I’m just so surprised at how much I enjoyed this! I don’t really enjoy contemporary romance, it’s just boring for me as I’m usually a sci-fi and fantasy gal, but this one really surprised me. Most likely I enjoyed it so much because of the stalking aspect and all the danger around that, it kept my interest a lot, but I also really enjoyed Briar as a character and seeing how she’s handled herself as a celebrity. This also touched on a lot of issue which are important to me, PTSD, anxiety, para social relationships, and how young girls and grown women are treated in the media. Most of those issues were handled well, Briar being such a perfect heroine to touch in those subjects with.

All of the men were lovely in their own way. Matt reminded me of my own husband a little, so I have a soft spot for him, plus we really delved into a deep part of his mind when dealing with his PTSD. I don’t think the PTSD was handled perfectly, however, as it’s such a serious thing that Kenta and Glen should have stepped up and stood up to Matt when he was behaving erratically and making poor choices. I know he’s kind of framed as like the “leader” of the group of men, but it was still irritating that the others didn’t take charge when he wasn’t doing the right thing.

Kenta and Glen were perfect, both adorable and sweet and filling the roles in the relationship which best suited them. I enjoyed Kenta’s calming presence, he really seemed in tune with everyone, not just Briar. Glen is like a big squishy marshmallow that I want to shower with love and affection, he deserves the world.

One of my favorite aspects of the book was getting a few chapters from the POV of the stalker, dubbed “X”. The minds of clinically insane people interest me a ton. It kept the book from getting too mushy and reminded the audience that there really was a serious threat out there to be concerned about. And he was an actual threat! He wasn’t just some hack, he was dangerous and it was shown which I personally really appreciate as I’ve read books where the bad guy is easily overcome by the hero and it makes it feel like all the talk about how bad they are was completely worthless.

Great read overall! I might actually look at the other books by this author, though I’m still hesitant to read more contemporary.