Review: 4.5 Stars
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 05 29, 2014
College is a time of change.  A time to re-invent yourself, maybe to be more open and friendly, maybe to be more studious and serious.  For Ashley it is her time to come into her own.  To let go of her mean girl persona, but can she actually do it? She has no friends, honestly has no idea how to even be a friend.  Her past is nipping at her heels- an overbearing distant father, an assault that she can’t forget and a mother that she misses everyday. Ashley is truly so innocent at times as she navigates her way.How was HG able to make me love Ashley?!?!?  And Zeke is just so wonderful, complex and funny.  Love the alpha caveman that surprises him every time it rears its jealous head! He has found his home and heart with Ashley, yet realizes she has a lot of healing to do.  Will she run when his secret is told?Ashley has so many false starts as her true self.  Fortunately Mac- room mate extraordinaire- is there to be exactly what Ashley needs, a friend.  No secret agenda, no ulterior motive.  Even while Ashley reverts to her old ways she is amazed that Mac remains available.  Mac’s honesty and genuine heart are beautiful.  While I believe that Mac has some deep down pain and hurt she is the voice of reason that helps to center Ashley when she spins and tries to run away.Completely understand how the group of friends Mac and Ashley surround themselves with are guys.  They don’t play the games that girls often do.  Create a small family together.  I believe Ryanne will be a good fit.There is no huge explosive climax to this story- more like subtle flashes. Many truths come out and hearts and minds are opened.  Lots of growing and forgiveness, but also some letting go- of the bad, the pain and the past. This book gives more meaning to the phrase “your past does not define you”. Genuine friendship that grew into a strong and healing love for both Ashley and Zeke…and can’t forget Lara.