So I might be late in posting this ARC Review due to the crazy busy month of travel and work I have had, but it does not take away from how fantastic this book is and I wanted to make sure I could do it justice in my review.
This is the second ARC book copy I’ve been lucky enough to receive from Drea Scott and it did not disappoint.
This Side is part one of a duet book series with part two due to be released in the next couple of weeks. This is the first time I’ve ever came across this concept of book so I didn’t really know what to expect.
This duet book series is a two part story and features both the love story and coming of age aspect of Callie Rae and Brant. The book starts with the first time they meet and follows them throughout various parts of their lives.
The characters both have complex issues and the story features traumatic events they both go through.
I don’t want to include spoilers in terms of going into details. But the with the book covering topics like this I wasn’t sure if it would affect me enjoying it as a reader. Drea’s writing honestly excels itself with the topics handled in such a way that they’re integral to the story and dealt with in a delicate way.
The dual POV really gave great insights to this throughout as well as the time jumps. Both characters were both seen as equals even if some circumstances seemed worse than others for one of them it didn’t matter to them as a unit.
While containing all the best parts of a classic young love story it was also very thought provoking and gave an extra level of depth to both the characters and plot.
I can’t remember the last time I read a book and was both elated and gutted. It was such a wholesome read but I am desperate to know how their story ends!
The main themes I took away from the book are:
- How important childhood is to your life whether it’s positive or negative
- Soulmates really do exist in many forms
- Trauma doesn’t define you
- Joy and sadness can co exist
- People will choose to put you first if they want to
- First love will always be special
With this being the first duet series I have read I didn’t know if I would feel such a strong bond to the characters but it’s safe to say that is not an issue thanks to Drea being such an incredible author.
It really feels like we’ve been on a journey right there with Callie and Brant and I’m so looking forward to the rest of the ride!
One again Drea Scott in my opinion gives a refreshing and thought provoking approach to the romance genre, and is quickly becoming a favourite stand out author of mine!
A huge thank you once again to Drea Scott and the team involved for giving me the opportunity of this and receiving an ARC copy.
You can follow Drea Scott on her instagram page @authordreascott for all her latest releases and updates!