POWER FORWARD

Jackson Wilde has always been the one who got away. The one who was the reason why I could never completely hand my heart over to my ex- wife, Zara. It was because he still owned it. Even now. Almost fourteen years later, he still has a tight hold on me. And I have no idea what to do with that.

If I’m reading a second-chance romance, I expect to see character growth. Show me they’ve learned from their mistakes and become better versions of themselves, otherwise history is bound to repeat. And I’m happy to say this book delivered exactly that 🥳🥳

Jackson and Hayden broke up years ago, went their separate ways, married and divorced, and then found themselves reunited at Blaine and Alex’s wedding (so happy for them, by the way 🥰🥰). The love they thought they’d buried sparks back to life. Their breakup hadn’t been pretty, but Hayden was determined to apologize first and then see if they had a shot—if Jackson was willing to give him the chance.

This book had no business being this cute. I really enjoyed Jackson and Hayden’s story. They each had their own struggles, but they still managed to show up for one another when it mattered most. I loved that the focus wasn’t on who they used to be, but on who they are now, rediscovering each other and figuring out how to build a relationship—and a family—together. Their love was so beautiful ❤️❤️

Fuck, I’ve missed this. I’ve missed him. I’ll never regret my relationship with Laura. We had some great years together, and she’s the mother of my kids, but what we had pales compared to the connection I have with Hayden. The strength of the pull between us is magnetic. He lights me up like nobody else. He knows my body better than I know myself.

Hayden’s relationship with Ryan and Isabella was absolutely precious 😍😍 Isabella was adorable, while Ryan stood out as an incredible big brother and son. I saw another review mention that Ryan felt “too mature” for an eight (or maybe ten?) year old, but I have to disagree 🤷‍♀️🤷‍♀️ His maturity made perfect sense given both his upbringing and his personality. Some kids are naturally quiet and observant, while others are loud little rays of sunshine—Ryan just happened to be the former, and it felt so genuine. And the epilogue? Easily one of the cutest things I’ve ever read in my life 😊😊

I also deeply appreciated the portrayal of Hayden’s mental health struggles. He was actively seeking the help he needed, and I empathized with him so much 😔😔 The story didn’t shy away from showing the hard work, the setbacks, and the side effects of medication. His depression wasn’t magically cured by love—it was portrayed as an ongoing battle, and that made it one of the most authentic, emotionally impactful depictions of mental health I’ve read 🥺🥺

Of course, the Chicago Thunder guys were as fantastic as ever, and Hayden also had support from some wonderful women in his life—his ex-wife Zara included, whom I absolutely adored. The only tiny issue I had was that Jackson and Hayden spend nearly 75% of the book talking to everyone else but not enough to each other. I get that the heavy conversations aren’t easy, but I wish they’d opened up just a little sooner 😕😕

Now I’m counting down the days for Elliot’s book. Jodi, I’m begging you—please write faster. I need that book like I need air 😍😍