Finally...FINALLY we get Rooney and Axel's story and goodness, it was absolute perfection. So many times when authors write series, their books become formulaic, following the same beats and pattern that are predictable. Chloe Liese's books don't. Each new book feels fresh, different and truly fits the Bergman sibling that it showcases.
Needing a break from law school to focus on her health, Rooney sets off to spend alone time at the Bergman A-frame. She runs smack dab into Axel, who's been fixing up the house, while trying to hide its true state of disaster from his entire family. With an artistic creative block, Axel's art is not selling and he has to come up with a plan to get the money to pay for the repairs quickly.
Axel has been a man of mystery in the first three books and it was a treat to get into his head throughout the book. Nobel and stoic, Axel craves to take care of things for his family, despite their sometimes rocky relationship. Ever the loaner, he's constantly at war with himself, battling the feelings for Rooney he's kept deep for two years. Axel wants to love, but he doesn't think he's capable of it. To his surprise, Rooney is also yearning for a sense of belonging and purpose. The two fit together beautifully. Axel comforts her insecurities and knows the right things to say in Rooney's moments of doubt. And Rooney truly sees Axel for who he is - imperfections and all - and still loves every bit of his being.
Chloe Liese is the QUEEN of slow burn romances! This pair has been doing a careful dance around each other for two years and the way they pine for each other and fight their feelings is just so good. Their romance is angsty and done beautifully as Rooney and Axel figure out their feelings for each other and what love looks like and means to them. I am always curious how a marriage of convenience trope will play out in contemporary romances and With You Forever does it perfectly. It's believable and realistic.
While we get small glimpses of some of the other Bergman siblings throughout the book, we get to know the A-frame and its neighbors more intimately. Wherever this A-frame and tiny town are located, I need to travel there. I can see it so clearly in my mind and it screams comfort and safety. I loved the inclusion of new characters. Skylar, Axel's goddaughter, is a hoot and adds impeccable comedic timing to every scene she enters. And the animals and Axel's relationship with them warmed my heart.
Once again, the short glimpses we get of Viggo is making me fall in love with his character more and more! He is such a big personality and I love the way he meets his brothers where they are to help them understand their feelings through romance novels.
There is truly only one word to describe this book: PERFECT. It's a hug for your heart and makes you believe in love for everyone. I couldn't have dreamed a better story for Rooney and Axel. I didn't want the book to end. If you haven't read this series, WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?!?!?!
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the advanced copy.
With You Forever publishes September 14.
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