This book tackled some pretty big topics such as anxiety, body image issues, and self esteem issues. With that being said, I think that these topic were portrayed really well. I especially liked how the characters were not magically "cured" but more learned to accept themselves.

Ethan is the ultimate romance blueprint. I can even get over the fact that he is blonde simply because he knows how to treat a lady right. If I were to describe what I want in a partner, it would be Ethan. He is the definition of the "he fell first and harder trope." I love his relationship to Maya. Even when she hurt him, which I am not condoning, He would still drop everything to make her feel even an ounce better. He is a giver, both in the bedroom and not ;). His journey from the book was really beautiful. Although Maya helped him in his confidence and figuring stuff out, ultimately it was he who made it happen. I really appreciate that at the end he also realized that while life without her would be unimaginable, the progress he made would continue on.

Maya is a firecracker but such a misunderstood character. She is seen as this gorgeous girl with so much confidence and gravitas. in reality, she has her own struggles and confidence issues. Her main source of contention is trying to live up to her parents expectations while also pursuing her passions. She has never stood up to them and it is not until Ethan is in her life that she realizes that they are holding her back from true happiness. I really appreciated how her family came around in the end to accept her and her choices.

Ethan and Maya helped each other on their journeys and made one another better people. Maya provided the words of affirmation that Ethan was seeking and Ethan gave Maya the constant support and encouragement to pursue her dreams. I loved how he was always there for her, starting when they were still friends 5 years prior to the current story.

I really enjoyed getting glimpses from the past of these two. It provided context to the foundation of their relationship which started as a friendship. If we had not gotten that then I don't think the reader would have felt as strongly and passionate for these two. The passion, the spice and the plot were all on point. it was also great to see some familiar faces from book 1. I have a strong feeling who and what book 3 will be about and I am so excited!

Thank you to the author and publisher for an eARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.