Book Review: Just The Way You Are, by Lynsey James

Dear Ava,
How do you start writing a letter to someone, six years after breaking their heart?

Ava is unlucky in love as well as in life. The new office bitch has landed the dating column Ava wanted, and she can’t remember the last time she had a second date. It’s a good thing she has best friends Max and Gwen to pick up the pieces.

Deep down, Ava knows the reason why one date never turns into two – she’s in love with someone else. Someone she’s never even met.

It all started six years ago, with a letter from a secret admirer, Mr Writer…but then they suddenly stopped and Ava was heartbroken.

Now the letters have started again and Ava knows it could mean winning back the dating column at work. This time she’s determined to unmask Mr Writer…and find out once and for all if he’s Mr Right or Mr Very Definitely Wrong!

***

Thank you Carina for providing me with a review copy via NetGalley – yet another stunning cover from you guys! As soon as I read the blurb I was gripped on the concept – who doesn’t love the idea of love letters from a secret admirer?

I couldn’t help but feel for Ava as I read through her turmoil over Mr Writer. He left her so heartbroken when he stood her up the first time, could she really take the risk of letting him do so again? She’s torn between her hearts desire for her fantasy man whose words she loves, or facing reality and opening up to the possibility of actually getting to know a guy and opening her heart up to someone new. Though I didn’t always agree with her actions, I still really connected to Ava as a character, and often I just wanted to throw my arms around her and give her a squeeze to let her know everything would be alright – she just had to have more faith in herself!

All the characters an this book are brilliantly written, I particularly loved Max and Ivy. The sub-plot of Ivy and Leo was by far one of my favourite parts; it was a really lovely story that complemented the main storyline wonderfully.

I had guessed fairly early where the book was going, but there were twists along the way that kept me on my toes, and overall it is a thoroughly enjoyable, easy read, that’s definitely worth picking up. For a debut book, Lynsey has done a great job, and I’ll certainly be keeping an eye out for her future releases.

Rating: