Jennifer Park
Staff reporter
Colleen Hoover, a #1 New York Times bestselling author has delivered once again! Hoover wrote an emotional novel about hardships, forgiveness, and recovery. The story shines light on the reality of those who experienced unfortunate incidents. It gives perspective as well as taking you through a sentimental and heartbreaking journey.
An accidental tragedy turned Kenna Rowan’s life upside down. Kenna Rowan is 26-year-old women who caused the unfortunate death of her boyfriend, Scotty. She spent five years in prison and the story starts after her parole. Kenna finds a small home to stay in the countryside and prays to regain custody over their daughter. Ever since the death of Scotty, Scotty’s parents didn’t hold back on expressing their grief for their beloved son as well as deep hatred towards Kenna.
Kenna is a girl who grew up with an unfortunate childhood and wasn’t treated the best by others. She was often looked down upon by her peers due to her status. Her imperfections made the story more realistic and enjoyable to read.
Kenna goes through an obstacle course of trying to clear her name and get a fresh start. Shortly after the incident she found out she was pregnant but headed off to serve in jail for five years. As soon as she gave birth to her daughter, Diem, she was handed off to Scotty’s parents. After Kenna’s release, she went to find Scotty’s parents to see Diem, which didn’t end so well.
One night, Kenna visited a bar despite not being in the mood to drink. That’s when she met Scotty’s best friend, Ledge. Ledge grew interested in Kenna and soon made conversation with her. During that same night, Kenna hooked up with Ledge, not knowing that he’s her deceased boyfriend’s best friend.
“She always looks like she’s carrying the weight of the world on her shoulders” described Ledge. When everyone is pointing fingers at you and calling you a heartless murderer, it can be draining. Despite that, Kenna confidently moves throughout her day.
Ledge was the only person in Kenna’s life who trusted and opened up to her. Everyone else had lasting grudges upon her and would never support Kenna’s full custody of her daughter. This way, Ledge and Kenna grew fond of each other and developed a strong relationship.
Although this novel has an equal base of fans and haters, Hoover expressed the story line in a good but not perfect way. The story line was quite predictable. There weren’t any jaw dropping scenes nor were there any surprises. Everything easily added up to each other, which made me lose my interest throughout the novel.
“She makes gravity seem powerless against her” described Ledge when Kenna finally got to meet her daughter, Diem. Through her journey with Ledge, she kept her head up, never gave up and was prepared for the worst.