★★★★★ 2
Underdeveloped Debut
Format: Kindle
Chandler’s debut novel started out as an engaging read, though the storyline leaned heavily on a trope that is used too frequently. The protagonists, Juliette and Luca, had great chemistry as rivals. However, as the plot developed and the supernatural twist was revealed (which felt akin to the film In Time, but only with respect to the tattoos), both lost their appeal. Luca seemed to lack depth, despite the fact that she was supposed to be the more emotional and sensitive one. Juliette was insufferable at times and I did not believe the growth she underwent in order to find her way back to Luca. The supporting characters were forgettable and their interactions with Juliette and Luca did nothing to save the characterization flaws. The conflict between Juliette and Luca seemed forced towards the middle and end too, as Luca put in more effort into their relationship than Juliette did. By the end of the novel, unfortunately, my eyes reverted to skimming the pages, so I could finish it faster.
Please note that while I found fault with most elements of the novel, it overall was not an unpleasant read— just very dull. Thank you to NetGalley and Atria, as I was invited to read this novel after receiving an e-mail from Atria Books.
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Reviewed in the United States on June 12, 2025
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