Review of When I Think of You by Myah Ariel
From the very first page, Myah Ariel’s When I Think of You drew me in with a promise of heartache, hope, and the intoxicating pull of second chances. As a lover of romance and a sucker for stories that explore the complexities of love, I was immediately captivated. This debut novel provides a nuanced exploration of ambition and the ties that bind us, especially when they are tested by time and circumstance.
The story centers around Kaliya Wilson, who finds herself at a crossroads—her dreams of filmmaking have been sidelined while she pours her heart into being a receptionist at a film studio. Enter Danny Prescott, her college sweetheart, now a rising director returning to offer her a chance at a job—and potentially reigniting the flames of their past love. The tension between professional aspirations and personal connections is brilliantly woven, and I found myself equally rooting for Kaliya’s career and her romance.
Ariel’s writing is evocative and filled with rich, relatable emotions that breathe life into Kaliya and Danny. The pacing is well-balanced, each moment of rekindled romance laced with the uncertainty of their past. I particularly enjoyed the way the author navigates the intricacies of their relationship, showing how past miscommunications lead to real emotional stakes. There’s a quote that lingers with me: “Sometimes the greatest risk is not choosing at all.” It’s a reflection that resonates deeply in our own lives, reminding us that fear is often the biggest barrier to love.
A stand-out aspect of Ariel’s storytelling is her attention to character development. Kaliya is incredibly relatable—a woman passionately chasing her dreams while trying to navigate the turbulent waters of love and trust. Her struggles reflect a broader theme of societal expectations, showcasing the challenges many faces in the entertainment industry. The supporting characters, too, are fleshed out, particularly Kaliya’s friend Céline, whose complex interactions add depth to the narrative.
As I settled into the tale, I couldn’t help but feel that this story is destined to be relatable in this modern world where career ambitions often compete with personal desires. The emotional stakes kept me on the edge of my seat, and I found myself lost in the anticipation of how their story would unfold.
In conclusion, When I Think of You is an enchanting read for anyone who believes in the transformative power of love and resilience. It’s a book that I would recommend to fans of contemporary romance, particularly those who appreciate stories about personal growth intertwined with romantic journeys. Myah Ariel’s debut marks her as an author to watch, and I can’t wait to see what she dreams up next. This novel not only impacted me as a reader, but it sparked a warm feeling of nostalgia for past loves and the hope that they, too, can come back when the timing is just right.
So if you’re in the mood for a heartfelt journey filled with longing, second chances, and the magic of the film industry, I invite you to dive into Kaliya and Danny’s story. You just might find a piece of yourself within its pages.