Ten Years by Pernille Hughes is a heartwarming and humorous novel that takes readers on a journey of self-discovery, love, and letting go. The book revolves around Becca and Charles who just lost Ally who was Becca's best friend and Charlie's girlfriend.

Hughes' writing style is engaging and witty, making the reader feel like they are a part of the story. The characters are well-developed and relatable, each with their own flaws and struggles. This is a true enemies to lovers trope and we get to see how they change as people and their feelings towards each other throughout the ten years since Ally's passing.

What I loved most about this book was the way it tackled themes of forgiveness, second chances, and the importance of communication in relationships. It was refreshing to see a romance story that didn't rely on cliches or over-the-top drama, but instead focused on the realistic ups and downs friendships and love..

My only complaint is that it dragged on a bit in the middle/ towards the end. I wanted to see them together sooner. The final act conflict was a bit annoying as well.

What I appreciated about this book is that it was full of mess - in a good way. Becca and Charlie have a shared connection with Ally - Becca is her best friend, and Charlie is her fiancé. They share Ally, but they hate one another. Then, Ally dies. She leaves behind a bucket list of things she always wanted to do, and she asks Becca and Charlie to complete the list together. They decide to meet annually to take on Ally's list. Along the way, they explore why their relationship is the way it is which comes with all the ups and downs. This is an exploration of grief, of friendship, of love, and just the complicated stuff that we navigate in life. I liked that even though I had a hunch how this would end, there were so many twists and turns (as there are often are in life) before the story got there. Thanks to NetGalley for the early look at this August 2023 release!

This book was funny and heart felt. Books on grief are alway a journey. This book was reminiscent of One Day, but more realistically done. It’s hard to believe that two people will see each other the same day every year, but in the case of Ten Years, these two people are brought together by a shared loss and meet to fulfill the wishes of a loved one. These characters had real flaws and at times were truly frustrating but that was part of their charm. The separate journeys and self revelations were all very real and well written. These characters changed over time and morphed into different and better versions of themselves. They felt lived in and fully realized by the ending. The ending itself was less satisfying than I’d have liked and I wish I’d see more of a conclusion. Valarie’s part in the whole plot was lessened with the ending and felt like a cheap last minute change on the part of the author. I’d recommend this book to those who want a heartfelt journey of self-discovery after loss with a side of romance.

Thanks so much Harper 360 and NetGalley for an advance read in exchange for this review.

Becca and Charlie have known each other since college. They've also hated each other since college. They are connected through Ally - Charlie's fiancee and Becca's best friend forever. Ally dies, and the two have to connect each year to do an item for Ally's bucket list.

There are lessons here in love, loss, and grief. This book is told from Becca and Charlie's POVs. They are only connected through Ally and some other mutual friends. They don't like each other. I thought the timing of the book was a little off as it jumped to various points over a ten year time span. There were certain years where I wished I could've read more before it went to the next. The one thing that bothered me was that I felt like I didn't know Becca or Charlie. It was hard to root for them to be together. The last few chapters of the book were great and gave glimpses into things that were going on in both of their lives, but I wanted more of that. It's not a bad story, and there's plenty of moments where you will be frustrated by them. You'll also be cheering. 3 1/2

Nothing but amazing things to say about this book. I have to admit, I cried so much. It was such a heartwrenching story but also so incredibly well written. I will admit at first I was a little bit unsure about the idea that the dead woman's fiance would date her best friend but it turned out to be just amazing. There was nothing left to question, no plot holes, just an amazingly well-written novel.

Pernille Hughes’ Ten Years is a delightful romantic comedy that explores the complex relationship between two best friends, Becca and Charlie, who are perfect for each other but have yet to realize it. The novel follows the two characters as they navigate their lives over the course of a decade, from university to adulthood, through joy, grief, and everything in between.

The story is filled with witty banter and hilarious situations that will leave you chuckling and rooting for the two protagonists. The chemistry between Becca and Charlie is undeniable, and their constant bickering only adds to their undeniable attraction. The supporting characters are also well fleshed out and add depth to the story.

What sets Ten Years apart from other romantic comedies is its exploration of grief and loss. The death of Ally, their shared best friend, is a constant presence throughout the book, and the characters' struggles to come to terms with their loss are touching and relatable.

However, the book's pacing can feel a little uneven at times, and some of the conflicts and resolutions may feel a bit contrived. Additionally, the ending may not satisfy some readers who prefer a more definitive conclusion.

Overall, Ten Years is a charming and enjoyable read that will leave you with a warm, fuzzy feeling. It's perfect for fans of rom-coms and anyone looking for a lighthearted but heartfelt story about friendship, love, and loss. I give it 3.75 out of 5 stars.

One of my favorite tropes, enemies-to-lovers, executed so tastefully done. TEN YEARS had me hooked and invested with these characters and storyline from the very first page up to the very end. Perfect amount of angst, tension, and believability which are the most important elements I crave in an emotional romance. There were moments where I laughed out loud and some where my heart ached. I so enjoyed the characters' depth and their connection and relationship together.

What forces them to be in contact with one another is the death of their beloved Ally, Becca's best friend and Charlie's partner and completely Ally's bucket list as a tribute to her.

At times I wanted to grab Becca and Charlie's shoulders and talk some sense in to them. Thank goodness it took no more than ten years for them to see what is clearly in front of one another (as I wouldn't haven't been able to hold out much longer knowing they could go one more second apart from each other).

I hope this author never stops writing!!

Thank you to Harper 360 and NetGalley for the digital arc in exchange for my honest thoughts.

Enemies to lovers. Love the storyline. Charming. Thank you net galley. Publishers for allowing me to read I really love this book.

Thank you netgalley for this arc!

I, unfortunately, struggled so hard with this. I am dipping my toes in the romance pool and the various sub genres under its umbrella. Some of my attempts have been successful but others have not. Most of all, the biggest trope here at play, is my least favorite. Maybe this is just not my cup of tea? I didn’t care enough