Book: Hearts We Claim by Christina Berry
Reviewed by Booksbystarlightandshadows
Rating: 4/5
I think one of my favourite microtropes is when a character has a nickname or an abbreviated version of their first name but their love interest calls them by their full name. The minute Markus called Rooster "Adam" I was invested! I had my money on Markus flustering Adam but they were just as bad as each other in this slow burn romance. This was a relatively quick listen but packed plenty in.
This does tackle some heavy themes surrounding parental figures and homophobia but is relatively low angst on page. There is some definite closure which Markus deserved; I felt Tim Paige's performance in particular was really layered in this plot thread. Not only is he dealing with estrangement but when those feelings are contrasted against Adam's familial interactions it was really easy to understand how in awe Markus was at how easy they made it look.
Adam's sisters very much bring the comedy relief as does their mum with her matchmaking ways (although Rufus and Drusilla are the matchmaking MVPs). There is however a very serious revelation from Adam towards the end (as well as a realisation) that will break your heart and put it back together. I'm not sure if the author plans on a return trip to Krause but I'd love a return visit!
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