For my first read of 2025, it was a decent start. I think I would have liked this book more if I hadn’t read the prior ones because they were much stronger and the chemistry between those characters were much more palpable. 

I loved Asher but was torn on Marisa. She came off as an independent woman who lives on her own terms. But that didn’t ring true with how she was devastated about being called names because of Reese.

I know I will be in the minority but I didn’t see Reese as a terrible guy. He was definitely flawed but I had a lot of issues with just how little Risa actually knew of Reese. Plus, I actually liked the adoption idea. 

Asher was mouthy but he walked that walk. He was consistently real, considerate and supportive. He was a really good character. Most of my enjoyment was directly related to his banter with Risa.

The book was at least 100 pages too long. It still didn’t address crucial foundation issues like Marisa and Reese’s short but intense relationship. I would have liked more background on that. I found Reese compelling as an anti-hero.