Up Close & Personal by Ana Holguin: A Conversational Connection
I picked up Up Close & Personal by Ana Holguin, drawn in by its vibrant premise and the allure of a debut author. As someone who frequently dives into the romance genre, I often find myself yearning for fresh voices that offer a new perspective—this book seemed like just the ticket. After all, with spring in full swing and warmer weather beckoning, the idea of a light, engaging read was incredibly appealing.
Exploring Themes and Characters
At its core, Up Close & Personal explores the complexities of fame and the masks we wear, particularly through the lens of its protagonist, Johanna de la Cruz. Johanna, a top spin instructor whose workouts have captivated thousands, grapples with the weight of her celebrity status and the anxiety it brings. Holguin does an admirable job of portraying Johanna’s journey, providing substantial mental health representation that resonated with me. The author captures the nuances of living with an anxiety disorder, making Johanna’s struggles feel sincere and relatable.
Enter Silas Anders, our romantic lead and a journalist known for his hot takes. It’s quite the setup: Silas is tasked with writing a piece on Johanna, armed with a preconceived notion that borders on condescension. It was frustrating at times, yes, especially as Silas starts the book with a rather jaded outlook on Johanna’s career. His transformation felt necessary but somewhat sluggish, adding to the tension of the narrative.
Writing Style and Personal Insights
Ana Holguin’s writing style is fluid and engaging, making for a refreshing read after some dense literature. You can easily lose yourself in her prose, which is both accessible and evocative. While the pacing kept me interested, I found myself wishing that Johanna’s character received a more rounded backstory beyond her anxiety and celebrity as a spin instructor. Her past, family struggles, and friendships seemed like untapped wells of insight into her character that could have enriched the story further.
The quote, “All we have control over in this wild, sometimes ugly world is ourselves and our actions,” struck a significant chord with me. It encapsulates the essence of ownership over one’s path, something Johanna learns to do throughout the novel. This takeaway lingered in my thoughts long after I turned the last page.
Final Thoughts
Up Close & Personal is a commendable debut that showcases Holguin’s potential as a storyteller. Despite its flaws—particularly Silas’s sometimes frustrating character development and a few abrupt conflicts—the narrative manages to shine through its charm and heart.
I believe readers who enjoy character-driven romances, with a touch of humor and authentic mental health discussions, will appreciate this book. Holguin’s ability to convey deep emotions while maintaining a light narrative is commendable and leaves me curious about what she has in store next. Thanks to NetGalley and Forever Grand Central Publishing for this eARC; I look forward to sharing more from Ana Holguin in the future!
