Brittainy Cherry writes a second chance at love again romance that is emotional, heartbreaking, and uplifting. If You Stayed is about Kierra Hughes, a therapist, and Gabriel Sinclair, an architect. Kierra is stuck in a loveless marriage to her husband Henry but stays for their daughter Ava. When Henry hires Gabriel as the head architect to build their new smart home, Kierra is reminded of the childhood she shared with Gabriel when she and Gabriel were friends, then lovers, then nothing after an accident forced her to leave everything she loved behind. Gabriel lost his memory as a result of the accident and doesn’t remember Kierra but feels a familiar connection to her. As Kierra struggles with her unresolved feelings and attraction to Gabriel, she has to choose whether or not to act on it or leave it behind again.
 
This book was tenderly written with such care and compassion. Kierra and Gabriel’s love story was gratifying and comforting. Kierra is a fighter, and her vulnerability and strength are so tragic yet promising. Their love for each other never wavered despite Gabriel’s memory loss and the years they have lost together. This was an evocative reading experience, and Brittainy did such an exceptional job writing a poignant and impactful story, and I can’t wait to read more from Brittainy.

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review!

Brittainy Cherry really knows how to write a book that tugs at the heartstrings! This book is up there with all of my other favourites from her. I was so invested in Kierra and Gabriel's love story that I devoured it. This story covers some heavy themes which made me feel for the characters while they were going through their trials. The only thing missing for me was seeing more of Kierra and Gabriel's relationship in the present.

Overall, this was a really good book and worth a read.

Thank you to Brittainy Cherry, the publisher and NetGalley for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Oh, wow! What a story! This was deeply engaging and moving. It's raw and emotional and I just adored it. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC. Cherry is a talented and crafty writer. I want more!