Page 11 - FEB2025

February 2025
By BRittaNy amalfi
In the spirit of Valentine’s Day, I went ahead and picked a charming romance novel for this month’s Book of the Month. You all know that I have been on a pretty big thriller kick, but I’m nothing if not versatile, when it comes to reading, and I certainly love to throw in a lighthearted ro- mance book. You know, expand- ing horizons and all of that. So, without further ado, the pick for this month is called If Only You, written by Chloe Liese.
The swoon-worthy story fol- lows longtime good girl Ziggy Bergman and brooding bad boy Sebastian Gauthier as they navi- gate their preferred public image. Being the youngest player on an elite soccer team and the baby of the family, Ziggy is tired of consistently being treated like a child. And with his rocky public image, Sebastian’s hockey career is in jeopardy, so when these two unlikely souls come together to fake a public friendship, they both might get what they bargained for.
I’m a sucker for a slow-burn
sports romance, but this particular one had a unique twist that sheds light on neurodivergence and chronic illness. Liese created a story that highlights very real ex- periences and circumstances that are not typically reflected
in romance novels. One of the characters is on the autism spectrum dis- order, and one receives a diagnosis of celiac dis- ease, and the readers are able to see through their perspectives how they navigate these truths while also dealing with deep emotional connec- tions. If Only You is a feel-good romance that shows anyone and every- one can feel passionate about something.
If Only You was the delightful, heartwarm-
ing escape, I needed to
believe in lighthearted romance. I adored both
the main characters
and the secondary characters, who added more of a humor- ous touch to the book. Ziggy is a powerhouse of a woman, and her character develops throughout the story as she steps into her own and gains the confidence she’s always strived for. Her indepen- dence and determination, cou- pled with her lighthearted humor, contrast Sebastian’s brooding bad-boy exterior, and let’s be hon- est, who doesn’t love the sunshine and grump trope?
Sebastian’s POV chapters were also captivating, as we learned why his destructive ways affect his life. An exceptional hockey player with swoon-worthy good looks, Sebastian Gauthier, is a resident
dearing and empowering, with their chemistry and contrasting personalities adding depth to the story. As their individual transfor- mations come to light, the narra- tive depicts the power of personal
growth, love, and the importance of embracing one’s true self. This book is the perfect reminder that, no matter the past, there’s always room for new beginnings and sec- ond chances.
NEWFOUNDLAKELIFE.COM Page 11 Book of the Month: If Only You By Chloe Liese
heartbreaker with damaging tendencies that land him in hot water. As he experiences Ziggy, with her soft exterior masking the dominant force trying to claw itself out, he begins to accept his past and work on creating a brighter future.
If Only You is a captivating read that blends humor, heart, and growth, making it a must- read for fans of lighthearted romance. Ziggy and Sebastian’s dynamic journey is both en-
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