I admit it, before this book I had never read a Nicholas Sparks novel before. I think partly because I’ve heard such amazing things about them I was a bit daunted, crazy I know! He has written so many books that people rave about, it’s high time my mistake was corrected, and what better way to start than read the latest of his books that have movie adaptions.  

This book did not disappoint at all. Nicholas Sparks’ writing style is simply beautiful; it makes you feel everything that he needs you to feel. The perfect blend of descriptive scene setting and dialogue.  Once I started this I could not put down, it was quite an intense, emotional book.  

You read the book through both Dawson and Amanda’s perspective; both characters are captivating. I am a teeny tiny bit in love with Dawson, I lie – I am totally head over heels in love with Dawson. He is handsome, rugged and mysterious, yet has a sensitive side too, everything you would want in a man. He is from a bad family who is constantly in and out of jail, it was tough reading about his youth because of this.  

Amanda, Dawson’s one and only love is adorable, she has a lot on, making it hard for her to do what you’re shouting at her to do, I completely got how she felt seemingly overwhelmed with everything. Dawson and Amanda’s reunion 24 years after they broke up is something magical; their chemistry is mind blowing.  

However, it’s not as mind blowing as the last third of the book. While I saw the very end coming several chapters beforehand, the idea and the execution was jaw dropping. I didn’t know whether to be happy or sad, smile or cry, no idea, I was lost. It is heartbreakingly sad, but touching at the same time. Ideally you want a different outcome, but life isn’t always perfect so you have to make the most of it, and this book shows that perfectly.  

Published by: Sphere
Gratefully received from the Publisher for review.  

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