The Rebound

After reading the blurb, I was really intrigued about where this book would be going. I have a sweet spot for Ireland, as I spent time abroad and loved reading about the community and how people are making an effort in this small town. I had a feeling from the beginning that this would be a fun read. I enjoyed getting to know both protagonists and their little backstory. It's a really lighthearted book, despite some topics and problems that arise throughout the story. As a reader, you were able to see a change for Abby, the female main character, over the course of the book. I loved the writing style and how the characters were portrayed, but the plot just kind of fell a little flat to me. Often I feel like this is a contemporary romance thing, and by all means, in this case, it's nothing that should keep you from reading this one. I had a fun reading experience, and it's definitely still a great book. [While I received an eARC through NetGalley, this is my honest opinion.]

3.5⭐️ rounded up. Abby had it all as a successful New Yorker, until her world came crashing down. She lost her job, her fiancé called off their engagement, and with nowhere else to turn, she reluctantly heads back to her childhood home in rural Ireland, a place she vowed never to return to. In the midst of her despair, fate intervenes in the form of a captivating stranger named Luke. His good looks and charm provide the short-term distraction Abby desperately needs to escape her troubles. However, the next day, reality dawns on Abby as she discovers Luke’s true identity – he’s not just a stranger, but her childhood friend and neighbor, Luke Bailey. Memories of shared baths and innocent moments flood back, making her blush at the thought of him. What’s more, it becomes apparent that Luke has known her true background all along. As Abby navigates the complexities of her past, present, and the facade she’s been living, she begins to question if her connection with Luke is more than just a distraction. __________________________________________ I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. This book explores the themes of rediscovery, second chances, and the unexpected twists that life throws our way. The introduction of side character Beth and her eventual happy ending added a delightful layer to the story. (Beth, I am a fan - you go girl) It’s refreshing to see well-developed side characters in a novel, as they often take a back seat in many books. I loved Abby’s journey and how she changed throughout the story. The chemistry between her and Luke was undeniable. However, I couldn’t help but wish for more depth in Luke’s character. It would have made the story even better. While I enjoyed the book and got caught up in the characters and their emotions, I did find some parts of the story a bit predictable. There were a few too many misunderstandings for my taste. But overall, I still really liked the book. It’s a heartwarming story with characters I could relate to, and it had a satisfying ending.

Similar to the good girl complex, I knew that the Rebound by Catherine Walsh would be a book I‘d enjoy. I liked Abby because she is sooo relatable. It was easy to understand why she acts the way she does. Luke is such a cutie too, I love the grumpy but very cute puppy attitude he got going on. The side characters were soooo loveable too and Ireland served wonderfully as charming romcom setting. It‘s always hard to write a review for a book you really enjoyed, that‘s why this one is so short. If you‘re looking for a romcom feel-good book without too much drama and a smalltown setting, the rebound is certainly the book for you.