ARC Review: The Things We Leave Unfinished by Rebecca Yarros

About the Book:

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My Review:

This is my first Rebecca Yarros novel, and it certainly won’t be my last. The Things We Leave Unfinished is a captivating and immersive read that introduces two unforgettable romances. The story switches between the present day and the days of World War II seamlessly and with distinct narration and characterization in both.

I loved Scarlett and Jameson’s epic love story, set amidst the chaos of war. They had a once in a lifetime love that defied so many obstacles. War, distance, and family expectations continually threatened their happily-ever-after. They met at a time when everything was uncertain, and they proved that their love was lasting and true.

Though I love their classic, timeless tale, the contemporary romance between Scarlett and Noah stood out for me. The enemies to lovers trope is one of my favorites, and I loved the way Scarlett and Noah’s relationship developed. They have amazing chemistry and a shared love of Georgia’s great-grandmother. I love their witty banter, fun and revealing texts, and their feelings for each other. Noah and Georgia are as drawn together as Scarlett and Jameson were all those years ago, even though their lives are very different.

As Georgia heals from a failed marriage and tries to redefine herself as a newly single and independent woman, she also has to deal with the loss of her great-grandmother and the subsequent publication of Scarlett’s most treasured story. Add Noah, the arrogant, wealthy, ridiculously handsome, and charming author who wants to finish Scarlett’s story, as well as a demanding and greedy mother, and Georgia’s life is turned totally upside down.

Though their lives are very different and take place in different decades, there are several similarities between the characters in each. I found it interesting how much Georgia and Noah paralleled the older couple. Like Scarlett, Georgia has a turbulent and toxic relationship with all but one female in her family, and Georgia’s family has self-serving expectations, much like Scarlett’s. The women are both independent and intelligent and willing to take risks in order to be true to themselves.

Unlike the women, Noah and Jameson both have larger and more loving connections with their families. The men are both strong and confident and willing to put their hearts on their sleeves to show their women how in love they are. Both couples have strong connections and love deeply, and their use of correspondence helps to strengthen and deepen their bonds.

I also love the exploration of different kinds of love. Sisterly bonds, passionate but short love affairs, deep and true love, and familial love abound throughout the story. I love the messages about love and life and the bonds of family and think Yarros did an exceptional job of highlighting the variety of fulfilling relationships in life. No love is the same, and the author explores this idea powerfully and poignantly.

This is a heart-warming, romantic, and heart-breaking read that took me on an emotional roller coaster ride, and I enjoyed every minute of it. From the harsh realities of war to the painful loss of one you love to the hope of new love, Yarros takes the reader on an epic and unforgettable journey. Thanks so much to NetGalley, Entangled, and the author for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.

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Rating:

Favorite Lines:

I was supposed to know this woman-i felt it with every fiber of my being.

Do not mistake my sacrifices for smiling compliance.

Sometimes the only way to keep what you need is to let go of what you want.

Tragedy has a way of breaking gentle things and soldering the shattered pieces together in ways we can’t control. Some, it remakes into stronger, more resilient creatures. In others, the pieces fuse before they heal, leaving only razor-sharp edges.

Recommendations:

Readers of historical fiction, specifically related to World War II, will enjoy this book.