A review by theinstabookworm
Still Beating by Jennifer Hartmann

dark emotional sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

This dark romance is not dark in a violent kind of way, although there definitely is violence, but more in a sad way. The before, during, and after the kidnapping made for a very well-rounded story when normally the book ends when the kidnapped are freed. As a reader you get to see the effects the kidnapping had on both MCs emotionally, mentally, and physically and how their trauma bonded them. I also appreciated the accurate representation of family and friends not understanding the trauma and why Cora and Dean couldn't move on despite time passing, even if it was frustrating to read at times. I will say that I hated Mandy and thought she was the most selfish and insensitive person. She showed no empathy or compassion for her sister or her fiancé and only cared about herself. Again, though, she didn't understand why Dean couldn't move past what he had been through, which is also sometimes accurate of loved ones of those who have experienced trauma. Know going into this that it's a very heavy read and be mindful of trigger warnings.
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