Unbearably Yours was an easy to read, cozy, romcom. It lacked a little bit of depth and backstory of this couple, despite the duel timelines. But I really enjoyed the nature setting and overall atmosphere of this story.

i was a little worried i wouldn’t be able to follow this story only because i have not read the previous books in the series, but i was pleasantly proved wrong! i loved this book so much and these characters are so wonderful, such a beautiful story - i will definitely reading more of elodie’s work in the future :)

OH. MY. GOD. THIS BOOK. I could NOT put this down. I am so unbearably in love with oliver and charlee.
i am such a big fan of second chance and forced proximity and this gavE ME EVERYTHING.

the end was perfect. the characters were perfect. the romance was perfect. i just can’t get over this book.

so grateful to have read this arc!

It took me a bit to get into this book, but once I did I LOVED it. So sweet and tender. Can't wait to recommend to friends and library patrons!

4.5 stars

Thank you to Netgalley for the arc!!

This was such a fun read and I just loved Charlie and Oliver. This is a second chance romance were Charlie and Oliver meet first by letters they write to each other which I swooned over. They have a chance encounter that goes wrong and then do not meet again until 5 years later. They both meet up before heading on a work related trip to the Great Bear Rainforest. We are meet with forced proximity and miscommunication from the past. Their love story is charming and cozy and I highly enjoyed this read.

“Unbearably Yours” by Elodie Colliard, is the kind of story you sit back and ponder after you are done. This is the first book I have read by this author and I will definitely look for her other books.

The plot is very different, moving back and forth in time through a series of letters written by two college journalism majors as part of a class requirement. After a fallout, they meet up unexpectedly five years later on an assignment.

While I really liked the female main character, I deeply enjoyed the author’s extremely well fleshed out male character. He doesn’t conform to the traditional romantic hero and I found that refreshing and more realistic.

This is a book well worth reading. It is full of substance, great dialogue, and explores deeper issues of feeling different in a world that isn’t always kind or doesn’t understand the struggles of anxiety and giftedness.

A very cute outdoorsy romance that is emotional and in depth. The story is told in past and present time and dual pov, which I loved. The past time is written through letters that the MC’s wrote each other and that really added a lot of depth to it all. I enjoyed myself immensely and finished it within a day.

I highly recommend this one if you’re looking for a new romance read, which is set in the beautiful Canadian outdoors and that has just the right amount of spice added to the romance as well ;)

<i>thanks so much to the publisher and netgallet for providing me with an arc of this book, in exchange for me leaving an honest review</i>.

I can’t wait to read more by this author and will revisit this world by reading the other two books that were written prior to this one. This one can be read as a standalone :)

Unbearably yours is the perfect fall romance read. I’ve always loved Eloise Colliards work but this one hit the cherry on top. It was so incredibly cozy, hot and absolutely romantic. I’m so obsessed with this story and I can’t wait for it to come out so I can rant about it nonstop. Also can we take a moment to appreciate the cover? I can always count on this artist for me to want to pick up a book

This was an easy five stars 🥹

I couldn’t get enough of Charlee and Oliver 🫶 I’m a sucker for second chance romances. I absolutely adored reading the letters Charlee and Oliver wrote each other, and seeing how their relationship blossomed. The letters are interspersed between the present-day chapters, and they brought everything full circle.

These characters are so beautifully written, with so much depth and past experiences that shaped them. There is great neurodivergent x hypersensitivity rep with Oliver & he’s the perfect cinnamon roll MMC 🥹 Charlee is an adventurous queen who perfectly complements Oliver 🫶 it was funny watching them fight their feelings for each other because they never stood a chance 🧡

🏕️ strangers to friends to lovers
🏕️ second chance
🏕️ pen pals ✍️
🏕️ forced proximity
🏕️ only one tent + sleeping bag
🏕️ small town

Someone please take me to Pine Falls, BC 🏕️🐻🌲 it sounds like a DREAM

UNBEARABLY YOURS is a deeply romantic & heartwarming love story.

What a cute romance! Set in BC in the wilderness - what more could you ask for? The autumnal cozy vibe of this book felt like being wrapped in a warm fuzzy blanket with a hot cup of tea on a rainy fall day. Loved it so much! Thank you Elodie for sending us the arc for this book!! <3

I am a sucker for a Canadian-set romance. While this one didn't have as many Canadianisms (Old Dutch boxed chips, for example), it had more of the stunning nature and wildlife found in British Columbia.

Overall, this was a lighthearted and fluffy read with the angst and drama centered around the time-jumps and letter-writing component. Why did they stop talking? Why didn't they meet up as planned? This is the primary relationship conflict and focuses heavily on the delay of information. If you are looking for an easy-reading romance with neurodivergence representation (primarily hypersensitivity and giftedness), then give this book a go.

The remainder of this review will focus on some of the aspects I didn't enjoy as much, and may be considered spoilers. CONTINUE AT YOUR OWN RISK!

My primary issue with this story is that there is a certain level of suspension of disbelief that is needed. The fact that this journalism program had a component that utilized written pen pals seemed a bit off to me. Why wasn't this done digitally? It starts in 2017, so it isn't from pre-email or online forums. I have had multiple courses that utilized online forums for peer feedback so I was having trouble getting on board with the premise from the start. I wish this had been tightened up a bit because I kept getting distracted by my disbelief. Had this been done digitally, my next concerns would not have been an issue at all. Though, letter writing does have its own level of romance so that certainly works in its favor.

Another aspect that I struggled with was that we could tell by the content of the letters that we were reading all of them. Topics were carried from one to the next, and we could tell that there were no letters between the ones we were reading. This meant that this entire relationship was based on 25 letters over the span of one year, each being maybe a page or two long in written form. Considering that they started as complete strangers, I had trouble believing that this all-encompassing, never-get-over-it relationship could develop.

Finally, another aspect I had trouble believing was that Oliver couldn't find Charlee after their letters ended. Oliver stated that he tried to find her online, but that she was completely off the grid. But yet, she had been a journalist writing and publishing stories all over the world, in the same industry as Oliver (journalism) and with the same focus (environmentalism). How could a simple Google search not bring up her pieces and therefore what company she worked for and contact information? She may not have had public social media platforms, but she certainly would have had a name online.

Thank you to Victory Editing, NetGalley, and Elodie Colliard for a digital advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

"Unbearably Yours" by Elodie Colliard is a captivating entry in the *It's Always Been You* series, blending romance and personal growth with a charming setting. The story follows Charlee and Oliver, who are reunited after a five-year separation to work on a documentary in the Great Bear Rainforest. The narrative beautifully intertwines their past, revealed through heartfelt letters, with their present-day interactions, making their journey both poignant and engaging.

The depiction of their slow-burn romance is one of the book’s strengths. Colliard excels in showing the emotional depth of Charlee and Oliver's relationship, enriched by their history and the gradual rebuilding of trust. The Great Bear Rainforest setting adds a cozy, vivid backdrop that complements the romance.

However, while the book offers a warm and satisfying read, some plot elements and tropes, like the "pen pals" and "second chance" themes, might feel familiar and predictable. Despite this, the characters are well-developed, and the romance is both sweet and sincere.

Overall, "Unbearably Yours" earns a solid 4-star rating. It’s a heartwarming story with strong character dynamics and a satisfying narrative that will appeal to fans of romance and second-chance stories.

: ̗̀➛ 4 stars

“It’s easy for a place to feel like home when you’re with the right people.”

I feel like I read this book at the exact right time. It delivered a beautiful, comforting story that filled my heart with warmth. Charlee and Oliver will linger in my thoughts for a long time.

The romance in this book was delicately woven throughout the narrative, seamlessly blending with the letters that served as a powerful reflection of Charlee and Oliver's relationship. I especially loved how their previous connection was explored, laying a rich groundwork for their rekindled romance. The pacing of the present-day chapters felt intentional, allowing the characters to slowly navigate their new relationship after a tumultuous five-year separation. Their love story is a poignant exploration of second chances, forgiveness, and the enduring power of true love, culminating in a well-deserved happily ever after.

What really stood out to me was how both characters yearn for the friendship they once shared. Oliver tries to respect Charlee’s boundaries, while Charlee fiercely guards her heart, and their efforts to reconnect are so tender and heartfelt. They are both hurting for different reasons, angry for different reasons, and trying desperately not to repeat the mistakes of the past.

I appreciated the gentle tone of this story—how it showed both characters fitting into their own worlds before coming together. The entire book had an autumnal, cozy feel, like wrapping up in a warm blanket with a mug of hot chocolate.

The only downside for me was that it included one of my least favorite tropes, and the plot was a bit predictable. But even with that, I still had an amazing time reading it and would gladly give it 4 stars.

When I say that was the best arc I've read so far I'm not even exaggerating! This was everything I wanted from the romance book and even more! Honestly, if you're looking for something cozy and sweet, for somethings beautiful and a bit heartbreaking, for somethings so real and vulnerable — this book is your choice. It was such a wholesome read, I finished it in one sitting just because I couldn't put this book down as the story kept unraveling before my eyes and I was so hooked with everything that was going on there.

Fair warning, this is the third book in the series of interconnected standalones, and it's the first book out of the series that I read. And you know what? I really want to read the first two books now as I fell in love with the characters from those books! It's not necessary to read first two books before reading this one as I was able to understand everything without previous background, which is really an amazing thing when it comes to interconnected standalones! I'm absolutely planning to read first two books soon still, because the way Elodie Colliard wrote this story left me wanting to read more of her works.

First things first, I absolutely loved both main characters — Charlee and Oliver, they were so wholesome and felt incredibly real. Like old friends whom i haven't seen for a very long time. From the very first scene Charlee was introduced she had me laughing so hard because of the funny comedic way her introduction happened! And Oli? Can I just say that he's the sweetest male main character? I loved how their story took unpredictable twists and turns, how it kept me wanting to know more, how their chemistry was basically radiating through this book and I was so obsessed with them! Also, the feeling of coziness and warmth this book brought? It's a perfect read for this period between summer and fall with the setting from this book.

The plot itself kept me intrigued as I really wanted to know what went down five years ago and if the characters would be able to move on from whatever happened between them. I loved how the main conflict was handled and resolved, it felt organic for the plot and characters and I even enjoyed that kind of miscommunication between them. again, It was organic and the miscommunication was unavoidable here, but it all paid out, in no way that miscommunication annoyed me.

From the very first moment I fell in love with Charlee, her quirks and wits. She was an amazing female main character, it's definitely impossible not to love her. She is smart, funny, so captivating, but at the same time she felt so girl-next-door-ish that I really felt like I knew her from somewhere! She had complexity and sometimes my heart was honestly breaking for her because of her backstory and how life treated her. And oh, that feisty side of Charlee, her intelligence and her ability to stand her ground really impressed me!

Now Oli Oli Oli! He's a golden retriever, soft boy, vulnerable sweet soul. I wasn't aware of neurodivergence and this book [and Oliver's character specifically] educated me on the matter. It's really amazing when we learn new things through the books, so this one was a totally pleasant surprise for me. Oliver is really an amazing male main character who made me giggle and kick my legs with his charming personality and beautiful words. His soul is literally something else, and he himself is a definition of down bad. His story was so carefully crafted as it broke my heart and then mended it back together again.

The romance between Charlee and Oli was so cute! It definitely was swoon-worthy, so emotional and heartwarming [even with a little bit heartbreak]. Their letters were something else entirely, Getting to know them through those letters and seeing how similar they are in the way they see the world, how their life goals intertwine, how strong and alluring their bond is — the complexity of this story with dual timeline really played its part here. I feel like their love is so pure, but at the same time so intense. The chemistry and tension in the first half of this book really pulled a number on me as I was desperately craving for more. some scenes in which they were opening up to each other made me feel like an intruder as their connection was so vulnerable and soft in those little moments, which once again proves that chemistry in this book was so electrifying and tangible.

It feels like this book found me when I needed it most, It's like it answered to my calling and presented me with this beautiful cozy story that warmed my heart. Charlee and Oliver will stay with me for a while and I feel like I'll definitely be rereading this book this fall just to feel those emotions again!

Charlee and Oliver exchange letters during university without knowing who they are. And they fall in love and want to meet. But Oliver never shaw. Five years later, they have to work together for a documentary.
I liked where the story take place and learn a lot about it! The letters were sweet and their connection beautiful. I spend a nice time reading this story!

Elodie Colliard is a new to me author, and I enjoyed this a lot!

The cover captured me right away, it's honestly adorable and I love the fall vibes and the color and the art and everything about it. IF we're judging books by their covers, this would be one of the best!

I loved so much about the book. The setting was amazing, loved Pine Falls and I want to visit it. Oliver and Charlee are adorable. This is the definition of a cozy read, it was so heartwarming! Oliver honestly is my favorite type of MMC, and not enough books give enough love to the men who are gentle and nerdy. I really loved him.

Definitely recommend this book! And will have to take a look at Elodie Colliards backlist after this :)

With a cover like that, you know this is going to be a fantastic read. Elodie Colliard writes love like it's a symphony. Charlee and Oliver were once academic penpals who fell in love over letters. Five years later, they both walk into the same conference room, shocked to see each other again. A second chance romance that will tear at your heartstrings. Set in the British Columbia's rainforests, this book has an incredible backdrop, acting as another character in this wild romance.

This book was both hilarious and adorable! Eloise’s writing pulled me in from the first line and kept me hooked till the end. I read this book in one sitting.

I loved the characters growth and dynamics.

I can’t wait to read more of Elodies books

thank you Elodie and Netgalley for this arc, this definitely is a fav and argh .... broke and healed my heart.

This has everything going for it, and while I lobe a second chance romance, it's also a story of rebuilding trust and friendship. All while dealing with grief, no matter how recent or long ago it was. And this was a slow burn, and it well worth the wait

Charlee was such a fun character, and her job sounds amazing. And she probably has THE most memorable entrance ever 🤭🤭

Oliver... I love him. I think he's my fav mmc. He is someone who wears his heart in his sleeve, and he's honest about his emotions.

I love the idea of pen pals, and falling in love with each other's words... this seems like such an old fashioned idea, but in a world of technology, this was romantic.

T R O P E S

🤎pen pals in college
🤎dual timelines (in letters)
🤎friends to lovers
🤎slow burn
🤎second chance romance
🤎no third act breakup
🤎found family
🤎cinnamon roll mmc
🤎it's always been you.


And thanks Elodie...I NEED TO VISIT CANADA AND SEE THE SPIRIT BEARS !

And we see characters from previous books and I love it !

Charlee is a journalist covering climate change for Wild Planet, a global monthly publication that covers issues facing the planet (think Nat Geo). She is very direct and a vagabond who travels the world for her next story. She hasn't put down roots in the 5 years she has had the job and always likes to be on the go.

Oliver is also a journalist who works for Wild Planet but he also holds his wilderness and remote first aid certification to assist people who want to hike and need guidance into the Great Bear Rainforest. His true desire is to buy back his grandparents restaurant in his hometown of Pine Falls in British Columbia, where he also lives.

We find out through a series of letters from 5 years ago that these two were paired together for a school assignment where they had a pen pal they had to send articles to to help critique and hone their writing skills. Although they never met because they lived in different places they became friends and eventually fell in love with each over their year of correspondence (Very You’ve Got Mail!) They planned to meet but Oliver never showed up to their meeting place and they lost touch.
Charlee and Oliver and both contacted separately by their bosses that a TV show wants to come and film a docuseries in the Great Bear Rainforest and this contract could help save their magazine as print media is on the way out and money has been tight. Charlee’s Toronto branch is on the verge of closing and this may be their last hope so she jumps at the chance. Oliver is not convinced at first but the money he is going to get for this adventure will help him get the restaurant back.

When they meet and realize who the other journalist is, tensions rise and old feelings resurface. Charlee is holding onto anger and resentment to Oliver for never showing up and Oliver desperately wants to avoid Charlee but realizes that he can't stay away and he still has feelings for her. When the truth comes out, can old wounds finally heal and will it lead them together again?

Overall thoughts? I really liked it! The first chapter had me cackling (you lost it?!?!) I love characters that don't get embarrassed easily and can adapt and go with the flow.

The long lost pen pals angle was such a cute way to introduce us to their history without a flashback or a wordy character monologue. These letters literally show these two falling in love and are so poised and enchant the reader to understand what these two meant to each other.

Present day, clearly these two have a connection and are visually attracted to each other. The emotional link they forged through the letters was deep and made their initial meeting very tense and I was filled with anticipation. I loved it! As they spent more time together they seemed to fall into a truce and mutual agreement but I would have liked them to confront those old wounds sooner so they could move forward or at least have him grovel or push back a little bit at her anger. I wanted him to defend himself and make her question what she thought she knew. I wanted them to start to learn from each other again sooner and slowly build up to a second chance romance. It felt really quick and some situations felt forced (like the bond fire) but the chemistry between these two was undeniable.

Shoutout to Emile the mail man who was the scene stealer in this book!


Huge thanks to NetGalley and Victory Editing Net Galley co-op for sharing this book’s digital advanced review copy with me in exchange for an honest review.

I read this book through a digital ARC from NetGalley
Author: Elodie Colliard
Genre: Romance
Troupe: Second Chance Romance, Forced Proximity