Book Review: It’s Different This Time: A Novel by Joss Richard
There’s something undeniably magnetic about second-chance romances. They tug at our hearts, play with our nostalgia, and make us believe in the power of love to heal old wounds. When I stumbled upon It’s Different This Time by Joss Richard, the promise of rekindled flame and a compelling New York City backdrop hooked me instantly. After flipping through the pages of this national bestseller, I realized I’d found not just a story of romance, but a beautifully woven tapestry of human experiences, regrets, and hope.
At the heart of the novel are June Wood and Adam Harper, former roommates whose friendship fell apart amidst life’s complexities. After severing ties for five long years, fate draws them back to the brownstone they once shared, a multimillion-dollar property now part of a quirky inheritance clause. The emotional stakes couldn’t be higher as both characters grapple with their past, and the unresolved feelings that linger like shadows in their shared old haunts.
The exploration of themes such as forgiveness, personal growth, and the messiness of real relationships resonated deeply with me. June’s journey from the cancellation of her hit TV show back to her roots feels painfully real, and as she navigates her insecurities, it becomes clear that her journey is a reflection of many of our own struggles with identity and belonging. Adam, with his own set of emotional parries, brings a depth to the story that complements June beautifully. Their history isn’t romanticized; it’s messy and lifelike, packed with both laughter and heartfelt conversations.
Joss Richard’s writing style presents a marvelous blend of authenticity and emotional transparency. The dialogue feels crisp and relatable—it’s not overly polished but rather natural, as if we’re privileged to overhear real, intimate exchanges between two people rediscovering not just each other, but themselves. I particularly loved how Richard painted their shared moments; meals, late-night talks, and poignant silences are depicted with such warmth that I felt like I was part of the brownstone’s inviting ambiance.
One of my favorite moments in the book is when June reflects, “You win, you lose…but you can’t do either unless you take a chance.” This quote encapsulates the very heart of their journey, reminding us that growth often comes disguised in risk and vulnerability. It’s a sentiment I found myself thinking about long after I put the book down.
Readers who appreciate emotional contemporary romance and the complications of second-chance love will absolutely adore this novel. If you’re someone who believes in love that lingers, the power of setting, and characters that feel as palpable as our everyday lives, then this book is for you.
Ultimately, It’s Different This Time left me not just smiling at its conclusion but reflecting on the relationships in my own life. It’s a gentle reminder that some connections are worth revisiting, worth nurturing, and often hold the most potential for growth and healing.
Whether you’re reclined in a cozy chair or nestled up for a weekend read, Joss Richard’s debut novel delivers a heartwarming experience that lingers long after the last page is turned. So go ahead, indulge yourself in this delightful read—you might just learn how to face your own past with renewed hope and courage.
You can find It’s Different This Time: A Novel here >>