Reviewed by Booksbystarlightandshadows
This was a lot sweeter than I thought it would be. It's not quite Hallmark coded and there are darker themes (relating to off page events in the past) but when Em stumbled into Wishbone Tattoo looking for a job and fit in like a missing puzzle piece, the found family aspect kicks in straight away and is what kept me hooked. The insta-love does have a delayed start as Eli and Em are both working through baggage from their past but there is no doubt these two are made for each other. Ella Lynch does a stellar job with showcasing Em's development after escaping from her mentally abusive ex and her bright and bubbly narration worked really with the people pleasing front Em puts on to start with. The nerd in me was rooting for her; Star Trek just doesn't get enough love! I enjoyed Aaron Shedlock's accent work with the MMCs too; Eli's cajun drawl was on point but I think Leo may have been my favourite.
The focus is on Eli and Em in this book but the minute the Wishbone family started that group chat I was all in on the side characters too! Leo is breaking my heart and I am so suspicious of Peter already. He is 100% up to something. Dean's book is up next and I can't wait to dive in.
My interpretation of the star system;
3 stars - I enjoyed it; would read the author again
4 stars - I really liked it; I am invested and definitely want more from this author/series
5 stars - I loved it; I engaged with this book completely until I finished it and it is one I will re-read