LitPick Review
The story follows Piper as she is picking up the pieces of her shattered life from a massive breakup two years prior to the start of the story. James has been on autopilot since his mom died 18 months ago. He goes to work, visits his dad, and the cycle repeats. A chance encounter with Piper on the train upends both of their lives. Piper is drawn to James, but he is the type of guy that can undo all of the hard work she's done to rebuild her life. James can't stop thinking about Piper, already messing up the steady algorithm that keeps his life in check and emotions locked away. As they get to know each other on their train rides, James suggests a fake marriage so that Piper can be under his commuter plan at work. It's a very harebrained idea, but sometimes fate brings people together for better or worse.
Opinion:
I really loved reading this book. It was a very cute read. Seeing their romance unfold was fantastic. I also loved the anxiety representation and discussions around grief. The author offered some very poignant insights about grief that resonated with me. The slow burn nature of their romance was so delicious. When they finally get together, it made all the angst so worth it. I have found a new favorite romance author in Mallory Thomas. The writing was beautiful from beginning to end. I could not put this book down. I am excited to read this author's backlist and the next story following the best friends of the main couple. Please pick this up if you want a heartwarming but satisfying romance.
