I was surprised by how much I liked this book. I was not immediately hooked when I first started reading it but a couple chapters in I couldn’t put it down. This book deals with some more serious topics as the MMC has lost his best friend and the FMC is acting as the primary parent for her two you get siblings. I feel like the author handled those topics beautifully and also wove in a very realistic romance between the two.

Sadly this was just meh. That’s it. I have to say more but there’s really nothing more to say here. This definitely wasn’t a book I’d recommend.

Erin Hahn’s insight into the teenage mind is so unique and special. I love how she writes compassionate, strong-willed teenagers who are empowered to feel their feelings, assert themselves, and question the world they live in. EVEN IF IT BREAKS YOUR HEART echoes the themes of Hahn’s previous YA novels, where she explores teen sexuality, belonging, and difficult family relationships. I’m excited to add this one to my classroom library.

I love Erin book she is a long time favorite author of mine. She knows how to give detail and character building so well. I would recommend her work to everyone in my personal life

I really wanted to like this book. I didn’t know if it was the setting or the story but I had a hard time connecting or rooting for any of the characters.

This was a very heartfelt YA romance that deals with grief, family trauma, finding your own path, and finding love along the way. It's kind of enemies to friends to lovers if you squint. I, personally, thought the pacing in this book was a bit off. Everything happened too quickly with the feelings and the characters were refusing to recognize their obvious feelings being reciprocated OBVIOUSLY from the other person.

The side characters were sweet, the ranch setting and rodeo moments were fun. I think I wanted more angst overall. Also, this book mentions the pandemic which is one of MY least favorite things that has started being written into books nowadays. If you don't mind it, this book should be fine, but it always pulls me right out of a story.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for my ARC!

Even If It Breaks Your Heart by Erin Hahn is a heartfelt exploration of dreams, resilience, and love set against a music-filled backdrop. Hahn’s storytelling and characters will resonate with anyone who has ever chased a big dream.

Perfect for fans of contemporary romance with a love for music and stories about following your heart.

This was a cute YA romance with additional depth because of what Case and Winnie are facing in their personal lives. I appreciated that Hahn created teen characters that acted more mature, but they both had reason to, so it didn't feel inauthentic. This had notes of a John Green or Jeff Zentner, but a bit more romance forward.

This book was very cute! It was such a sweet story and it felt like such a good read for a cool, fall week! I enjoyed every minute of it.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read and review an advanced copy of this novel. I highly enjoyed it and will be recommending it to others.

This read was super sweet and adorable! I loved Winnie and Case! This was a quick and easy read for me. It was definitely a book I’d recommend- even if it’s not my all time favorite.

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for granting me early access! You had me at rodeo with this book. I love a unique setting and this one delivered. These characters and this story is going to stick with me.

Erin, how dare you make me feel my own feelings and leak from the eyes! All the stars!

Even If It Breaks Your Heart is a beautiful story of finding your way back to living when the darkness of grief and trauma feel like they will consume you. Author Erin Hahn has a magical way with words and takes you on a journey of discovery where you might learn a bit about yourself as the characters do the same.

I loved Case and Winnie so much. The evolution of their relationship felt natural and sweet and was everything first love should be. I saw so much of myself in Winnie and the pressure she felt to take care of others.

I will be recommending this to anyone who will listen and can’t wait to read more from the author.

Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press (Wednesday Books) and Erin Hahn for an early review copy. These are my honest thoughts.

Pitched to me as Chestnut springs but make it YA - it was a sad but fun read. I didn't love it, but it was worth the read.

This book broke my heart and peaced it back together. I loved this romance and the coming of age portion. Erin Hahn is such a brilliant writer.

Think Chestnut Springs, but make it YA.

Erin Hahn calls this her "sad rodeo" book, and that was definitely true, but it was also a gorgeous love story and a beautiful story about recovering from grief and loss. This is now my new favorite Erin Hahn book, she was able to capture my heart with these characters without any warning. Not just the romantic couple, but also the friendships! Easily became one of my favorite Friends-to-Lover novels!

Erin Hahn's Even If It Breaks Your Heart is a poignant exploration of grief, friendship, and the pursuit of dreams. The novel follows Case Michaels, a young rodeo rider grappling with the loss of his best friend, Walker. Driven by a list of unfulfilled ambitions left behind by Walker, Case embarks on a perilous journey of self-discovery.

Hahn's writing is both tender and raw, capturing the complexities of grief with authenticity. The slow-burn romance between Case and Winnie, a free-spirited horsewoman, adds depth and warmth to the story. Their connection is built on mutual support and understanding, creating a believable and heartwarming relationship.

While the novel effectively delves into themes of loss and healing, some readers might find the pacing slightly uneven. However, the emotional core of the story is undeniable, and Hahn's ability to portray the characters' struggles with authenticity is commendable.

Ultimately, Even If It Breaks Your Heart is a heartwarming and uplifting story about finding strength in the face of adversity. It's a novel that will resonate with readers who appreciate stories of friendship, love, and the power of human resilience.

4.5 stars. I’ve read Erin Hahn’s adult romance so I shouldn’t be surprised that her YA books will also rip your heart right out. In a good way. Watching Winnie and Case grow up and find each other was a delight. Plus horses. So many horses.

Thanks to Netgalley, the publisher, and the author for the ARC to review. All opinions are my own.

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cowboy romance but young adult!!! loved this so much

- rodeo & horses galore
- rich boy/poor girl
- grief and healing
- slow burn
- terrible parents
- she works for his family
- a cute 10-year-old genius
- no third act breakup
- rock music