Review of Some Kind of Famous by Ava Wilder
There’s something undeniably alluring about stories that blend personal struggles with the slow unfurling of love—especially when they’re set against the backdrop of a cozy mountain town. When I first stumbled upon Ava Wilder’s Some Kind of Famous, I was smitten by the premise: a once-famous musician trying to reclaim her identity and navigate her way through familial complexities while falling for a steady, charming handyman. I mean, what’s not to love? This blend of emotional depth and small-town charm felt like it had the makings of a perfect read.
At the heart of the story is Merritt, who once dazzled music fans but is now piecing herself back together after a very public breakdown. Her journey of rediscovery takes shape in a small Colorado ski town, where she finds herself avoiding the mystery of the old house she purchased. Enter Niko, the handyman with a gentle demeanor and a heart that seems to feel like a home. Their dynamic is incredibly sweet—there’s something thoroughly delightful about adults in their thirties navigating their feelings with the kind of awkward sweetness more common in teenagers. It elicited more than a few smiles. ðŸ¤
However, the picture-perfect setting and the budding romance couldn’t fully cushion the rocky edges that jolted me out of my reading reverie. Merritt’s relationship with her twin sister, Olivia, struck me as one of the most frustrating elements in the book. I had hoped for a sisterly bond filled with warmth and support, but instead, I found myself feeling quite the opposite. Olivia and her husband, Dev, often undermined Merritt’s growth, which left me feeling a mix of anger and disappointment. Seriously, what kind of family pulls that? 😠Their journey to resolution didn’t feel earned and left an unshakable bad taste for me.
Then there were those little moments, details that personally felt… off. While they weren’t enough to derail the entire story, they certainly caused a few eye rolls. It’s frustrating when small choices pull you from the narrative, even in an otherwise engaging plot.
Despite these bumps along the way, what truly resonated was Merritt’s raw healing journey. The way Wilder approached mental health themes was poignant, and I appreciated that the story authentically portrayed the messy realities of recovery. And can we please take a moment for Niko? His steadfast presence is like a balm—he doesn’t try to fix Merritt, but rather supports her healing process without losing himself. Just… chef’s kiss! 🤌
In conclusion, while Some Kind of Famous didn’t fully hit the mark for me, it’s an ultimately warm story with heart and genuine moments of vulnerability. I believe those who enjoy tender romances intertwined with themes of personal growth will find solace in these pages. Just be prepared for some frustrating family dynamics along the way. For anyone interested in a cozy read that doesn’t shy away from the complexities of self-worth and family expectations, this might be right up your alley.
If you do decide to pick it up, don’t forget to check the trigger warnings—this book delves into some sensitive areas that deserve attention. Happy reading! 🌟