Scan barcode
A review by ocepub
The Best of All by Karla Sorensen
emotional
funny
inspiring
reflective
tense
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
5.0
"Best of All" by Karla Sorensen is an unexpected gem in the realm of sports romance, blending the complexities of relationships with poignant themes of grief and healing. From the outset, I was curious about Zoe and Liam's relationship, first thinking that he was Zoe's ex, which was one of the only things that I didn't love (but that's on me as well).
Sorensen's masterful portrayal of grief is one of the book's standout features. Through Zoe and Liam's perspectives, we are able to see how both characters navigates the labyrinth of emotions accompanying loss, showing how the two characters move through their lives coping, and struggling, with the grief of losing their best friends. The incorporation of therapy elements adds depth to Zoe's character, illustrating her journey of self-discovery and healing alongside Liam's, as well as the later inclusion of Liam's reaction to going to therapy along with Zoe and Mira.
Throughout the whole book, I found myself laughing, tearing up, and nearly throwing the book across the room. From Zoe and Mira's interactions, Mira repeating “mommy hold you” to the duck and watching Liam's reaction to that and struggling to know what to do, everything felt so genuine and authentic. Additionally, Sorensen adeptly weaves Liam's backstory and struggles into the fabric of the story, and it's done in way that doesn't seem fake, over the top, or trauma dumping.
The evolution of Zoe and Liam's relationship is both tender and tumultuous, marked by moments of vulnerability and catharsis. Liam's willingness to allow Zoe to reframe her questions hints at his desire to open up, mirroring his own compassionate nature as evidenced by his interactions with Mira.
Sorensen's writing shines brightest in capturing the nuances of hope and longing, particularly in the way that Zoe reacts to being called "love" - the way Sorensen describes Zoe's feelings seem like something out of a Taylor Swift song and it was a highlight of the book for me. The gradual revelation of Liam's deepening feelings adds layers of anticipation and emotion, culminating in a satisfying climax that reaffirms the transformative power of love.
Best of All" is a compelling exploration of love, loss, and redemption that will resonate with fans of sports romance and contemporary fiction alike. Sorensen's deft storytelling and nuanced character development make this a standout addition to the genre.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing an ARC of this book for review!
Sorensen's masterful portrayal of grief is one of the book's standout features. Through Zoe and Liam's perspectives, we are able to see how both characters navigates the labyrinth of emotions accompanying loss, showing how the two characters move through their lives coping, and struggling, with the grief of losing their best friends. The incorporation of therapy elements adds depth to Zoe's character, illustrating her journey of self-discovery and healing alongside Liam's, as well as the later inclusion of Liam's reaction to going to therapy along with Zoe and Mira.
Throughout the whole book, I found myself laughing, tearing up, and nearly throwing the book across the room. From Zoe and Mira's interactions, Mira repeating “mommy hold you” to the duck and watching Liam's reaction to that and struggling to know what to do, everything felt so genuine and authentic. Additionally, Sorensen adeptly weaves Liam's backstory and struggles into the fabric of the story, and it's done in way that doesn't seem fake, over the top, or trauma dumping.
The evolution of Zoe and Liam's relationship is both tender and tumultuous, marked by moments of vulnerability and catharsis. Liam's willingness to allow Zoe to reframe her questions hints at his desire to open up, mirroring his own compassionate nature as evidenced by his interactions with Mira.
Sorensen's writing shines brightest in capturing the nuances of hope and longing, particularly in the way that Zoe reacts to being called "love" - the way Sorensen describes Zoe's feelings seem like something out of a Taylor Swift song and it was a highlight of the book for me. The gradual revelation of Liam's deepening feelings adds layers of anticipation and emotion, culminating in a satisfying climax that reaffirms the transformative power of love.
Best of All" is a compelling exploration of love, loss, and redemption that will resonate with fans of sports romance and contemporary fiction alike. Sorensen's deft storytelling and nuanced character development make this a standout addition to the genre.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing an ARC of this book for review!