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In this book, readers meet the driven and goal-oriented Chiffon, who lands a new position and a condo on the North Shore. As Chiffon's enjoying her new career, new condo, and time with her best friend since childhood, Tam, an unexpected phone call from her ex, Joshua, jars her world. At first, Chiffon fears Joshua's intentions, but she slowly finds herself entering his world again. Meanwhile, readers enter a game where the rules of attraction begin playing out, and Chiffon soon finds herself in the middle of not only her game but also Tam's. At times, Chiffon must choose, and her choices are made even more difficult when she begins to recognize her attraction to Isaac, the VP of Mergers and Acquisitions at the company where she works. As Chiffon and Tam's friendship begins to crumble and Chiffon's relationship with Joshua reshapes, readers are treated to intense romances and dramas worthy of the big screen.
Dialogue-driven and fast-paced, this book challenges one to examine the facets of healthy and unhealthy relationships. As the narrative reveals more and more about Joshua, his controlling nature becomes more apparent. Chiffon's submission and resistance to this aspect of Joshua's personality ultimately drives the dramatic sways in this novel. However, the book also questions and examines why people stay in toxic relationships despite the lasting losses and consequences. In addition, the story is a unique examination of jealousy. Readers initially encounter this in the way Joshua responds to Chiffon's other relationships, as well as his obsession with her and his inability to let her live her own life. However, it becomes more obvious when Chiffon begins practicing self-awareness and examining her reaction to Isaac's relationship with Tam.
Of course, the novel's surprises do not end there. As the plot progresses, more and more about Chiffon's life comes to light. Readers, at first, might balk at the startling family revelation that the book holds towards the end. Nonetheless, coupled with the suspense of other events, like the progression of Chiffon and Joshua's relationship, the familial revelations work together to create even more emotion throughout the book, elevating it above the romance genre so that the novel stands as an examination of human psychology and sociology. Another unique feature that adds to the book's critical exploration of these fields of study is the inclusion of thought-provoking discussion questions. Featured at the book's end, these challenge readers to think beyond what they have read and examine why they have the interpretations about certain characters, situations, and motivations that they do.
Romance fans will appreciate this book for its modern, sweeping drama. Because of its accessibility, those new to the romance genre will also find it a page-turner. Those readers who enjoy surprising twists in their plots will also have something to look forward to. It is definitely a book for anyone looking for a happy ending to add to their reading lists. Readers of books like The June Bug Catcher will appreciate this tale for its twists, turns, and subtle humor that emerges from somewhat dark circumstances.