The Proverbial Mr. Universe

By far, one of the greatest books to date. This book is inspirational to anyone with relationship or personal emotional feelings they may need help with. I feel privileged to have read this book! A definite must read!

When I first started started this book I liked the unique format with the letters to Olivia from Mr. Universe, but I had some difficulty getting into the story initially.

I am so glad I stuck with it and kept reading, though. Olivia's journey and self-improvement through the book was well written. Sometimes her choices were frustrating, but you do understand why she feels and thinks the way she does. 

Nick was my favorite character. He's romantic, smart, and thoughtful and I was so glad that his perspective was included. He isn't infallible, which I appreciated. Sometimes the hero/heroine of the story are made out too perfect and that can make it difficult to relate to them, but Maria La Serra did a great job writing well rounded characters.

There were a few parts of the narrative that I wish had been fleshed out more, especially near the end of the book, but this was a great debut novel.

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Such a lovely story. The characters are great and the dialogue is fun and realistic. The only thing I was expecting was a little more "sexy time" with the main characters, but other than, this is what a Romance should be. There are so many awful ones out there, it was refreshing to read one that didn't kill my brain cells.

Title: The Proverbial Mr. Universe
Author: Maria La Serra 
Rating: 3.5/5
Release Date: June 13, 2016
*Copy attained via Netgalley 

The Proverbial Mr. Universe was different than I expected, in a good way. This book navigated the complex relationships and complications of daily life amidst the serene and happy moments. Maria La Serra managed to create a love story with interesting characters who seemed real and not rash. The cast of characters and overall plot were all entertaining and I enjoyed how the pacing was not a little slower than a lot of other NA books. Combining self discovery, the weight of decision making, and uplifting philosophical letters threaded through the chapters, this novel will hook reader’s hearts.

Actual rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars 

Equally compelling and spellbinding.

“When you’re not looking for something and find something extraordinary, that’s serendipity.” 

Olivia Montiano felt like she's doing the biggest mistake of her life by marrying someone who only makes her life miserable, blaming her for everything that's not going well on their relationship — someone who didn't care for her and never have seen her worth. She has always been longing for Dario's attention, seeking validation. Only, what she got was the feeling of being insignificant. But when paths crossed and worlds collide her life change like it's written all over the stars.

Artist, Nick Montgomery had have gone through a lot and he wanted to make sure that he will never endure that kind of pain again or deliberately hurt himself for someone who's going to be like poison for his soul. His past relationship had a great impact on his career. Like a series of unfortunate events, Nick had another setback and lose his creative energy along the process.

That's when the universe took its time to put two stubborn persons together at the right time and on the right place, forcing them to meet half way. Will they ever find love back from each other?

“Anyhow, whatever it is…faith, destiny, or pure dumb luck, all I know is if I followed that thread, I am almost sure it will always lead me right back to you." 

I had so much feels for this book. It is a love where you don't need to dream about the idea of a parallel universe because it is what you have actually been craving for so long and finally you have it. You just have to own it.

I love how Olivia and Nick grew so much in the story. They've been like each other's missing puzzle piece. No matter what insecurities or insurmountable fears that hold them back together, they always know that they'll always​ find home. The way Nick thought about Olivia before his own everytime was really brave and inspiring. Something you would like to have on your own personal relationship — an ideal boyfriend a girl would have.

The characters and the story brought something new on the table without the clichés or same old tropes I read a million times. It's clever and refreshing with so much personality. Every single word in this book is relevant and you cannot throw any part of it. There's nothing in it that won't made you realize how the story voice your own internal thoughts and feelings. It will tweak something in the hearts of yours because every characters depicted truth and realism.

Supporting characters was built on a strong foundation that justify the essence of a good story line, a plot and character development. Everybody contributes something, from Dario or the homeless man sitting on the covered concrete ground to James or even Peter, the author made sure that everyone will pitch their parts and eventually leave a mark to readers. I like the familial bond that brought the characters together and how the author gave an important message on marriage.

“I want you to find someone who loves you and respects you. It doesn’t matter if he doesn’t have lots of money, as long as he is a hard worker...It doesn’t matter if he wears old clothes, but be sure he has a good heart underneath it.” 

Maria La Serra creatively woven words into this beautiful, lyrical story. It will make you believe that love is just around the corner. You just have to know what you're looking for and let the universe guide you for whoever's worth your way!

Trust me. After all, I am Mr. Universe.  

***Thank you NetGalley and Maria La Serra for providing me an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review!

**"The review of this has also been posted on goodreads.

Would love to read something by this author again! The story was well thought out and the characters were very likable!

The Proverbial Mr. Universe is the first book by Maria La Serra that I have ever read and I must say she is fantastic! I can hardly wait to read what she comes up with next!