Review: A powerful and romantic novella
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 10 1, 2013
I just finished reading the Before Lucky novella by J.S. Cooper and it has left me totally astounded.  I knew going into this read that it would be good, but I had no idea how thought provoking and pragmatic it would be.Just listen to this: The grief never goes away, but sometimes it hides out waiting to be found.  Grief is tricky like that.  It likes to play games.  It likes you to think that it's gone.  But then when it's found and the guilt hits you once again, it is even more unforgiving, because it makes you think: how could I have forgotten?  For even one second?I had to go back and keep re-reading this paragraph because it  literally took my breath away.  It is such an elegant turn of phrase.  This really puts you in Zane's mindset and sets the tone for the rest of the book.I loved reading about how Zane and Lucky first met, especially from Zane's POV.  Even as he struggles with his feelings towards Lucky their chemistry is undeniable"I felt as if I had been electrocuted.  That's how powerful the connection was."This may be a shorter read but the writing and plot are outstanding.  Ms. Cooper has written these amazing characters that are  intelligent, witty, and full of life.  She puts words into Lucky's mouth that break your heart and make you fall in love.  It was fascinating to get inside Lucky's mindset and view falling in love for the first time through his eyes.I adored this book. It just goes to prove that you do not need a 500 page juggernaut to express all that the author has revealed in this novella.  I really want to read more about Noah and cannot wait for his book to be released.  I whole heartedly give this story a five out of five stars.