AD* | Steph, an advice columnist, is stuck in a stagnant life, while lonely architect Harry dreams of rediscovering his passion. Despite a chance encounter in New York sparking a magical connection between them, fear and past wounds keep them apart. But when Steph's daughter, Lola, enters the picture, their paths intertwine in unexpected ways. As Steph fights to save her community's beloved park and confronts her past, she must choose between safety and taking a leap of faith.
That Night in New York is a slow-burn, character-driven romance that balances light-hearted humour with a more reflective exploration of love, regret, and second chances. It follows the story of Steph, an advice columnist trapped in a life that feels stagnant, and Harry, a disenchanted architect who longs to rekindle his lost passion. When a chance meeting in the city that never sleeps sparks an unexpected connection, they find themselves on an emotional journey that touches on themes of friendship, community, and personal growth. However, past wounds and insecurities lead them on a winding road from friends to enemies, eventually arriving at something deeper and more meaningful.
The book's biggest strength is its strong sense of character. The protagonists are not only well-rounded but also deeply relatable in their imperfections and insecurities. Steph and Harry’s personal challenges make them feel real and textured, as each character brings their own baggage to the table, revealing layers of vulnerability and resilience. This quality makes the story thoroughly character-driven, with even smaller side characters, like Steph’s action-group friends, coming to life with distinct personalities. These secondary characters, though minor in role, add richness and depth to the narrative, representing the values of community and support.
Throughout the story, humour is combined with moments of emotional depth. The humour is refreshing and light-hearted, giving the novel a lively energy, while the more serious undertones introduce an emotional weight that touches on loneliness, self-doubt, and the fear of taking risks. This emotion provides a poignant counterpoint to the novel’s romantic core. The friendships and community spirit in the book are uplifting, and the author demonstrates a clear appreciation for the support networks that people form, especially during times of personal crisis.
The romance itself is a slow burn, moving through phases from friends to enemies to eventual lovers. While the friends-to-enemies-to-lovers arc can sometimes feel frustratingly drawn out, it serves to emphasise the psychological hurdles both characters face before they can truly be together. This choice, while adding complexity, may challenge readers looking for a more straightforward romantic payoff, as the path to their relationship is anything but smooth. However, for readers who enjoy a romance rooted in emotional discovery, this approach will likely feel authentic and richly layered.
The slow-burn approach, while effective for character development, may feel sluggish for some readers, especially as the characters circle each other for an extended period. Additionally, certain plot developments, such as Steph’s daughter, Lola, entering the story, could have been more fully explored. Lola’s character is introduced as a potential catalyst for change, yet her role doesn’t have the impact one might expect in the plot’s resolution.
That Night in New York is an enjoyable romance that shines through its memorable characters and its themes of community and friendship. The book’s realistic portrayal of finding love in the right place at the right time will resonate with readers who believe that love can flourish even amid life’s messiness.
Rating: 3 stars
That Night in New York is available to buy now.
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