Member Review

✨ A Heartwarming Journey of Love, Found Friendship, Family, and Second Chances ✨

I actually didn't expect it to be this good! At its core, the story is about Sarah Linwood as she navigates her life, questioning her sanity, and struggling with existential questions. She wants to be proud of herself, to have a life of her own, and to build something for herself—success or failure—without hiding in the shadow of her husband, Caleb Linwood.

When I first read about Sarah's life, I questioned what she was looking for. Her life seemed perfect as it was. She had her best friend, Win, her perfect husband, Caleb, and a life of luxury as Caleb managed his company while Sarah stayed at home, taking on the responsibilities of a housewife. However, as I delved deeper into Sarah's world, how she had to grow up so fast and marry Caleb at the very young age of 19. I found myself deeply resonating with her. She had every valid reason for wanting to create something for herself. Sarah might outwardly seem like she was "winning in life," but she was slowly losing herself over the years. She felt lost.

Meanwhile, Caleb was perfectly content with their routine and lifestyle. Having gotten used to Sarah being a housewife, managing the company, and living up to his father’s legacy, he was afraid to disrupt their lives. He was so focused on protecting Sarah at all costs that he forgot Sarah had her own life to live, her own dreams to pursue.

As Sarah and Caleb joined the "Reignite" camp led by Helen and Yvonne, I found myself completely immersed in their world, navigating through the forest, imagining the camp, and connecting with the other campers: Nina, Jai, Maggie, Phil, Henry, Kieran, Helen, Yvonne, and Libby. Through Helen and Yvonne's guidance, as they helped Sarah and Caleb work through their inner struggles and relationship issues, I found myself learning a lot from their journey. As someone who also struggles with existential crises and feelings of being lost, this book hit me right in the feels. Hannah Bonam-Young is such a talented author and has quickly become one of my favorites.

Out of the Woods by Hannah Bonam-Young is a powerful and heartwarming story that I wholeheartedly recommend to everyone, especially if you’re struggling to openly communicate your feelings with your family or spouse. This book feels like a self-help guide wrapped in fiction, offering valuable lessons while telling a compelling story.

A huge thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine for giving me the opportunity to experience this wonderful and amazing story of Sarah and Caleb.

✨ WHAT I LIKED:
📌 Win suggesting the camp
📌 Sarah and Caleb’s journey through adulthood
📌 Win and Sarah's platonic friendship
📌 Sarah finally opening up to Cyrus! (Wow! That was intense!)
📌 Michelle finally living for herself
📌 Bo and Caleb being supportive husbands to Win and Sarah

✨TROPES:
📌 Second Chances at Love
📌 Marriage in Trouble
📌 Healing and Growth
📌 Platonic Friendship
📌 Found Family
📌 A Moderate Amount of Spice

🖥️ GOODREADS REVIEW: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/7240239139

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