Heather K (dentist in my spare time)'s Reviews > The One You Fight For

*3.5 stars*

The One You Fight For was my first read by Roni Loren, and whew, what an angst-fest. But in a good way, I think.

First of all, that cover is PERFECT. So often we get a cover that doesn't reflect the characters, and I think this one nailed it. Bonus points for that.

I was a little... no, very nervous about reading a story about a school shooting as that's something that occupies my anxious-mom-brain daily. However, I was also really intrigued.

I think the author did a great job handling the way each person processed their loss and grief and made it seem realistic. It felt sensitive and considerate, and I liked that aspect of the story. Each person, even the side characters, had their own unique reaction to the tragedy, and I think the author treated those respectfully.

I also really felt for each of the MCs and what they were going through. Though the subject matter was really dark and each MC was in a lot of emotional pain, I was still able to get through the story without getting bogged down by negativity. I liked that.

What I didn't enjoy was the DRAMA. Of course there is going to be drama- I mean, how could there not be with the backstory of these two characters, but the drama in this book felt artificial. I didn't love that. I hate manufactured-feeling pain and angst. Also, while I liked the two MCs as a couple, I didn't get that insane chemistry that I want in a romance.

I think the author did a nice job with two unique, intellectual characters in some extraordinary circumstances. The pace and the plot grabbed me, and though the couple wasn't magnetic, I think the story was successful overall.

*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*

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