2.4 stars

Deidre Collins has one wish - to becoming me a published writer. But when she takes her shot and it doesn’t happen for her (she literally gives it ONE chance, with her first novel…nothing like high expectations!) she goes into a deep depression which leads her to suicide watch at a psych hospital.

Her first night there she meets Max Fletcher, a young man who is dealing with his own issues and is also waiting to be admitted. They hang out, talk and connect for one night then go their separate ways.

Deidre ultimately moves to a small town in Illinois where she teaches behaviorally challenged students. One of her students, Spencer Graham, has a mother who is a famous writer. Deidre makes a deal with her; she will tutor Spencer and look out for him at school if Eleanor will help Deidre with her writing. Things go well, until Max, a New York producer, suddenly reappears in Deidre’s life.

I honestly didn’t get this at all. Deidre and Max spent a few hours together years ago and suddenly are bonded for life? Everyone is using everyone except for Spencer. No one is likable here. This wasn’t for me.

This compelling novel captures the raw struggles of artistic ambition and the unpredictable paths of human connection. Deirdre Collins is a deeply relatable protagonist whose dream of publishing a book is both her driving force and her greatest heartbreak. Her journey from creative despair to personal renewal is rendered with empathy and nuance, particularly as she finds purpose in working with at-risk teens, channeling her pain into compassion for others.

The reappearance of Max Fletcher, once a beacon of hope and now a symbol of betrayal, adds a tense and emotional layer to the narrative. His promise of publishing connections is seductive, but Deirdre’s discovery of his plagiarism forces her to confront her ideals and past. The author deftly explores themes of mental health, artistic integrity, and the resilience of the human spirit.

Poignant and thought-provoking, this novel reflects on the complexities of creativity, the power of redemption, and the painful beauty of finding one’s voice. Fans of character-driven fiction and literary dramas will find much to savor in this heartfelt and emotionally resonant story.

The publisher provided ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.