Things That Break Us - Michelle Heard

What. A. Story.  I almost don’t have words for how deeply this book hit me — in all the best ways. I went through so many emotions, and the pacing was so fast and fluid that the pages practically turned themselves.

Nova heads to LA at the request of her friend Rachel and moves in with her and her brother. These two have been her family and her foundation since childhood. Easton, Rachel’s older brother, has grown into a full-blown movie star, but at his core, he’s still the same protective, grounded person Nova once knew.

Rachel’s illness is the heartbreaking thread that brings everyone together in the beginning. Watching these three, plus Rachel’s daughter, navigate the fear, love, and devastation tied to her condition was emotional in a way that felt incredibly real.

Nova has faced her share of trauma, yet she constantly puts everyone else first. She fights to stay strong for the people she loves, even when she refuses to give herself that same grace. Her selflessness is both beautiful and painful.

Easton is the definition of devoted. His relationship with Rachel is so full of love and respect, and seeing a man openly express emotion, and not shy away from it, was refreshing and powerful.

But the pull between Nova and Easton is the shining star of this book. Amid all the heartbreak surrounding Rachel, their connection brings hope. They each carry their own wounds and struggles, but together they learn how to face them instead of running.  It’s the sweetest kind of slow burn, one that gives them space to handle the pain of what’s happening with Rachel while also slowly opening up to each other. 

You walked back into my life and laid claim to my heart with your shy smiles and selfless nature.

Thank you Montlake for providing this book for review consideration via NetGallery. All opinions are my own.