This is a debut novel by British author Julie Forester. The plot follows successful architect Jamie Barker’s life after she accidentally drops her keys setting off a chain reaction of life changing events. With London at the background, the story succeeds to describe the city with its beautiful scenery and some hidden gems. Having lived in London for seven years, I enjoyed the depictions of my former hometown but some non UK readers might get lost with the British vocabulary and some local cultural references.

The novel is written in third person from both main characters’ point of view with the exception of a short excerpt written from Jamie’s sister pov which could have been avoided altogether. There is a great amount of drama and angst which is not my cup of tea but some other readers surely will enjoy. It covers family issues, friendship conflicts, sexual harrasment and the ubiquitous crazy ex. With so much happening, the romance was not prominent and I couldn’t feel the chemistry between the main characters. The fade to black sex scenes don’t help to create intimacy either. Additionally, some secondary characters are a bit flat and stereotyped, specially Jamie’s ex. The book ends with some unresolved issues and a cliffhanger so expect a second part coming sometime in the future.

Overall an ok read from a debut author, specially if you are interested in dramatic fiction. 3 stars.

ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.