This was a sophisticated romance novel with some heavy subject matter, but I loved all of it. A second-chance romance is a forever favorite of mine, and I was rooting for Ben and Kate from page 1. Loved the archaeology setting, the treatment of mental health, the older characters (with REAL bodies), and the supporting characters, as well as the masterful writing. Would definitely recommend!

they say don’t judge a book by its cover, but with this one, you kind of can! a BEAUTIFUL cover for a BEAUTIFUL book!

the cover is initially what drew me in, but after reading the description, i was sold. i’ve found myself commonly enjoying novels with older (in this story, they’re in their 40s) main characters. i think it has something to do with maturity and communication!

this is a kind of second chance situation — the characters both crushed on each other back in undergrad, but choices led them down different paths. now, they’re back together, and the circumstances are ripe for reconnection!

i liked how weald divided the book into four different parts; they’re paced very well. i don’t think this is like the best book i’ve ever read, or my favorite, but i think there’s something in kate’s and ben’s stories (both together and apart) that is very special.

i would recommend this book to anyone! i loved it, and struggled to put it down. once i was in the thick of it, i just wanted to finish it!

#netgalley

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⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5

“ I want to be the bone lady.”

Even If We’re Broken captivated me like no other book before; its unique blend of archaeological intrigue, romance, and sensitive exploration of mental health themes captured my heart from the very beginning. The author’s skillful depiction of deeper emotions resulted in numerous heartfelt scenes that lingered in my mind long after I turned the final page.

At the core of the narrative are the remarkable characters, Kate and Ben, whose journey I followed. Their struggles with anxiety and depression were portrayed with such authenticity that it felt as though I was experiencing their challenges alongside them. The raw honesty with which their mental health issues were depicted was both compelling and deeply moving.

The dynamics between Kate and Ben were a touching reflection of the complexities that arise when mental health issues intersect with love and companionship.

Throughout the novel, I found myself rooting for Kate and Ben.

So very grateful to be able to read the ARC for this debut novel. I can’t wait to get my hands on a paperback copy to be able to reread and annotate!