I was expecting a fun rom-com and then was almost reduced to tears because this was surprisingly profound? Like, this was deep and introspective and quite meaningful to me as an adult around the same age as these characters who has experienced way too many of the same doubts and worries.

This story takes place over the course of nearly a decade and covers pretty much every interaction between Natalie and Rob due solely to their individual best friends marrying each other. Every up and down these two have in their own spheres is either a warm hug or a gut punch that feels so real. Career successes and failures, dating and engagements and devastating splits, friendship break-ups, navigating life as your friends grow up around you and you're still stuck in a rut.

Don't get me wrong, this has a happy ending, but there's one hell of an emotional and heartwarming journey to take first of two characters pushing each other to be their best selves. Highly recommend for anyone who enjoys being destroyed by books like those of Emily Henry. And thank you so much to the publisher for the early copy!

The chemistry between the protagonists was palpable, evolving from initial animosity to a simmering tension that kept me eagerly turning pages. The supporting cast of friends adds an extra layer of comedy and sincerity, acting as both unwitting matchmakers and witnesses to the protagonists' evolving relationship.