Finding Magic in "Finders Keepers"
As an avid fan of Sarah Adler’s enchanting romcoms, I was absolutely thrilled to dive into her latest creation, Finders Keepers. The promise of a second-chance romance filled with adventure, whimsy, and a side of magic had me hooked from the outset. Having long been charmed by Adler’s ability to blend sweetness with real-life struggles, I couldn’t wait to see how she crafted this tale of nostalgia and rekindled love.
At the heart of Finders Keepers is Nina Hunnicutt, a character who instantly felt like a friend. Returning to her childhood town of Catochin, Maryland, after a string of life’s misadventures—including a broken relationship and a lost job—Nina embodies that all-too-familiar feeling of defeat. I appreciated how Adler portrayed her internal struggles; Nina’s journey back home became a mirror of self-discovery, a reminder that it’s often in the places we least expect that we can find ourselves again.
Enter Quentin Bell, Nina’s childhood sweetheart, who mysteriously reappears in her life. The chemistry between the two is palpable, replete with unspoken regrets and unmistakable attraction. I found myself rooting for them, particularly with Quentin’s surprisingly charming personality. His unconventional sarcasm and perfectly executed pranks injected a refreshing spark into the narrative—it’s hard not to smile at his antics!
One highlight of the book is the whimsical treasure hunt that reignites their relationship. The stakes are both hilarious and heartfelt, with Quentin suggesting they finish what they started years ago, offering Nina an enticing 70% of the potential treasure. This plot twist not only serves as a clever device to bring them together but also deepens Nina’s internal conflict as she wrestles with her past decisions. As they delve into the woods of their childhood, the magic of adventure truly comes alive, capturing the essence of youthful joy and discovery.
While Nina’s internal monologues sometimes veered into the realm of repetitive self-doubt, I found depth in them and could relate to her momentary hesitations. It’s through her eyes that we witness the impact of past choices on present happiness. Meanwhile, Quentin’s confident demeanor felt like a breath of fresh air, a contrast that made their dynamic even more compelling.
Sarah Adler’s writing style has always captivated me, and this book is no exception. Her ability to blend humor with poignant moments shines through, and the pacing kept me eagerly turning pages. One memorable quote that resonated with me was when Quentin said, “Sometimes, the greatest treasures are the ones we find within ourselves,” which beautifully encapsulated the journey Nina embarks on throughout the book.
Finders Keepers is a delightful concoction of romance, nostalgia, and the magical possibility of second chances. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to fellow romance lovers and anyone seeking a heartwarming escape. Adler’s storytelling is the perfect antidote for those feeling lost in their own lives, reminding us all that home—and happiness—may be just around the corner.
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for providing me with a digital reviewer copy. This sweet, entertaining read truly brightened my day, and I can only hope it does the same for you!
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