ARC Review - Heartache and hope by Jay McLean

Synopsis:

Ava Diaz needs saving.
She just doesn’t know it yet.
Just like she doesn’t know a thing about the boy she sits next to on the first day of senior year.
He thinks she’s a brat.
She thinks he’s entitled.
Maybe first impressions don’t always last… 
Because Connor Ledger’s about to save her.
He just doesn’t know why.

Review: 

Oh. My. Gosh.  

Emotions, I am drowning in them. 

Books like this are exactly why I read. To disappear into a story so gripping that reality disappears and those characters lives are playing out like a movie in your head. 

“When the world is at its darkest, that’s when the magic appears.”

Just like the title explains Ava and Connors story is so damn heartbreaking, but you can see the hope just lying underneath the surface.

“Love is not a noun. Love is something you do. Something you prove. Something you work hard to create. Love is not something that simply exists because you say it. Love is not a noun. Love is a verb.”

Both of them have so much going on and wind up becoming each other’s Anchor in a way. Their love story is really something special. 

While this book is heartbreaking, it’s so much more than that. It’s funny, it’s sad, it’s so damn hopeful. It's a story about struggle, growing up, family, first loves, and finding yourself. It is a beautiful crazy ride.

“Oh, my God, Connor!” I practically squeal. “You let me drool all over your weenus for three hours?!” He busts out a laugh. “Say it again but whisper it seductively.”

Ava’s life is such a chaotic mess and I truly felt for her and all that she has to endure at such a young age. All while growing up, discovering herself, and falling in love for the first time. She is so strong. 

And Connor with all of the pressure he has on him to succeed and trying to take on Ava’s troubles as well. 

These two together are magical. 

This book is really something special. It will dig deep into your heart and not let go. 

“It’s not stupid to hope, Ava. Sometimes hope is the only thing that gets us through to the next day.”

This is just one of those books that is a must read.  

It’s so tragically beautiful. It’s worth every moment, every laugh, and every tear. It will stick with you for a long time to come. 

Jay McLean did a wonderful job with this story and it will forever be a favorite of mine. ♥️


*I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*