A review by risseandshine
Restore Me by J.L. Seegars

emotional medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Twelve years ago, Dominic Alexander met the woman of his dreams. Now, she’s the widow of his late best friend.

Dominic grew up with an abusive father, and he believes the apple doesn’t fall too far from the tree. Sloane has a very similar story, having a mother who cares more about appearances than the wellbeing of her own daughter. Despite their seemingly identical backgrounds, they still didn’t see eye-to-eye. Hate defined their relationship for so long, but all of that changes when an agreement to sate bodily desires allows for deep feelings to develop and longtime secrets to come to the surface.

This was a powerful love story between two people who think they're only capable of being hurt and causing hurt. This story was so raw and unafraid to rip its readers open with heavy emotion. It was painful, yet it brought healing at the same time.

The best part of this book, in my opinion, is the way Dominic loved Sloane; he brought the swoon and the spice, but he did all of that with so much respect for Sloane’s relationship with his best friend. Sloane was the same way; she recognized and kept her late husband’s place in her heart while she loved Dominic with all her being. 

It’s also worth highlighting how incredibly well-written this book is. This author is gifted with the ability to create lush and vivid imagery with lyrical writing that sucks you in and makes you feel every emotion possible.

Another major aspect of this book is the intense angst. If you’re looking for a book that will make you chuck your Kindle out the window because of it, then look no further. While I’m one to gravitate towards angsty books, I found this particular one a little bit too much. I wasn’t a fan of the push and pull right at the end where the big sigh of relief in the story was supposed to take place. Because the relief came so late, the pacing consequently felt off. The ending was very sweet and romantic, but I think things happened way too soon for the main characters.

That being said, I think this was a great entry from an up-and-coming voice in the contemporary romance world. I’m so thankful that I got to experience this author’s writing prowess, and I’m definitely interested in reading more!

tw: death of spouse, car accident, grief, miscarriage
 
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