I just finished If You Stayed, and I’m not even going to lie… this book had me in TEARS. 😭

Like, it was so emotional, but in a way that actually sticks with you. I kept thinking about it days later.

Definitely check your trigger warnings, because there is some domestic violence and themes of grief, but it was amazing.

I think what got me the most is how much I’m moved by character growth. Seeing someone truly do better? That will get me every single time.

And Kierra… she was really just living on autopilot until Gabriel came back into her life and kind of woke her up in a way.

I loved the pacing too. This was one of those books I could not put down. It moves fast, but still gives you everything you need.

And there are SO many plot lines in this book. Everything is woven in so nicely. But somehow, she wraps everything up so neatly.

I know some people might say it wrapped up too nicely, but honestly? I loved that. No loose ends, no confusion, just a complete story.

Also, the way the tension is built??? Because you know Kierra caused something in Gabriel’s life, but you don’t get the full story until later. And those flashbacks mixed with present day???

Yeah… chef’s kiss.

And the writing is less on the flowery side, but it still hits emotionally.

This was such a good read for me. Easily one of those books that reminds me why I love reading in the first place.