Thursday, October 5, 2017

The Light We Lost

Title: The Light We Lost
Author: Jill Santopolo
Published: May 9th 2017 by G.P. Putnam's Sons
Format: Hardcover, 328 pages
Genre: Romance

A heart-wrenching story is the easiest way of describing the relationship between college students Lucy and Gabe who meet on September 11th, 2001. As they stand on the top of a building at Columbia University, they see the devastation that takes down the twin towers and in its place, their shifting thirteen-year relationship takes form.

Lucy is consumed with her immediate connection with Gabe, but when he suddenly returns to his ex-girlfriend she pines and wallows until they meet up by chance a year later. They are drawn to each other but they each have careers that they are equally passionate about and have agreed to never dissuade each other from their dreams.

As Gabe’s career as a photojournalist takes him to war torn regions, Lucy develops her ideas for children’s programs that build young minds. Then Lucy meets Darren, a stable and settling force. He is not as exciting as Gabe is, but he is dependable. Something that Gabe never was. She settles for the man that does not tick all the boxes, but is home every night for dinner. Their life together grows, her career fulfills her, yet her husband Darren discounts her dreams. He thinks that what she does is unimportant and wishes that she would just stay home with their children. Something that Gabe would have never asked of her.

This is the danger point in her marriage. Lucy sees excitement in Gabe that is missing from her life at home. Maybe just one last time and she will finally be able move on, but fate hands her one last trick. As Gabe, lies injured in a hospital in Gaza City, Lucy rushes to his side. Trying to keep him engaged in this world instead of letting him float off, she recounts their dreams, desires, jealousies, betrayals, and, ultimately, love.

No stone is left unturned in this bittersweet love story. A story that will stay with you and at points make you question your own life choices. This book is both beautiful and devastating so grab the tissues because you are in for a bumpy ride.

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