Before Us

Jewel E. Ann

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'Before Us' by Jewel E. Ann is a poignant and emotionally complex story that delves into themes of love, loss, grief, and healing. The narrative follows Zach, who loses the love of his life to cancer and embarks on a journey of self-discovery and finding love again. The book intricately explores the dynamics of unrequited love, soulmates, and the complexities of navigating relationships after loss. Through well-developed characters like Zach, Suzie, and Emersyn, the author weaves a story that is both heart-wrenching and heartwarming, touching on themes of love, kindness, and resilience.

Jewel E. Ann's writing style in 'Before Us' is described as captivating, evocative, and thought-provoking. The book is praised for its ability to evoke a wide range of emotions in readers, from laughter to tears, and for its exploration of deep and timeless love stories. The author skillfully navigates delicate themes with a light touch, creating a narrative that is both engaging and emotionally resonant, leaving a lasting impact on readers long after they have finished the book.

Characters:

The characters are deeply developed, portraying complex emotions and relationships shaped by love, grief, and growth.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is authentic and emotive, effectively conveying the depth of the characters' feelings and experiences.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot navigates the complexities of love and healing, exploring themes of grief through a unique love triangle and the journey of moving forward after loss.

Setting:

The setting emphasizes domestic life intertwined with themes of caregiving, loss, and recovery over several years.

Pacing:

The pacing is thoughtful and realistic, allowing for gradual character and emotional development.

Notes:

Jewel E. Ann is known for her ability to portray emotional complexities of love.

Her stories explore the messy realities of life like adversity, loss, and love.

Characters in her books often face realistic challenges and growth.

The author has a way of making readers feel deeply impacted by her authentic prose.

Before Us is described as a 'trust the process' book where the journey is crucial.

The pacing of Before Us is slow and realistic, similar to real life.

The story includes themes of grief, healing, and the potential for multiple soulmates in one's life.

The book features a unique love triangle that involves a deceased spouse.

Suzie's character is beloved and plays a vital role in the emotional development of others.

Emersyn, another key character, represents resilience and the journey to self-acceptance.

The book tackles topics like terminal illness, homelessness, and the need for health insurance.

The narrative spans several years, showcasing the evolution of relationships and love.

The emotional depth sometimes leads readers to cry while reading, often described as 'ugly crying.'

The book is characterized as women's fiction with romance as a subplot rather than the main focus.

Themes of platonic love and friendship are also explored through Emersyn and Suzie's relationship.

Many readers highlight that Before Us offers hope and healing alongside its portrayal of loss and grief.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Significant triggers include grief, terminal illness, epilepsy, and themes surrounding loss and complicated relationships.

Has Romance?

While romance is present, it is intertwined with themes of grief and healing, making it secondary to the emotional journey.

implied steam level

From The Publisher:

I never saw him coming.

I didn't know what would happen after my client found me sleeping in my car.

I'd been cleaning his house as his wife was dying.

I didn't expect them to invite me to live with them.

I didn't expect Suzie to become my lifeline-until she was gone.

I didn't expect him to ask me to marry him when he found out I needed medical insurance.

I didn't expect to fall in love with a grieving man.

There are so many reasons to keep my distance from Zach. Every tender moment secreted away.

When we're not together, I miss the man I call husband.

Does he miss his wife? If so, which one?

Ratings (8)

Incredible (4)
Loved It (2)
Liked It (2)

Reader Stats (13):

Read It (8)
Want To Read (4)
Not Interested (1)

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