A Heartfelt Journey Through Music and Healing: A Review of A Wish for Us (Deluxe Edition)
There’s something magical about the way music intertwines with our emotions; it’s a universal language that transcends boundaries. That’s why A Wish for Us, written by the incredibly talented Tillie Cole, immediately caught my attention. Given my appreciation for stories that delve deep into the human experience, I found myself drawn to this tale of love, healing, and the transformative power of music.
The narrative centers around Cromwell Dean, a 19-year-old rising star in the electronic dance music scene. Behind the dazzling lights and captivating performances, Cromwell is burdened by the weight of his past, which has left him emotionally distant. In Bonnie Farraday, he encounters someone who becomes a catalyst for his healing—a girl in a purple dress who, with her infectious love for music, dares to penetrate his guarded heart.
One of the book’s most poignant themes is the struggle between light and darkness. Cole beautifully captures how Cromwell’s journey towards finding himself is intricately tied to his ability to embrace vulnerability. “You can’t fight the colors you were born to see,” reflects the struggle that many of us face: allowing ourselves to be seen and loved despite our scars. This heartfelt exploration resonated deeply with me, reminding me that sometimes, love is the ultimate form of healing.
Cole’s writing style is both lyrical and evocative, weaving vivid imagery with raw emotion. The pacing flows gracefully, mirroring the rhythms of the music integral to the story. The depiction of Bonnie and Cromwell’s profound connection—both grounded in music and illuminated by shared struggles—felt particularly moving. I loved the moments where Cole lets the music come alive through her prose, making it almost tangible, as if I could hear the melodies echoing through the pages.
Several lines struck a chord with me, such as the description of Bonnie’s voice as “violet blue.” It’s a small detail, but it encapsulates the power of love and music to bring color to a gray world. It’s this kind of delicate metaphor that showcases Cole’s talent for emotional depth, making the reading experience rich and textured.
If you’re a fan of poignant young adult romances filled with emotional highs and lows, A Wish for Us is a must-read. It’s a story that doesn’t shy away from the complexities of mental health and trauma while also delivering a message of hope and resilience. For those who appreciate character-driven narratives that leave a lasting impression, this book is sure to resonate long after the last page is turned.
In closing, I found this deluxe edition to be an enriching reading experience, made even more special with its beautiful sprayed edges. Tillie Cole has firmly solidified her place on my list of favorite authors. A Wish for Us is not just a story; it’s an experience—one that celebrates music, love, and the beautiful messiness of being human. Grab your tissues and let yourself be swept away by this emotional symphony; you’ll be glad you did.