Title: The Life We Almost Had
Author: Amelia Henley
Genre: Fiction, Romance
Paperback Published On: June 14, 2022 (first published July 23, 2020)
Publisher: Forever
Source: digital (Books Forward)
Pages: 413
Synopsis:
This is not a typical love story, but it’s our love story.
Anna wasn’t looking for love when Adam swept her off her feet but there was no denying their connection, and she believed they would be together forever.
Years later, cracks have appeared in their relationship. Anna is questioning whether their love can really be eternal when a cruel twist of fate delivers a crushing blow, and Anna and Adam are completely lost to one another. Now, Anna needs Adam more than ever, but the way back to him has life-changing consequences.
Is a second chance at first love really worth the sacrifice? Anna needs to decide and time is running out…
A beautiful and emotional love story that asks, how far would you go for a second chance at first love? Perfect for fans of The Man Who Didn’t Call and Miss You.
My thoughts
(Spoiler free)
When I picked up The Life We Almost Had by Amelia Henley, I expected heartbreak. Some tears. I was prepared for twists, surprises, and even supernatural occurrences. The title alone informs the reader this is not a typical love story. And while there were elements of this story I enjoyed, I was mostly underwhelmed. However, once again, I’m mostly in the minority, so if you’re intrigued by this love story, give it a try!
“This is not a typical love story, but it’s our love story. Mine and Adam’s. And despite that day, despite everything, I’m not ready for it to end.”
Amelia Henley, The Life We Almost Had
This was my first book by Amelia Henley, a pseudonym for Louise Jensen who writes bestselling psychological thrillers. I’ll be honest, I read about 60% of this book and skimmed through the rest, stopping to read certain scenes. I pretty much knew this wasn’t a book I would love at about the 10% mark, but the author did do such a good job of stroking my curiosity, I kept reading hoping my feelings would change. I had to know if my suspicions were correct, and what forced these two people apart.
How did I know this probably wouldn’t be a book I loved? Our doomed couple had quite the insta-love meet cute, and if you’re a follower, you know I rarely meet an insta-love I don’t like, but not this time. So that was a big red flag for me. I felt more like the author was telling me more than showing me that Anna and Adam were in love. I did like the premise of their circumstances: Anna has been jilted and she goes on her honeymoon trip with her best friend where she meets Adam who’s been kicked out of his room while his best friend “entertains”. It sounds like the start of a perfect rom-com, right?! Even knowing this wouldn’t be a rom-com, I couldn’t help wishing that’s the direction it would take as I read.
There were so many routes this book could have taken. There’s a bit of a sci-fi element that I did like. It was the hint of that element which made me pick up the book in the first place and kept me reading, but it ended up being more sad and outlandish than interesting for me in the end. I found myself rolling my eyes too many times. I was hoping for a great love story, even if that meant no HEA (happily ever after), but I never felt that spark or connection.
I’ve seen other reviewers give this one high marks, so it’s definitely a case of wrong book at the wrong time. The author’s note at the end about how personal this book was to write was inspiring and heartfelt, and I almost wish she would have written more closely about her own personal story. I can appreciate what she was trying to do, but unfortunately, it just didn’t work for me this time.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you to Books Forward for providing me with an advance copy.
(All quotes are taken from the advance copy and are subject to change in final print.)
Rating:
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About the Author
A Song For A Book
Henley mentions a few songs throughout the book, especially ’80s hits because Adam is a fan of all things ’80s. As soon as this song was mentioned, I couldn’t get it out of my head, so it’s the perfect choice. The lyrics are pretty perfect for the story, as well. I’ve chosen to highlight “True Blue” by Madonna.
…I’ve heard all the lines
I’ve cried, oh-so many times
Those tear drops they won’t fall again
I’m so excited ’cause you’re my best friend
So if you should ever doubt
Wonder what love is all about
Just think back and remember, dear
Those words whispered in your ear, I said
True love
You’re the one I’m dreaming of
Your heart fits me like a glove
And I’m gonna be true blue, baby, I love you…
Have you read The Life We Almost Had? Will you be adding it to your TBR? Let me know in the comments!
Happy Wandering!
When I read that synopsis, it’s something I would really enjoy. You gave good reasons for not loving it.
Yeah, the synopsis really pulled me in!
From the synopsis, I got a feeling this was not a book for me. Sounds like it wants to go against the norm for romance.
Yes! I don’t usually mind that, but it didn’t work for me too well here.