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The Re-Do List
Listening Length: 10 hours and 50 minutes
What would you do with a second chance at your first time? Following a bad breakup, Willow Lewis tackles a re-do list with the help of her brother’s best friend in this sweet and sexy new romance.
Willow experienced all her big firsts with her high school sweetheart. Now, reeling from their very public breakup, she wants to get a re-do on those important moments. While dog-sitting for her brother during his deployment, she has a chance to start over and spending time with his best friend gives her the confidence to start checking items off her “Re-Do list.”
Deacon promised his best friend two things when Cruz left for a deployment: that he’d look out for Willow, and that he’d keep his hands off Cruz’s baby sister. “Operation Re-Do” is innocent enough at first: Deacon likes Willow and he’s willing to help her out any way he can. But when the list of firsts turns from a first dance to first kisses and more, Deacon can’t deny the connection he feels to Willow.
As Deacon’s and Willow’s firsts turn to seconds, thirds, and fourths, this pair can’t get enough of each other—and they support each other through new challenges. But they are both aware there’s an end date to Willow’s time in town… and even if she were to stay, Deacon doesn’t know how to choose between his loyalty to his closest friend and the woman he’s fallen in love with. With no more romantic moments on her list for them to re-do, can these two still find a way to stay together?
What would you do with a second chance at your first time? Following a bad breakup, Willow Lewis tackles a re-do list with the help of her brother’s best friend in this sweet and sexy new romance.
Willow experienced all her big firsts with her high school sweetheart. Now, reeling from their very public breakup, she wants to get a re-do on those important moments. While dog-sitting for her brother during his deployment, she has a chance to start over and spending time with his best friend gives her the confidence to start checking items off her “Re-Do list.”
Deacon promised his best friend two things when Cruz left for a deployment: that he’d look out for Willow, and that he’d keep his hands off Cruz’s baby sister. “Operation Re-Do” is innocent enough at first: Deacon likes Willow and he’s willing to help her out any way he can. But when the list of firsts turns from a first dance to first kisses and more, Deacon can’t deny the connection he feels to Willow.
As Deacon’s and Willow’s firsts turn to seconds, thirds, and fourths, this pair can’t get enough of each other—and they support each other through new challenges. But they are both aware there’s an end date to Willow’s time in town… and even if she were to stay, Deacon doesn’t know how to choose between his loyalty to his closest friend and the woman he’s fallen in love with. With no more romantic moments on her list for them to re-do, can these two still find a way to stay together?
11 pages, Audible Audio
First published January 27, 2026
640 people are currently reading
25758 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 418 reviews
December 11, 2025
REVIEW TO COME💞😍😍💞!!!!!!!
Oh, I just loved this book so much😍😍😭😭!!!!!!!
Oh, I just loved this book so much😍😍😭😭!!!!!!!
December 31, 2025
I finished this one with that soft, content feeling you get after a cozy afternoon read. 😌😌
At its heart, this story is about second chances—not the dramatic, life-altering kind, but the quiet, personal ones. A woman licking her wounds after a very public breakup. A list meant to reclaim moments that once felt stolen or wasted. And a man who steps in not to fix her, but to stand beside her while she figures herself out.
The dynamic between Willow and Deacon was undeniably sweet. Deacon’s steady, supportive presence was probably my favorite part of the book. He encourages her without pushing, protects without smothering, and helps her step out of her comfort zone in ways that feel genuinely caring rather than performative. 🫶🏼🫶🏼 Their moments together range from tender to steamy. And Willow’s emotions growth was satisfying to watch unfold. By the end, she’s more confident, more self-assured, and finally choosing herself (which honestly might’ve been the strongest takeaway for me).
One thing I did wish had been explored more was Willow’s body representation. From the cover and a few scattered mentions, it’s clear she’s meant to be curvy, but it stays very surface-level. There was so much opportunity to weave that into her self-image, her confidence journey, and even her romantic experiences, and it felt like a missed chance to add depth to her character which made me a little disappointed. 😔
Overall, this was a genuinely cute and easy read. Perfect if you want something comforting, romantic, and low-stress. It’s not extraordinary, but it’s not forgettable in a bad way either. Just one of those books you enjoy in the moment and move on from with a small smile. I’d recommend it if you’re in the mood for something sweet and simple… just don’t go in expecting fireworks.
-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-favorite quotes-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-
"You're one of my people."
He squeezed his fingers with mine. "And I take care of
my people."
“I’d never fully understood the expression of melting into a kiss. I'd read it hundreds of times in romance novels, but I'd never felt it until I sank against him, losing track of where his body ended and mine began.”
“She was beautiful, like the kind of beautiful that made my heart rate speed up in her presence.”
“Willow had become like oxygen to me,”
"When I tell you that you're beautiful, it's not because I'm just realizing it. It's because it bears repeating."
-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-
things to know about the book ↓
🐕 age gap (10 years)
🐕 brother’s best friend
🐕 second chances
🐕 friends → lovers
🐕 self discovery
🐕 dual POV
A huge thank you to Netgalley, Berkley Publishing Group, and Denise Williams for allowing me to read this arc. These are all my honest opinions in this review.
spice rating:【 🔥🔥🔥 】
swearing: yes
⸻⸻⸻
・❥・⁀➷ pre-read
cutie cover 🐶 can’t wait for this! i have a feeling the fmc is going to rediscover some confidence so i’m so excited for that🤞🏼
At its heart, this story is about second chances—not the dramatic, life-altering kind, but the quiet, personal ones. A woman licking her wounds after a very public breakup. A list meant to reclaim moments that once felt stolen or wasted. And a man who steps in not to fix her, but to stand beside her while she figures herself out.
The dynamic between Willow and Deacon was undeniably sweet. Deacon’s steady, supportive presence was probably my favorite part of the book. He encourages her without pushing, protects without smothering, and helps her step out of her comfort zone in ways that feel genuinely caring rather than performative. 🫶🏼🫶🏼 Their moments together range from tender to steamy. And Willow’s emotions growth was satisfying to watch unfold. By the end, she’s more confident, more self-assured, and finally choosing herself (which honestly might’ve been the strongest takeaway for me).
One thing I did wish had been explored more was Willow’s body representation. From the cover and a few scattered mentions, it’s clear she’s meant to be curvy, but it stays very surface-level. There was so much opportunity to weave that into her self-image, her confidence journey, and even her romantic experiences, and it felt like a missed chance to add depth to her character which made me a little disappointed. 😔
Overall, this was a genuinely cute and easy read. Perfect if you want something comforting, romantic, and low-stress. It’s not extraordinary, but it’s not forgettable in a bad way either. Just one of those books you enjoy in the moment and move on from with a small smile. I’d recommend it if you’re in the mood for something sweet and simple… just don’t go in expecting fireworks.
-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-favorite quotes-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-
"You're one of my people."
He squeezed his fingers with mine. "And I take care of
my people."
“I’d never fully understood the expression of melting into a kiss. I'd read it hundreds of times in romance novels, but I'd never felt it until I sank against him, losing track of where his body ended and mine began.”
“She was beautiful, like the kind of beautiful that made my heart rate speed up in her presence.”
“Willow had become like oxygen to me,”
"When I tell you that you're beautiful, it's not because I'm just realizing it. It's because it bears repeating."
-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-
things to know about the book ↓
🐕 age gap (10 years)
🐕 brother’s best friend
🐕 second chances
🐕 friends → lovers
🐕 self discovery
🐕 dual POV
A huge thank you to Netgalley, Berkley Publishing Group, and Denise Williams for allowing me to read this arc. These are all my honest opinions in this review.
spice rating:【 🔥🔥🔥 】
swearing: yes
⸻⸻⸻
・❥・⁀➷ pre-read
cutie cover 🐶 can’t wait for this! i have a feeling the fmc is going to rediscover some confidence so i’m so excited for that🤞🏼
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.25 stars
First, I’d like to say, I love Denise Williams' writing. I think she’s a strong writer, and based on the cover, I was excited to read this book. For some reason, it took me weeks to get through this. I just never connected/couldn’t get into it. I never felt that spark between Willow and Deacon, though I enjoyed them both as individual characters. It’s one of those stories I can’t tell if it’s a me thing or if it’s the book, but it was just an okay read for me.
First, I’d like to say, I love Denise Williams' writing. I think she’s a strong writer, and based on the cover, I was excited to read this book. For some reason, it took me weeks to get through this. I just never connected/couldn’t get into it. I never felt that spark between Willow and Deacon, though I enjoyed them both as individual characters. It’s one of those stories I can’t tell if it’s a me thing or if it’s the book, but it was just an okay read for me.
October 5, 2025
2.6 ˖⁺‧✮
I just couldn’t get into this book and how it was written…
The whole idea was veryyy promising and interesting. The girl became a meme on the internet and now she wants to restart her life. Her brother’s best friend is like right there, so they start this whole re-do list.
The first chapters were so fun. I truly liked them and was curious about the rest, however, by 60% I lost all of the interest.
✮ Characters had 0 chemistry. I couldn’t feel anything between them. It mostly seemed like a freshman high schooler had a crush on a senior. The dynamic felt really wrong. Also, they didn’t seem to have anything in common or anything to talk about outside of sex or re-do list. I felt like Willow wanted Deacon just because he was there… she’s only been with one person before and wanted to experiment, so of course she’s go for an experiment guy.
✮ The whole meme thing just disappeared out of nowhere. I don’t understand how Willow was so upset with the whole situation becoming public but out of nowhere she just forgot about it. She’s never even mentioned it again.
✮ Brother situation at 80% was so weirdly written. I still don’t understand the purpose of it?
From a positive perspective, I really like Willow and her story of starting over. Her list was a great idea but choosing Deacon was definitely a mistake
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for an arc.
I just couldn’t get into this book and how it was written…
The whole idea was veryyy promising and interesting. The girl became a meme on the internet and now she wants to restart her life. Her brother’s best friend is like right there, so they start this whole re-do list.
The first chapters were so fun. I truly liked them and was curious about the rest, however, by 60% I lost all of the interest.
✮ Characters had 0 chemistry. I couldn’t feel anything between them. It mostly seemed like a freshman high schooler had a crush on a senior. The dynamic felt really wrong. Also, they didn’t seem to have anything in common or anything to talk about outside of sex or re-do list. I felt like Willow wanted Deacon just because he was there… she’s only been with one person before and wanted to experiment, so of course she’s go for an experiment guy.
✮ The whole meme thing just disappeared out of nowhere. I don’t understand how Willow was so upset with the whole situation becoming public but out of nowhere she just forgot about it. She’s never even mentioned it again.
✮ Brother situation at 80% was so weirdly written. I still don’t understand the purpose of it?
From a positive perspective, I really like Willow and her story of starting over. Her list was a great idea but choosing Deacon was definitely a mistake
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for an arc.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book had me crying at the dedication and then I cried again at the author’s note. Within the first chapter I wanted to reach into the book, grab the FMC, and give her a giant hug. I was laughing out loud pretty much non-stop throughout the book!
This is my first book by this author and it won’t be my last! It was such a fun read with plenty of emotional depth, great banter, and top notch tension.
Whats to love…
- brother’s best friend
- Veteran MMC, who is also a playboy
- Re-do (bucket) list
- laugh out loud funny
- banter!
- the tension!
- great emotional depth
- found family
What might not work for some…
- The MMC is a veteran, and the author’s note indicates that there are brief references to injury during battle, and yes that particular scene is brief but his injury, military service, and the effects related to it are a central theme for the character. This is something I typically avoid in books due to my own military related traumas. I was able to continue and finish the book but if you’re someone who needs to avoid this topic please proceed with care if you decide to pick up the book.
| IG | TikTok |
Thank you Berkley for the gifted book. All opinions are my own.
This is my first book by this author and it won’t be my last! It was such a fun read with plenty of emotional depth, great banter, and top notch tension.
Whats to love…
- brother’s best friend
- Veteran MMC, who is also a playboy
- Re-do (bucket) list
- laugh out loud funny
- banter!
- the tension!
- great emotional depth
- found family
What might not work for some…
- The MMC is a veteran, and the author’s note indicates that there are brief references to injury during battle, and yes that particular scene is brief but his injury, military service, and the effects related to it are a central theme for the character. This is something I typically avoid in books due to my own military related traumas. I was able to continue and finish the book but if you’re someone who needs to avoid this topic please proceed with care if you decide to pick up the book.
| IG | TikTok |
Thank you Berkley for the gifted book. All opinions are my own.
February 8, 2026
The CUTEST brother’s best friend romance book. I loved that she was “off limits” but not in a gross brotherly why-is-he-friends-with-him-if-he-wouldn’t-like-him-dating-his-sister way!!
This is a story about finding your strength. About messy people finding themselves and each other after a loss.
10/10 execution on the reformed playboy to down bad man! So believable & ADORABLE !!!!
This is a story about finding your strength. About messy people finding themselves and each other after a loss.
10/10 execution on the reformed playboy to down bad man! So believable & ADORABLE !!!!
September 14, 2025
I would have loved to know beforehand that this one really leans into the US military brotherhood saviorism stuff, which the blurb doesn't really get into.
Age gap romance between brother's best friend and best friend's little sister, she's dealing with a breakup that turned into a viral meme. What's better than ending a decade long relationship by jumping into another one!!
Elements of this were fun. There's some great phone sex scenes, the MMC is a playboy who unintentionally stops going on dates/hookups with the literal hoards of women lusting over him (he seriously needs a burner phone just to keep up with the influx of horny texts he gets hourly.) Lots of lusting over each other, FMC finding new friends in Iowa.
Technically there's a dog, but he really shows up to be a plot device wump wump wump. Emotionally available MMC's are refreshing to see, that dude can out talk anyone. I'm not sure if he's a golden retriever or himbo MMC, or both honestly. Fucking social butterfly.
However, overall this one was not working for me. I would have loved to see Willow spend time not in romantic relationships and actually get time knowing herself and understanding her needs. She dated someone started in middle school for 10+ years. Then after a couple months is pining over another guy. Take some time, figure yourself out. The "re-do list" plot point of this was hanging on by a thread, and was truly there just for these two to do a bunch of sexual stuff her repressed-ex wasn't into. Which is fine, but added no tension, plot, chemistry, background, etc to the story.
There's also a lot of internalized ableism and white savior complex happening with the MMC that doesn't really ever get addressed or called out, which was frustrating. Being medically discharged from the military doesn't make you lesser than or a failure. Would have loved to see that more deeply addressed.
I will say, my gay ass wanted to see an entire romance of the MMC and best friend/brother since all of their military flashbacks were so homoerotic and I loved every one lmao. Every flashback was another loaded "he's my brother, I love him so much" that was meant to be platonic, but the vibes were vibing. Give Cruz and Deacon a chance!!
I've read other books from Williams and think this is more of a "it's me, not you" situation.
Arc provided by Netgalley.
Age gap romance between brother's best friend and best friend's little sister, she's dealing with a breakup that turned into a viral meme. What's better than ending a decade long relationship by jumping into another one!!
Elements of this were fun. There's some great phone sex scenes, the MMC is a playboy who unintentionally stops going on dates/hookups with the literal hoards of women lusting over him (he seriously needs a burner phone just to keep up with the influx of horny texts he gets hourly.) Lots of lusting over each other, FMC finding new friends in Iowa.
Technically there's a dog, but he really shows up to be a plot device wump wump wump. Emotionally available MMC's are refreshing to see, that dude can out talk anyone. I'm not sure if he's a golden retriever or himbo MMC, or both honestly. Fucking social butterfly.
However, overall this one was not working for me. I would have loved to see Willow spend time not in romantic relationships and actually get time knowing herself and understanding her needs. She dated someone started in middle school for 10+ years. Then after a couple months is pining over another guy. Take some time, figure yourself out. The "re-do list" plot point of this was hanging on by a thread, and was truly there just for these two to do a bunch of sexual stuff her repressed-ex wasn't into. Which is fine, but added no tension, plot, chemistry, background, etc to the story.
There's also a lot of internalized ableism and white savior complex happening with the MMC that doesn't really ever get addressed or called out, which was frustrating. Being medically discharged from the military doesn't make you lesser than or a failure. Would have loved to see that more deeply addressed.
I will say, my gay ass wanted to see an entire romance of the MMC and best friend/brother since all of their military flashbacks were so homoerotic and I loved every one lmao. Every flashback was another loaded "he's my brother, I love him so much" that was meant to be platonic, but the vibes were vibing. Give Cruz and Deacon a chance!!
I've read other books from Williams and think this is more of a "it's me, not you" situation.
Arc provided by Netgalley.
Read
August 13, 2025You're telling me this has age gap, brother's best friend, "teach me" vibes, reformed player, AND SLOW BURN?! SAY 👏🏼 LESS 👏🏼
January 28, 2026
•Review•
4🌟
📖Book 3/78
📚 Title:
The Re-Do List
✍️Author:
Denise Williams
📄Pages: 432
💫Genre:
•Fiction•Romance•
••••••••••••••••••••••••
❤️🩹Synopsis❤️🩹
There’s always a first for everything but imagine spending all your FIRSTS on the wrong guy. Willow sets her self up to have a Re-Do bucket list of firsts, and her brother’s bestie joins her on this journey. Life rebuild unloading…
💭Thoughts 💭
This was such a comforting book. I absolutely loved the chemistry between Willow and Deacon. Cruz was also a great addition as a background character since this book showed military brother camaraderie. I was all for the plot and age gap since it was an appropriate one. Air Force para-rescue jumper ummmm yes please, I was invested since the get go! A charming romance novel with a depth of characters and connections.
✨Thank you @berkleypub & @netgalley for a copy of this arc in exchange for an honest review✨
•••••••••••••••••••••••
4🌟
📖Book 3/78
📚 Title:
The Re-Do List
✍️Author:
Denise Williams
📄Pages: 432
💫Genre:
•Fiction•Romance•
••••••••••••••••••••••••
❤️🩹Synopsis❤️🩹
There’s always a first for everything but imagine spending all your FIRSTS on the wrong guy. Willow sets her self up to have a Re-Do bucket list of firsts, and her brother’s bestie joins her on this journey. Life rebuild unloading…
💭Thoughts 💭
This was such a comforting book. I absolutely loved the chemistry between Willow and Deacon. Cruz was also a great addition as a background character since this book showed military brother camaraderie. I was all for the plot and age gap since it was an appropriate one. Air Force para-rescue jumper ummmm yes please, I was invested since the get go! A charming romance novel with a depth of characters and connections.
✨Thank you @berkleypub & @netgalley for a copy of this arc in exchange for an honest review✨
•••••••••••••••••••••••
January 27, 2026
Thank you Berkley Romance for my copy! All thoughts are my own.
I have been a Denise Williams fan since Day 1 and proud of it! I think this might be my second favorite book she’s released so far. I loved the journey Willow went through to reclaim her memories and separate them from an ex. As always, Denise writes of emotional life milestones with such care and still manages to make readers laugh and feel joy. I loved the characters, the setting, and the overall themes of the book! Synopsis:
“Willow experienced all her big firsts with her high school sweetheart. Now, reeling from their very public breakup, she wants to get a re-do on those important moments. While dog-sitting for her brother during his deployment, she has a chance to start over and spending time with his best friend gives her the confidence to start checking items off her “Re-Do list.”Deacon promised his best friend two things when Cruz left for a deployment: that he’d look out for Willow, and that he’d keep his hands off Cruz’s baby sister. “Operation Re-Do” is innocent enough at first: Deacon likes Willow and he’s willing to help her out any way he can. But when the list of firsts turns from a first dance to first kisses and more, Deacon can’t deny the connection he feels to Willow.As Deacon’s and Willow’s firsts turn to seconds, thirds, and fourths, this pair can’t get enough of each other—and they support each other through new challenges. But they are both aware there’s an end date to Willow’s time in town… and even if she were to stay, Deacon doesn’t know how to choose between his loyalty to his closest friend and the woman he’s fallen in love with. With no more romantic moments on her list for them to re-do, can these two still find a way to stay together?” —NetGalley
What I Liked:
The Tropes + Premise—I’m such a sucker for the brother’s best friend tropes because it usually implies history without being second chance and have such tension/high stakes.
The Writing—I adore the way Denise writes. It makes you want to keep reading and savor the work at the same time.
The Pacing—Everything unfolded in a way that felt natural to the nature of the story.
What Didn’t Work for Me:
Insta-Lovey Vibes—I wish it had read a bit more like yearning, but it also could just be a me thing!
Character Authenticity: 4/5 Spice rating: 3/5 Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Content Warnings:
death of a parent, grief, past military service
I have been a Denise Williams fan since Day 1 and proud of it! I think this might be my second favorite book she’s released so far. I loved the journey Willow went through to reclaim her memories and separate them from an ex. As always, Denise writes of emotional life milestones with such care and still manages to make readers laugh and feel joy. I loved the characters, the setting, and the overall themes of the book! Synopsis:
“Willow experienced all her big firsts with her high school sweetheart. Now, reeling from their very public breakup, she wants to get a re-do on those important moments. While dog-sitting for her brother during his deployment, she has a chance to start over and spending time with his best friend gives her the confidence to start checking items off her “Re-Do list.”Deacon promised his best friend two things when Cruz left for a deployment: that he’d look out for Willow, and that he’d keep his hands off Cruz’s baby sister. “Operation Re-Do” is innocent enough at first: Deacon likes Willow and he’s willing to help her out any way he can. But when the list of firsts turns from a first dance to first kisses and more, Deacon can’t deny the connection he feels to Willow.As Deacon’s and Willow’s firsts turn to seconds, thirds, and fourths, this pair can’t get enough of each other—and they support each other through new challenges. But they are both aware there’s an end date to Willow’s time in town… and even if she were to stay, Deacon doesn’t know how to choose between his loyalty to his closest friend and the woman he’s fallen in love with. With no more romantic moments on her list for them to re-do, can these two still find a way to stay together?” —NetGalley
What I Liked:
The Tropes + Premise—I’m such a sucker for the brother’s best friend tropes because it usually implies history without being second chance and have such tension/high stakes.
The Writing—I adore the way Denise writes. It makes you want to keep reading and savor the work at the same time.
The Pacing—Everything unfolded in a way that felt natural to the nature of the story.
What Didn’t Work for Me:
Insta-Lovey Vibes—I wish it had read a bit more like yearning, but it also could just be a me thing!
Character Authenticity: 4/5 Spice rating: 3/5 Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Content Warnings:
death of a parent, grief, past military service
February 9, 2026
*Thank you @prhaudio for the gifted alc!*
The Re-Do List by Denise Williams
Narrators: Teddy Hamilton, January LaVoy
Release Date: Jan 27, 2026
•THE REVIEW•
Denise Williams writing has something in it that hooks you from the very beginning. Willow and Deacon both grow so much throughout the story and their chemistry is unmatched. Willow battles a lot throughout the story and Deacon is there for her and supports her through the whole story. There were times I just wanted to reach into the pages and give Willow a giant hug.
Teddy Hamilton and January LaVoy did an amazing job at bringing these characters to life and making you fall in love with them.
This is my second book by this author and I cannot wait to read more!
•THE PLAYLIST•
Ain’t No Mountain High Enough - Marvin Gaye, Tammi Terrell
Un-thinkable (I’m Ready) - Alicia Keys
Baby Steps - Olivia Dean
Scars To Your Beautiful - Alessia Cara
Into You - Fabolous, Tamia
(For the full playlist, visit @devin.reads on IG)
The Re-Do List by Denise Williams
Narrators: Teddy Hamilton, January LaVoy
Release Date: Jan 27, 2026
•THE REVIEW•
Denise Williams writing has something in it that hooks you from the very beginning. Willow and Deacon both grow so much throughout the story and their chemistry is unmatched. Willow battles a lot throughout the story and Deacon is there for her and supports her through the whole story. There were times I just wanted to reach into the pages and give Willow a giant hug.
Teddy Hamilton and January LaVoy did an amazing job at bringing these characters to life and making you fall in love with them.
This is my second book by this author and I cannot wait to read more!
•THE PLAYLIST•
Ain’t No Mountain High Enough - Marvin Gaye, Tammi Terrell
Un-thinkable (I’m Ready) - Alicia Keys
Baby Steps - Olivia Dean
Scars To Your Beautiful - Alessia Cara
Into You - Fabolous, Tamia
(For the full playlist, visit @devin.reads on IG)
February 4, 2026
wait LOVE!!!! this was so fun!!!!!
January 6, 2026
There was something really comforting about this story. It has that soft, cozy-romance feel while still touching on some heavier emotional themes like starting over, public heartbreak, changing dreams, and learning who you are outside of a long relationship.
After a very public breakup, Willow returns home feeling a little lost and stuck in the shadow of the life she thought she’d have. Her idea to create a “re-do list” of moments she wants to reclaim is such a sweet concept, and it becomes a gentle way for her to rebuild confidence and explore who she is now. I enjoyed watching her slowly step outside her comfort zone, try new things, and begin redefining what happiness looks like for her.
Deacon was definitely a highlight for me. He’s dealing with his own setbacks after being forced to let go of the future he planned, and I appreciated that his arc wasn’t magically fixed overnight. He’s steady, supportive, and genuinely caring without feeling like he exists just to “save” Willow. Their relationship grows in a very tender, friends to more way, and I loved the sense of safety and warmth between them. The banter was fun, the chemistry was natural, and the emotional beats landed well for me.
One of my favorite parts of the book was the feeling of community and chosen family. Between Cruz, the small-town dynamics, and even the dogs, there’s a cozy atmosphere that made the story really pleasant to sink into. The romance felt sweet and comforting, with some steamy moments mixed in, and the ending while a bit predictable was emotionally satisfying.
If I had any small critiques, it would be that I sometimes wanted deeper exploration of Willow’s personal growth independent of romance, and a few elements felt like they could have been developed a bit more. Still, overall this was a warm, heartfelt read that left me with that soft, content feeling you get after a cozy afternoon romance.
A great pick if you love second-chance energy, friends to lovers, small-town vibes, and stories about starting over. Thanks to the Berkley publishing firm the gifted ARC.
After a very public breakup, Willow returns home feeling a little lost and stuck in the shadow of the life she thought she’d have. Her idea to create a “re-do list” of moments she wants to reclaim is such a sweet concept, and it becomes a gentle way for her to rebuild confidence and explore who she is now. I enjoyed watching her slowly step outside her comfort zone, try new things, and begin redefining what happiness looks like for her.
Deacon was definitely a highlight for me. He’s dealing with his own setbacks after being forced to let go of the future he planned, and I appreciated that his arc wasn’t magically fixed overnight. He’s steady, supportive, and genuinely caring without feeling like he exists just to “save” Willow. Their relationship grows in a very tender, friends to more way, and I loved the sense of safety and warmth between them. The banter was fun, the chemistry was natural, and the emotional beats landed well for me.
One of my favorite parts of the book was the feeling of community and chosen family. Between Cruz, the small-town dynamics, and even the dogs, there’s a cozy atmosphere that made the story really pleasant to sink into. The romance felt sweet and comforting, with some steamy moments mixed in, and the ending while a bit predictable was emotionally satisfying.
If I had any small critiques, it would be that I sometimes wanted deeper exploration of Willow’s personal growth independent of romance, and a few elements felt like they could have been developed a bit more. Still, overall this was a warm, heartfelt read that left me with that soft, content feeling you get after a cozy afternoon romance.
A great pick if you love second-chance energy, friends to lovers, small-town vibes, and stories about starting over. Thanks to the Berkley publishing firm the gifted ARC.
February 5, 2026
If you want a romance that has it all: banter, tension, slow burn, good spice, that also covers deeper topics, family and relationship dynamics, and features a cute dog, THIS IS THE ONE!!!!! I am so glad I listened to the audio, I had THE best time with this one!!
September 14, 2025
Title: The Re-Do List
Author: Denise Williams
What to expect:
*Brother’s best friend
*Age gap
*Reformed playboy
Pros:
I enjoyed the way the FMC was not intimidated by the MMC’s past, she knew he was it for her. I also enjoyed the way the MMC was more than willing to help her move through her list, no matter what the activity involved.
Cons:
If you don’t like reading about the MMC being a playboy, then this title might not be for you. It is mentioned in just about every chapter. He lives with them. He interacts with them every day. At one point he shows the FMC his phone where he has five different hookup offers, from five different women, waiting on his reply. Thankfully the MMC never acted on any of the offers!
Safety:
No OW/OM drama, no jealousy, no third act breakup.
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for the opportunity to read and review this title.
Format: NetGalley ebook
Genre: Contemporary fiction, romance
Overall score:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice level:🌶️🌶️🌶️
Characters: Willow (FMC) & Deacon (MMC)
Author: Denise Williams
What to expect:
*Brother’s best friend
*Age gap
*Reformed playboy
Pros:
I enjoyed the way the FMC was not intimidated by the MMC’s past, she knew he was it for her. I also enjoyed the way the MMC was more than willing to help her move through her list, no matter what the activity involved.
Cons:
If you don’t like reading about the MMC being a playboy, then this title might not be for you. It is mentioned in just about every chapter. He lives with them. He interacts with them every day. At one point he shows the FMC his phone where he has five different hookup offers, from five different women, waiting on his reply. Thankfully the MMC never acted on any of the offers!
Safety:
No OW/OM drama, no jealousy, no third act breakup.
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for the opportunity to read and review this title.
Format: NetGalley ebook
Genre: Contemporary fiction, romance
Overall score:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice level:🌶️🌶️🌶️
Characters: Willow (FMC) & Deacon (MMC)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 3, 2026
This book should theoretically be super cute and funny, but—
1. The jokes were like 70% awkward at best. “No!” I laughed at the idea. “And isn’t it supposed to be a fig leaf?” He motioned to his crotch. “C’mon. For this?” Also—why is he constantly complimenting his own looks/other parts of his body??
2. When characters say stuff like “cringe,” I cringe. That is simply the rule. “Just a funny TikTok video,” I said. “— CLAWING AT THE BARS, I’M TRYING TO ESCAPE THE ASYLUM, NOT BE DRAGGED BACK INTO THE REALITY AND THE PLAGUES OF MODERN SOCIETY.
In all seriousness, I understand (I have to deal with) the fact that this is contemporary fiction and it reflects our current culture, but I do not want to read about TikTok or Instagram or memes because, for me, that simply does not compute. It’s just wrong. I hope someone understands.
To go a bit deeper into the depths of my soul and the disdain for modern society I already feel: I already feel like an outsider, like there’s a glass wall between me and the apparent joy of watching Love Island. But books—I get books. I understand them. I love reading. And when I read the word TikTok, the book mocks me. It sounds silly, but it mocks me on a personal level, which is of course very personal to me and why I get so disproportionately offended.
And I would be nothing if not a massive hypocrite, because I myself do watch TikToks—I just watch them on Pinterest, like any morally superior being would.
3. I literally have no leg to stand on, buuut her whole “I broke up with my boyfriend over a month ago and I still buy two coffees out of habit” thing?! Like… okay, yeah—dating for 10 years and then being brutally dumped is rough, and the story is clearly about her gaining confidence. But (a) I cannot relate at all, and (b) I ended up finding her kind of exhausting. Not even whiny or pathetic—I just wanted to scream at her to stop mentioning Spencer every freaking second.
That being said, it definitely had its moments, and I actually really liked the whole bucket list idea a lot.
1. The jokes were like 70% awkward at best. “No!” I laughed at the idea. “And isn’t it supposed to be a fig leaf?” He motioned to his crotch. “C’mon. For this?” Also—why is he constantly complimenting his own looks/other parts of his body??
2. When characters say stuff like “cringe,” I cringe. That is simply the rule. “Just a funny TikTok video,” I said. “— CLAWING AT THE BARS, I’M TRYING TO ESCAPE THE ASYLUM, NOT BE DRAGGED BACK INTO THE REALITY AND THE PLAGUES OF MODERN SOCIETY.
In all seriousness, I understand (I have to deal with) the fact that this is contemporary fiction and it reflects our current culture, but I do not want to read about TikTok or Instagram or memes because, for me, that simply does not compute. It’s just wrong. I hope someone understands.
To go a bit deeper into the depths of my soul and the disdain for modern society I already feel: I already feel like an outsider, like there’s a glass wall between me and the apparent joy of watching Love Island. But books—I get books. I understand them. I love reading. And when I read the word TikTok, the book mocks me. It sounds silly, but it mocks me on a personal level, which is of course very personal to me and why I get so disproportionately offended.
And I would be nothing if not a massive hypocrite, because I myself do watch TikToks—I just watch them on Pinterest, like any morally superior being would.
3. I literally have no leg to stand on, buuut her whole “I broke up with my boyfriend over a month ago and I still buy two coffees out of habit” thing?! Like… okay, yeah—dating for 10 years and then being brutally dumped is rough, and the story is clearly about her gaining confidence. But (a) I cannot relate at all, and (b) I ended up finding her kind of exhausting. Not even whiny or pathetic—I just wanted to scream at her to stop mentioning Spencer every freaking second.
That being said, it definitely had its moments, and I actually really liked the whole bucket list idea a lot.
Read
January 21, 2026Thank you @berkleyromance @nicwillwrites for my free copy and to @prhaudio for the complimentary audiobook!
I really enjoyed this one. I loved the concept of "redoing" memories tied to an ex— someone you once thought was everything, only for things to fall apart in a way that truly hurts and requires real healing. I appreciated watching Willow intentionally seek a fresh start as she worked through her heartbreak.
I thought that the dynamic between Willow and Deacon was sweet. His commitment to showing up for her, first as a favor to his best friend, but clearly because he genuinely cared, was endearing and made their connection feel sincere.
This story reminded me that healing isn't about erasing the past, but more about working to reclaim yourself after disappointment and believing that new, beautiful beginnings are still possible.
‼️— includes open-door, on-the-page intimacy
I really enjoyed this one. I loved the concept of "redoing" memories tied to an ex— someone you once thought was everything, only for things to fall apart in a way that truly hurts and requires real healing. I appreciated watching Willow intentionally seek a fresh start as she worked through her heartbreak.
I thought that the dynamic between Willow and Deacon was sweet. His commitment to showing up for her, first as a favor to his best friend, but clearly because he genuinely cared, was endearing and made their connection feel sincere.
This story reminded me that healing isn't about erasing the past, but more about working to reclaim yourself after disappointment and believing that new, beautiful beginnings are still possible.
‼️— includes open-door, on-the-page intimacy
February 4, 2026
The Re-Do List by Denise Williams is a fun, sweet, and utterly charming romance.
After suffering an extremely public breakup with her high school sweetheart, FMC Willow retreats to her brother Cruz’s house to dog sit while he is deployed on a military mission. Willow hopes the change of scenery will help her get back on her feet and start to heal from her humiliation and heartbreak. Willow wants a “re-do” of important moments from her past and has made a list to help her figure it all out.
Enter MMC Deacon Cruz’s best friend and former squadmate. Did I mention he’s drop-dead gorgeous? Anyway, Cruz asks Deacon to keep an eye on his baby sister and help her out while he’s deployed. Cruz warns Deacon to keep his hands off Willow and just be a friend, nothing more, but as often happens, life has other plans, and Deacon and Willow can’t deny the budding chemistry and connection between them.
What follows is a sweet slow burn. Deacon begins to help Willow come out of her shell and work on her redo list, and Willow helps Deacon deal with his complicated feelings about his medical discharge and the possibility that he will never be able to return to his previous military life. Through it all, Willow and Deacon are each other’s friend first, and when they can no longer deny their romantic/sexual feelings for each other, things get all types of steamy, but in a sweet, slow progression that starts with phone sex and escalates from there. Before they know it, Willow and Deacon are totally into each other and slowly realizing that their relationship might be so much more than just friends with benefits.
Overall, The Re-Do List was a fun read that had me thoroughly invested in the characters and their relationship. Williams' writing is sharp and just works. She keeps you invested and immersed in the world she creates, the characters in it, and the tropes she’s chosen to use. Her pacing is also top-notch as the book flows beautifully. None of the writing ever feels unnecessary or padded. I’d definitely pick up The Re-Do List if you enjoy slow-burn romance, friends to lovers, banter, and well-written FMCs and MMCs that you stay rooting for.
Thank you to NetGalley, Berkley Publishing Group, and Denise Williams for the gifted eARC.
After suffering an extremely public breakup with her high school sweetheart, FMC Willow retreats to her brother Cruz’s house to dog sit while he is deployed on a military mission. Willow hopes the change of scenery will help her get back on her feet and start to heal from her humiliation and heartbreak. Willow wants a “re-do” of important moments from her past and has made a list to help her figure it all out.
Enter MMC Deacon Cruz’s best friend and former squadmate. Did I mention he’s drop-dead gorgeous? Anyway, Cruz asks Deacon to keep an eye on his baby sister and help her out while he’s deployed. Cruz warns Deacon to keep his hands off Willow and just be a friend, nothing more, but as often happens, life has other plans, and Deacon and Willow can’t deny the budding chemistry and connection between them.
What follows is a sweet slow burn. Deacon begins to help Willow come out of her shell and work on her redo list, and Willow helps Deacon deal with his complicated feelings about his medical discharge and the possibility that he will never be able to return to his previous military life. Through it all, Willow and Deacon are each other’s friend first, and when they can no longer deny their romantic/sexual feelings for each other, things get all types of steamy, but in a sweet, slow progression that starts with phone sex and escalates from there. Before they know it, Willow and Deacon are totally into each other and slowly realizing that their relationship might be so much more than just friends with benefits.
Overall, The Re-Do List was a fun read that had me thoroughly invested in the characters and their relationship. Williams' writing is sharp and just works. She keeps you invested and immersed in the world she creates, the characters in it, and the tropes she’s chosen to use. Her pacing is also top-notch as the book flows beautifully. None of the writing ever feels unnecessary or padded. I’d definitely pick up The Re-Do List if you enjoy slow-burn romance, friends to lovers, banter, and well-written FMCs and MMCs that you stay rooting for.
Thank you to NetGalley, Berkley Publishing Group, and Denise Williams for the gifted eARC.
January 3, 2026
2.5 stars rounded up to 3
i had such high hopes for this book, but unfortunately it fell very flat for me. i did enjoy the friendships our fmc, willow, made in the town she escaped to after becoming a viral meme. i also thought the premise of the meme was funny and was really hoping for this to feel more empowering after becoming what seemed like, the laughing stock of the world, but instead the results seemed to infantilize willow instead. i found her very immature and it felt like it was trying to come off as cute and quirky to me, but failed to do so. i also found the pacing of this book to be incredibly fast yet so slow at the same time. i think one of the reasons for this was the way the author attempted to create tension between willow and deacon, yet instead read like incredibly awkward moments for me. i really enjoyed willow’s relationship with her brother, cruz, but at the end of the book found it to become quite odd. i also didn’t expect this to lean so heavily into military aspects and i just don’t find that very enjoyable to read about, but that’s personal preference and i just want to make note of it because based off the blurb i did not expect it to be such a giant plot point in this book. this was my first denise williams book, and i am willing to give her books another chance but i do not think that this was the book for me unfortunately.
i had such high hopes for this book, but unfortunately it fell very flat for me. i did enjoy the friendships our fmc, willow, made in the town she escaped to after becoming a viral meme. i also thought the premise of the meme was funny and was really hoping for this to feel more empowering after becoming what seemed like, the laughing stock of the world, but instead the results seemed to infantilize willow instead. i found her very immature and it felt like it was trying to come off as cute and quirky to me, but failed to do so. i also found the pacing of this book to be incredibly fast yet so slow at the same time. i think one of the reasons for this was the way the author attempted to create tension between willow and deacon, yet instead read like incredibly awkward moments for me. i really enjoyed willow’s relationship with her brother, cruz, but at the end of the book found it to become quite odd. i also didn’t expect this to lean so heavily into military aspects and i just don’t find that very enjoyable to read about, but that’s personal preference and i just want to make note of it because based off the blurb i did not expect it to be such a giant plot point in this book. this was my first denise williams book, and i am willing to give her books another chance but i do not think that this was the book for me unfortunately.
January 24, 2026
I LOVED this book! This was a major case of right book right time. This was everything I wanted and needed in a book right now. The longing, the introspection, the hard times not being made easier in a snap, the back in forth in their minds, trying to rewire their brain against the obstacles in their way and the perception they’ve created of themselves. It was very emotional and the wave of relief breaking was powerful. I adored this couple and how empathetic and caring they were for each other, even right off the bat. Love love love. I love that they ate strong enough to keep going, even in the face of uncertainty about their future career and plans, knowing that they have each other’s love and support. And it made me giggle a lot which is so needed right now.
Note: I LOVE the audiobook. They bring these personalities and emotions out so well for these fabulous characters.
Thanks to the publisher for a free copy and ALC; my thoughts and review are my own.
Note: I LOVE the audiobook. They bring these personalities and emotions out so well for these fabulous characters.
Thanks to the publisher for a free copy and ALC; my thoughts and review are my own.
January 28, 2026
I thought this was good overall. I enjoyed the romance between Willow and Deacon and liked how their relationship developed. I liked watching Willow find herself after the end of her long term relationship and I appreciated seeing Deacon come to terms with how his injury affected his chances of reenlisting into the military. That said, the story felt a bit long and certain scenes dragged more than they needed to. I wasn’t really that interested in the list or all the military focused discussions. There was also an age gap, but I’m not sure I would’ve even noticed if it hadn’t been pointed out. I did enjoy the story, but not as much as some other books I’ve read by this author….
I received an ARC copy from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review
I received an ARC copy from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review
December 3, 2025
I read this in two sittings, only putting it down to drive home from work. This is definitely my new favorite Denise Williams book!
Brother’s best friend, age-gap, romance. Willow has only ever been with one guy, and after her break up goes viral she needs a break. Her brother’s best friend is recently out of Air Force due to a spinal tumor, and he’s helping keep an eye on Willow while also adjusting back to civilian life. Oh, and he’s 10 years older than her. With his help, Willow creates a re-do list to help her do things for the first time, again.
I hope her brother gets a book!
Brother’s best friend, age-gap, romance. Willow has only ever been with one guy, and after her break up goes viral she needs a break. Her brother’s best friend is recently out of Air Force due to a spinal tumor, and he’s helping keep an eye on Willow while also adjusting back to civilian life. Oh, and he’s 10 years older than her. With his help, Willow creates a re-do list to help her do things for the first time, again.
I hope her brother gets a book!
February 8, 2026
This book is pure joy and I will fight anyone who says differently!
I loved that the mains met each other right where they are, they joked around but didn’t try to change each other. They fully accepted each other and grew together.
It was such a sweet story.
My only caveat is that the sex felt like it should be in a different book. It was so spicy, it takes you out of the story. It didn’t fit the vibe of the rest of the book. The book itself is soft and warm and cozy, then the sex is at the level we all wish 50 shades was (without the bdsm)
Honestly, I feel like this book stands so well on its own it doesn’t even need sex.
I loved that the mains met each other right where they are, they joked around but didn’t try to change each other. They fully accepted each other and grew together.
It was such a sweet story.
My only caveat is that the sex felt like it should be in a different book. It was so spicy, it takes you out of the story. It didn’t fit the vibe of the rest of the book. The book itself is soft and warm and cozy, then the sex is at the level we all wish 50 shades was (without the bdsm)
Honestly, I feel like this book stands so well on its own it doesn’t even need sex.
February 10, 2026
4.5.
I cannot emphasize enough how much of a sucker I am for contemporary romance books! I’ll read them all and I’ll read them fast! If I had a solid day away from my kids I would have finished this one faster. This was so sweet and such a fun premise. I found the pacing a little off and while the book could have been 50 pages shorter, it could have also been 50 pages longer! There was great descriptions and history/context building and great self exploration. I finished with a smile on my face and warm fuzzy feeling. Makes me wonder what I should re-do in my life!!
I cannot emphasize enough how much of a sucker I am for contemporary romance books! I’ll read them all and I’ll read them fast! If I had a solid day away from my kids I would have finished this one faster. This was so sweet and such a fun premise. I found the pacing a little off and while the book could have been 50 pages shorter, it could have also been 50 pages longer! There was great descriptions and history/context building and great self exploration. I finished with a smile on my face and warm fuzzy feeling. Makes me wonder what I should re-do in my life!!
February 3, 2026
denise.... deniseee? why? i have no sympathy for anyone in the military so this was never for me but there is a lot of stuff that doesn't happen in here that probably should. starting the book with a breakup, fine. but said breakup becomes so instrumental to willow's character it felt like maybe we should have read at least some of her relationship with spencer? i don't wanna talk about deacon because i don't give a fuck. i hated the violence. i hated the man-whore shit. i hated the 'man teaches woman how to have sex' thing that was going on. i did like the dogs.
Read
February 4, 2026Dangerous of melting
drop to more dancing
fountin of kisses we share
hope to fall again and again
y protect what y have
its dream glasses
gab of years nt stop us
falling against thee wishs
what mater was our love
cant grab our lost of time anymore
bring our flower to frsh beuty
cant start be end
no vanshid dream anymore
forever melting wishs
drop to more dancing
fountin of kisses we share
hope to fall again and again
y protect what y have
its dream glasses
gab of years nt stop us
falling against thee wishs
what mater was our love
cant grab our lost of time anymore
bring our flower to frsh beuty
cant start be end
no vanshid dream anymore
forever melting wishs
January 27, 2026
thank you to prh audio for the alc for my honest review! rtc
January 17, 2026
Thank you @berkleyromance @berkleypub for the digital copy to review!
Listen, I know when I read a @nicwillwrites book, I’m gonna get a hot, plus size female main character and a man who is down bad for her and I eat it up every single time!!!
Willow my girl. After getting dumped by her high school love, she goes to her brother to help her start over. Willow. My heart. I felt SO MANY of her inner thoughts and feelings. How she felt like her first love would be the only person who would love her. How she shrank in on herself. How she let go of parts of her. I loved watching her journey of growth and self discovery in this book.
Deacon. Yes. We love a man who is down bad immediately and I was devouring this storyline with his conflict both with the military and with not wanting to betray his brother and best friend. The yearning! The consistent love and support. The genuine feelings. Please more men like this in romance.
Needless to say, they were hot together. I loveddddd the phone call scene it took me out. And then honestly it just got better and better the more confident Willow got. Wear red, bb.
This one is out on 1/27! Definitely check it out.
Listen, I know when I read a @nicwillwrites book, I’m gonna get a hot, plus size female main character and a man who is down bad for her and I eat it up every single time!!!
Willow my girl. After getting dumped by her high school love, she goes to her brother to help her start over. Willow. My heart. I felt SO MANY of her inner thoughts and feelings. How she felt like her first love would be the only person who would love her. How she shrank in on herself. How she let go of parts of her. I loved watching her journey of growth and self discovery in this book.
Deacon. Yes. We love a man who is down bad immediately and I was devouring this storyline with his conflict both with the military and with not wanting to betray his brother and best friend. The yearning! The consistent love and support. The genuine feelings. Please more men like this in romance.
Needless to say, they were hot together. I loveddddd the phone call scene it took me out. And then honestly it just got better and better the more confident Willow got. Wear red, bb.
This one is out on 1/27! Definitely check it out.
November 6, 2025
ARC REVIEW - Fun, light and intriguing. I really liked the idea of a re do list! I liked Willow and Deacon and the brothers best friend trope is always a good time. I really also enjoyed the chemistry between them. I do think the book was much longer than it needed to be, it took away from the story for me. Other than that I really did like the overall plot and writing.
2.5 stars!
2.5 stars!
February 4, 2026
Edit: on a second thought, I'm raising my rating to two stars. I've rated much worse books much less harshly before, and this one isn't exactly, like, offensive to my delicate sensibilities or anything, it's just... there is an absence of it being good. (And I was told there would be bootlicking in the summary, so I'm not sure why exactly the extent of it surprised me.)
Either way, didn't like it, it went nowhere, was actively annoyed with it from like halfway through. It can have a pity-two.
---
This one-star is less an indignant one, but more just that I can't bring myself to give this book a higher rating. It's not a definitive, strikethrough, do-not-pass-go 1, but a high 1, almost a low 2.
I'm just very disappointed that I didn't like this. For an author with this many, pretty well-acclaimed books under her belt, I suppose I expected... I'm not sure, more originality? More technical proficiency? Better structuring? Or I suppose just something more, because the whole time I was reading, I kept catching myself thinking that the way I can best describe this is "amateurish".
I didn't like how every metaphorical event felt like it was then explained to me like I'm some sort of idiot who would miss even the most obvious parallel (), and the happenings that weren't clumsy metaphors felt almost cartoonish, sitcom-esque, with the whole "Drowning Girl" thing somehow managing to be both.
The language use felt uninspired, sort of childish at times, the Big Romantic Declaration, I feel like I've read dozens of times already, and while I started with medium-high hopes (it's not every day I find a book recommended in not just one, but two challenge categories!), that good will quickly dwindled, my notes kept getting visibly more exasperated, until by the end, I was resisting the urge to roll my eyes at every line spoken, and I was just kind of waiting for it to be over.
For all that though, honestly, I feel like the biggest thing this book would have really benefited from is either a committed singular 1st person limited, or a 3rd person omniscient narrator, because the perspective changes were probably what shot it in the leg.
See, it can be very jarring when the POV just sort of flips in the middle of a scene, seemingly at random, or to avoid revealing a single detail (), which to me made them feel like they weren't done for a purpose, to build deeper understanding, or to illustrate, idk, a dissonance between the characters' feelings, but rather because Williams just sort of felt like it. Or because in a movie, this would be where they cut to a reverse-shot of the other character. It's jarring. It really jostles me out of the scene, and then it takes time to get back into the scene, except there's no more scene left to go, because we've switched again, and now it's two weeks later.
It also didn't help that, beyond some superficial elements, the characters' voices felt damn near identical: same word use, same grammar, same feel. At one point near the end, I found myself wondering whether the strange repetition of something that was said a few pages prior that I had found was an editing mistake, or just the two characters happened to elect to use the same words to describe the same thing independently from each other. I feel like that's never a good thing.
(And while this pales in comparison to everything else I've said, I feel like I want to mention it anyway: "Low" is such a horrible nickname for someone. I suppose the intended effect was for me to associate it with a low voice, something sexy, like god knows it was made damn sure that every time Deacon's voice was mentioned the word "gravel" was somewhere there, but my first association is just that she's sad. That she's feeling low, that she has a low battery that needs charging. Which kind of makes it really funny that it's said not mockingly, but with affectionate intent.
I guess "Lo" was avoided because then my first thought would have been "Lolita", but "Loe", "Lolo", "Lola", "Wills", and a million others were right there. "Lola" would have even been kinda sexy. But how can I take a fictional couple seriously when, on top of me not liking the writing, they also call each other Sadsack and Deac-pronounced-like-dick.
....Of course, her brother calling her "Willy" isn't better either. My little sister, Penis. But, again, beside the point.)
(One last, small aside: I guess I didn't quite realize just how much emphasis the military angle would receive. Being propagandistic towards the US military isn't an immediate dealbreaker, who doesn't love Stargate after all, but here, it does stick out very uncomfortably. Like hearing a "crunch" while eating something mushy.)
I'll probably not pick up another book from this author.
Either way, didn't like it, it went nowhere, was actively annoyed with it from like halfway through. It can have a pity-two.
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This one-star is less an indignant one, but more just that I can't bring myself to give this book a higher rating. It's not a definitive, strikethrough, do-not-pass-go 1, but a high 1, almost a low 2.
I'm just very disappointed that I didn't like this. For an author with this many, pretty well-acclaimed books under her belt, I suppose I expected... I'm not sure, more originality? More technical proficiency? Better structuring? Or I suppose just something more, because the whole time I was reading, I kept catching myself thinking that the way I can best describe this is "amateurish".
I didn't like how every metaphorical event felt like it was then explained to me like I'm some sort of idiot who would miss even the most obvious parallel (), and the happenings that weren't clumsy metaphors felt almost cartoonish, sitcom-esque, with the whole "Drowning Girl" thing somehow managing to be both.
The language use felt uninspired, sort of childish at times, the Big Romantic Declaration, I feel like I've read dozens of times already, and while I started with medium-high hopes (it's not every day I find a book recommended in not just one, but two challenge categories!), that good will quickly dwindled, my notes kept getting visibly more exasperated, until by the end, I was resisting the urge to roll my eyes at every line spoken, and I was just kind of waiting for it to be over.
For all that though, honestly, I feel like the biggest thing this book would have really benefited from is either a committed singular 1st person limited, or a 3rd person omniscient narrator, because the perspective changes were probably what shot it in the leg.
See, it can be very jarring when the POV just sort of flips in the middle of a scene, seemingly at random, or to avoid revealing a single detail (), which to me made them feel like they weren't done for a purpose, to build deeper understanding, or to illustrate, idk, a dissonance between the characters' feelings, but rather because Williams just sort of felt like it. Or because in a movie, this would be where they cut to a reverse-shot of the other character. It's jarring. It really jostles me out of the scene, and then it takes time to get back into the scene, except there's no more scene left to go, because we've switched again, and now it's two weeks later.
It also didn't help that, beyond some superficial elements, the characters' voices felt damn near identical: same word use, same grammar, same feel. At one point near the end, I found myself wondering whether the strange repetition of something that was said a few pages prior that I had found was an editing mistake, or just the two characters happened to elect to use the same words to describe the same thing independently from each other. I feel like that's never a good thing.
(And while this pales in comparison to everything else I've said, I feel like I want to mention it anyway: "Low" is such a horrible nickname for someone. I suppose the intended effect was for me to associate it with a low voice, something sexy, like god knows it was made damn sure that every time Deacon's voice was mentioned the word "gravel" was somewhere there, but my first association is just that she's sad. That she's feeling low, that she has a low battery that needs charging. Which kind of makes it really funny that it's said not mockingly, but with affectionate intent.
I guess "Lo" was avoided because then my first thought would have been "Lolita", but "Loe", "Lolo", "Lola", "Wills", and a million others were right there. "Lola" would have even been kinda sexy. But how can I take a fictional couple seriously when, on top of me not liking the writing, they also call each other Sadsack and Deac-pronounced-like-dick.
....Of course, her brother calling her "Willy" isn't better either. My little sister, Penis. But, again, beside the point.)
(One last, small aside: I guess I didn't quite realize just how much emphasis the military angle would receive. Being propagandistic towards the US military isn't an immediate dealbreaker, who doesn't love Stargate after all, but here, it does stick out very uncomfortably. Like hearing a "crunch" while eating something mushy.)
I'll probably not pick up another book from this author.
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