kaylee ♡'s Reviews > Love Redesigned

5 ★

“Turns out I’d rather build a home with you than a thousand houses by myself.”

this book was absolutely adorable and I was OBSESSED from the very beginning. the characters? perfect. the plot? stunning. me? addicted.

the story revolves around Dahlia and Julian, two childhood frenemies turned lovers. their banter was so fun and cute, from the playful comments to the silly dangerous and scandalous pranks. after her rancid and toxic asf ex breaks off their engagement, Dahlia returns home to her family and Julian. reeling from not only the breakup, but also the horrible news she's gotten with it, Dahlia navigates through depression, anxiety, grief, and loss of self. Julian, still struggling with the grief of losing his father, navigates the decisions he's made in the past that leave him with regret. back together again, both Dahlia and Julian find solace and love with each other and are transformed by the end of it.

｡･:*˚:✧｡ Dahlia Muñoz
“Sorry. The feminism left my body the moment you mentioned spiders.”

Dahlia, oh Dahlia. I fell in love with her at the very beginning (just like Julian). she’s hilarious; I laughed a lot throughout the book, and a lot of it was because of her. her strength and resilience were so admirable, and as someone who struggles with chronic anxiety, I related to her on so many levels. watching as she navigates her anxiety and depression while fighting her overthinking and negative self-talk tendencies was honestly so healing in a way. she goes through so much but still stays devoted to her family and those she loves while also respecting her own boundaries. personally, while I thought her character arc was done well, there were times when I got a bit annoyed with her (but only briefly and at the end). I understood her hesitancy and reluctance to be with Julian, especially because of their past and the deep-rooted trauma that exists because of her trash ex. But after all was said and done, it almost felt like she loved him less than he loved her (if that makes sense).

｡･:*˚:✧｡ Julian Lopez
“To those whose love language is words of affirmation. Your praise kink is safe with me (and Julian Lopez).”

every time I think I’ve read a book featuring the best book man, I read another that makes me eat my words. But yk what, I think Julian might actually be the best book man. and I’m gonna be so real for a second, and say that this dedication alone was enough to have me convinced it was over for me. this man had me giggling and kicking my feet throughout the entire book. he was so enraptured and devoted to Dahlia, which was proven throughout the book (I have been thinking about his reveal at the end since I finished it and get so giddy every time). Julian is the epitome of a man who’s confident in himself and his masculinity. he’s vulnerable, he’s emotional, he doesn’t ignore his feelings—when he had his moment in his father’s woodshop, I sobbed like a baby and swooned at the same time—and is overall just so emotionally intelligent. I adore him. his devotion and love for Dahlia is literally the standard, and he proves that you shouldn’t settle for less fr.

｡･:*˚:✧｡ Julian and Dahlia
“We’re the real deal, sweetheart, and I’m done letting you believe anything else.”

I was obsessed with everything about Julian and Dahlia. their banter, chemistry, and sexual tension could literally be felt through the pages. Julian worships the ground she walks on, and she supports and validates him in every way. I will say (and as I mentioned before), it almost felt like Julian was doing more than Dahlia was in their relationship. which, of course, I understand Dahlia’s feelings and perspective, but progress is not made without change, and that requires effort. other than that, and the page count for this book I didn’t have any other qualms.

｡･:*˚:✧｡ The Side Characters

I ADORED Julian and Dahlia’s families. it’s so obvious they all love and respect each other so much, and they were so fun to read about. the references to the Kane family were so fun too, and there was a bonus chapter in my book of Julian meeting Declan and Iris which was SO CUTE. and Rafa??? the fact that we get a second book with him and Ellie and Nico! I cannot wait!!

guys this book was just so so good. I need me a Julian Lopez asap.

｡･:*˚:✧｡ More Quotes I Loved

“Whatever it is, I’ll fix it. Whoever hurt her, I’ll ruin them. And whenever she needs someone to lean on, I will be there.”

“I know you, which is all that matters.”

“If you have to change yourself to fit someone’s ideal version of you, then that’s not love.”

“I don’t want you to be bored here.
Why?
Because I want to give you a hundred different reasons to stay.”

“I’m falling in love with you, Dahlia.”

“Her smile rivals the brightest gem, and I’ll be damned if anyone threatens her happiness again. She is more valuable to me than anything else, and it’s only a matter of time before she realizes that. And it’s my job to help get her there.”

“Dahlia?
Yeah?
Te amo.”

“Julian?
Yes?
Yo también te amo.”

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i need me a julian rn 🫦 rtc 🤭

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finally starting this beauty 🤭 lauren i am READY