'When Life Happened' by Jewel E. Ann is a captivating story about Parker Cruse, a young woman who navigates through life's unexpected twists and turns. The book delves into themes of forgiveness, acceptance, and love, showcasing the complexities of relationships and the messy beauty of life. With a unique and surprising plot, the author skillfully weaves together a tale that is both emotional and thought-provoking. Through well-developed characters and witty dialogue, the story explores the challenges of moving on from betrayal and finding oneself amidst life's uncertainties.

Characters:

Characters are well-drawn with relatable flaws, making them endearing and authentic.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is both entertaining and emotionally resonant, featuring humorous elements alongside deep emotional insights.

Plot/Storyline:

The story revolves around themes of betrayal, recovery, and unexpected life events.

Setting:

Set in a small-town Iowa environment that enhances the story's relatability.

Pacing:

The pacing varies strategically, balancing emotional buildup with faster plot developments.

The smallest room belonged to the biggest loser. Nothing said pathetic like blue polka-dot bedding on a white trundle bed surrounded by four walls pinned with rock-band posters and famous volleyball p...

Notes:

The protagonist, Parker Cruse, experiences betrayal from her twin sister, Piper, who marries Parker's high school sweetheart.

Parker's revenge includes a humorous yet painful moment involving laxatives on Piper's wedding day.

Two years after the betrayal, Parker is trying to move on and become independent, albeit in a farmhouse close to her family and sister.

The story introduces Gus Westman, her sexy neighbor, who complicates her plans as he is married to a difficult woman.

Parker has strong feelings against cheating due to her past experiences, which shapes her interactions with Gus.

The book has surprising plot twists that challenge the reader's expectations of a typical romance.

Levi, another character, enters the story and adds complexity to Parker's emotional journey.

The author, Jewel E. Ann, is praised for her engaging writing style and humor, which accompanies the emotional weight of the story.

Parker's relationship with her family and her growth throughout the story are significant themes.

Readers note that the book delves into complex human emotions and the messiness of life, making it relatable and thought-provoking.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

The book includes significant themes that may trigger readers, such as cheating, loss, and emotional distress.

Has Romance?

Romance plays a significant and central role throughout the narrative.

explicit steam level

From The Publisher:

Parker Cruse despises cheaters. It might have something to do with her boyfriend sleeping with her twin sister. After a wedding day prank involving a strong laxative, that ends the already severed relationship between the twins, Parker decides to grow up and act twenty-six. Step One: Move out of her parents' house. Step Two: Find a job. Opportunity strikes when she meets her new neighbor, Gus Westman. He's an electrician with Iowa farm-boy values and a gift for saying her name like it's a dirty word. He also has a wife. Sabrina Westman, head of a successful engineering firm, hires Parker as her personal assistant. Driven to be the best assistant ever, Parker vows to stay focused, walk the dog, go to the dry cleaners, and not kiss Gus-again. Step Three: Don't judge. Step Four: Remember- when life happens, it does it in a heartbeat.

Ratings (11)

Incredible (4)
Loved It (3)
Liked It (1)
Did Not Like (2)
Hated It (1)

Reader Stats (29):

Read It (10)
Want To Read (14)
Not Interested (5)

1 comment(s)

LeBlanc612

Incredible

1 month

Very well written. My heart broke (and mended) several times.

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When Life Happened

Jewel E. Ann