I was able to read a brand new author today in preparation for a review for you. Brand new to me, I should clarify.
The synopsis had me intrigued a bit with the story and while I have mixed emotions, it certainly was an engaging read. Here are my thoughts on this upcoming release.
Breathe the Sky by Michelle Hazen
Publisher: Berkley (August 18, 2020)
ISBN-13: 978-1984803313
Two strangers start out saving animals and end up rescuing each other in this heartwarming romance from the author of Unbreak Me.
Mari Tucker is a wildlife biologist who scoops bunnies and endangered tortoises out of harm’s way on construction sites. Still haunted by her past, she takes the most remote jobs in the Mojave Desert to avoid people and hide from her ex. It’s a simple, quiet life filled with sweet animals and solar-powered baking until she ends up assigned to Jack Wyatt’s crew.
Construction foreman Jack Wyatt’s loud, foul-mouthed temper keeps even the most rugged of men on his crew in line. No mistake is overlooked, because out in the desert it could mean life or death. In his opinion, the job site is no place for sensitive biologists, especially one as shy as Mari. But instead of wilting from the heat and hard work, Mari wins over Jack and his crew one homemade brownie at a time.
Jack and Mari find a comfortable rhythm, building a friendship that’s rare for both of them. After Jack’s rocky childhood, they have more in common than they’d imagined. But even the Mojave sun can’t chase away the shadows when the past is determined to track them down…
Breathe the Sky by Michelle Hazen Review
I love the plot of this book. It’s totally unique and an interesting look into different types of lifestyle that’s very apropos for today.
The story is this book tells a story of two people who are working through trauma in their life but are willing to work through and take a chance.
The author writes a compelling story, rich with detail and emotion. Her character development is also richly detailed but that’s where I have issue with story.
I really enjoyed Mari and the way she stood up for her convictions and the way she dealt with her trauma. The healing process was nicely developed. Plus, she was the only one who understood Jack.
But then we get to Jack. I really wanted so much more for him. The way this read to me, he was mainly inarticulate, especially in uncomfortable situations. He seemed more like a boar of a man instead of the rough, gruff, tender person that he really was deep down.
I don’t want to give away the story, because I appreciate how the characters work together, for the most part, to build their connection. But he seemed very lacking in his ability to reach her tender feelings and develop her confidence. The romance factor was definitely lacking in many ways.
While I definitely enjoyed the story, I really wanted much more for Jack in terms of that tender connection instead of the fearful man he became in my eyes.
A first time read for me for this author, but I would certainly read her other novels as well. Breathe the Sky is beautifully written and well executed for a lovely escape. We get many complex emotions through this story, with highs and lows, funny wit, healing, and growth.
4 STARS!
Disclaimer: Chris has personally reviewed the product listed above. She has not received any monetary compensation for her review but did receive a free ebook so she could evaluate and use it for this post. Her thoughts & opinions in this review are unbiased & honest and your opinions may differ.
Hi! I’m Chris! Just a Midlife Wife sharing about life’s journey; screaming and kicking through it while supposedly aging gracefully…
Focusing on healthy living, low carb & keto, things I am loving right now, and life in general.