This is an audiobook review. The audiobook is narrated by Soneela Nankani. This was not my first book from this narrator and she is one that I enjoy, so having her as the narrator is definitely a plus for the book.

The story is told in alternating viewpoints and timelines. In general, the story is told from Nikki’s point of view in the present and Tara’s in the past (though Tara does have some present-day chapters towards the end). I always love dual POV, because I feel it helps you get to know the character better. I am not always a fan of dual timelines, because I feel like it doesn’t always allow for a smooth story. But in this case, the author handled the timeline shifts very well and the past helped to create more of an understanding of Tara’s motives.

Even with the dual POV, it felt like Nikki was the main character of the story. Everything revolved around her relationships, with her father and sister, with her fiancé and his parents, and most especially with Tara, her mother. I felt a slight disconnect with her though, because she was so obsessed with her mother’s approval. I do understand that there is a cultural element at play, but it’s more than that in Nikki’s case, and I’m not sure if I ever really knew where that came from. She does evolve as the story progresses.

I do, however, understand Tara completely and wholly appreciate why she feels the way she does. Tara was so crushed under expectations that she lost a huge part of herself and was paralyzed by that loss. Did she make mistakes? Of course, but I think she has the most growth throughout the story.

I’ll touch on the side characters briefly, starting with Jay. I had mixed feelings about him and I’m still not sure about how I feel about his and Nikki’s relationship. He is committed to Nikki and communicates his needs fairly well, he knows his parents are toxic, but still allows them to treat Nikki and her family the way they do without calling them out. Ultimately I think he’s a good guy, but definitely flawed.

As I mentioned, Jay’s parents are toxic, especially his mother. Nikki’s sister is fine, I liked her. Nikki’s dad is a problem in so many ways. He’s selfish and treated Tara terribly by going back on promises and always putting his own needs first. And the stunt he pulls at the end is crazy.

All that being said, I enjoyed this story and look forward to more from this author.

Disclaimer: I received an ALC for review consideration though NetGalley, on behalf of the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.