Our Way

When I sat down to write this review, I still wasn’t sure if this book was going to get five stars or three stars from me, that’s how strong my feelings are. Technically speaking, this is one of the best books I have read this year, hands down. But emotionally, I had a lot of issues with the level of OW/OM drama. However, I can honestly say I have never read a romance that played out at all like this one does, and I will surely be thinking about it months from now. The story is beautifully written, emotional, intense, and a delicate balance of right/wrong. You can tell that these two are perfect for each other, but their path to happily ever after is... complicated.

I will tell you right now that there is a glaring omission in the blurb. I don't consider this to be a spoiler because the reader finds out right away, but... keep that in mind before you continue reading this review. The story follows Nathan and Eliza, two friends who have gotten closer and closer over the last ten years. When they first met, there was attraction on Eliza's end, but Nathan quickly made it clear that she didn't have the right equipment to interest him. That's right, Nathan has only ever been with men. But as Eliza and Nathan have gotten closer - probably too close for two platonic friends - things start to change for him. Not wanting to destroy the most important relationship of his life by making a rash decision, Nathan is determined to look deeper at his sexual orientation.

Since that is the heart of this book, it seems too important to leave out of the blurb. Nathan and Eliza are clearly meant to spend their lives together, it's just a matter of what they're meant to be to each other. The level of depth and emotion there is what makes this book; these two have a rock solid foundation of friendship - even if there are aspects of their lives that they've kept secret from each other. I loved that there was a clear catalyst for the shift in their relationship, and I empathized with Nathan along the way. But I did NOT always agree with his decisions. Or Eliza's, for that matter. There is an incredible amount of tension and drama in a relationship that's been so easy for so long. It's also an unashamedly STEAMY book, so be prepared for your Kindle to burn up as the story progresses. This love story is not for the faint of heart, but the reward is worth the struggle. I don't consider this to be a safe read in any way, shape, or form, but it's so well written that I will begrudgingly admit that I'm willing to overlook a few issues that would normally trip me up BIG TIME. I received an ARC (then purchased it for my collection), and am voluntarily leaving a review of this sexy, angsty, friends to lovers romance.

If you do nothing else to ease your fractured soul this summer, you must read Our Way, a unique modern, deeply resonant and hopelessly romantic story. Our Way is a subversive s3xy twist on Pride and Prejudice that hits you in all the feels. My kindle needed windshield wipers for the deluge of tears that ending unleashed. This is a good story. If you love TL Swan’s storytelling ways, you will CRAVE Nathan and Elize. 

This book is TOO DAMN GOOD! It’s brilliant in a low key, under the radar OOF! to the solar plexus kinda way. I could not put it down. If you savor true love’s journey, if you enjoy wry humor and a dirty mouth, if you relish personal transformation, and REAL conversations between men and women with love in their hearts and lust on their lips, you will delight in this very modern book.

You know those stories that twist up your throat, and you can feel your emotions slowly sliding up your neck into your ears, and then suddenly you're overwhelmed and the tears start running, your nose itches and you can not look away? You just NEED to know what happens next? Read Elize's story. She's not perfect and I love her. Love love love her. I don't want to say a word about plot. It's really compelling.

Our Way is soooo not formulaic. It’s very very different from her other stories. Nathan Mercer is a revelation, a top shelf book boyfriend in every way.

I was not expecting the charmsicle that is Nathan Mercer. Entirely unique, Nathan is like no other leading man I’ve read before. The lists of the perfect book boyfriends are long and varied, but rarely does one come across a hero who’s far from perfect, yet so immaculately well-suited for the heroine. His mind, it’s filthy and wise, funny and charming, and patient. And flawed, very deeply flawed. But he knows it. What a twist that is. He’s not in denial like a billion other broken men, and he’s not cruel or closed off. Just the opposite… gah!

Read this book immediately.

Our Way is a unique and very sensual love story too, with an addictive narrative and hot s3xy times that leave you breathless. The plot is so taut, and these aren’t just sultry moments, these are soul-stealing scenes that light up all your emotions and give you a great ride. I am stuck in the afterglow of this lovely story. It’s a beautiful bubble to be in.

Frankly, I think there are more highlighted passages on my kindle than unhighlighted. A rarity for me. And that’s the thing. TL Swan has a rep for long books with push and pull and lots of drama. THIS BOOK!!!! There’s not a wasted word! Every scene, every passage has a moment. It’s so unique and very adult. Of course this is only my opinion and I really truly recommend this book.

First and foremost this is a great story, rooted in reality with memorable characters that leave you breathless and craving more pages. You almost relish the massive book hangover that follows.