Review of Wes and Ali Had Their Chance by Bethany Turner
When I first picked up Wes and Ali Had Their Chance, I was drawn in by the promise of a heartfelt romance interwoven with struggles of love, loss, and personal growth. Bethany Turner has a reputation for crafting relatable characters and inspiring narratives, which made this release particularly enticing. I was eager to see how she would navigate deeper themes like grief and addiction within a charming love story that, as I soon discovered, had its fair share of ups and downs.
At its core, Wes and Ali Had Their Chance explores the journey of two individuals seeking redemption and healing after heartbreak. We meet Ali, a character grappling with her alcoholism and the shadow of her past, alongside Wes, a senator whose life seems aspirational but hides complexities beneath the surface. Both characters are flawed yet endearing, navigating their inner demons while trying to forge a path toward love. I appreciated how Ali’s struggle with addiction was portrayed sensitively, allowing readers to connect and empathize with her journey toward recovery.
Turner’s narrative is sprinkled with clever framing devices, such as countdowns that mark significant events in both characters’ lives. This stylistic choice effectively builds anticipation and adds layers to the story, making the reader reflect on time and its weight in relationships. However, while the pacing is generally engaging, the story began to lose its grip on reality as it approached its conclusion. I found the big romantic gestures to be sweet but somewhat unrealistic, leaving me feeling a bit jarred.
One line that stood out to me was, “If a guy breaks your heart, it only seems right that he should go on to be unhappy and unsuccessful.” It’s a humorous take on heartbreak and expectation that set the tone for both the light and heavy moments to come. Yet, as the plot unfolded, I found myself increasingly frustrated with Wes’s decision to prioritize Ali at the expense of his political aspirations, especially since she didn’t advocate for his ambitions. It felt like a disservice to both characters, hinting at a deeper issue of dependency instead of mutual support.
While there are positive messages woven throughout the narrative—like the importance of being true to oneself and standing up for loved ones—the book also tackles more controversial topics, particularly with its inclusion of a lesbian character and a brief reference to faith. As a Christian author, Turner’s exploration of these themes might challenge some readers, and it’s worth noting that the narrative isn’t steeped in religious doctrine.
Overall, while I initially loved the characters, the ending left me feeling a bit disappointed, which ultimately affected my overall experience. I would recommend Wes and Ali Had Their Chance to readers who enjoy clean romances with a sprinkle of real-life challenges and heartwarming moments. It may resonate particularly well with those seeking a romantic escape, albeit one with a slightly awkward resolution.
In wrapping up my thoughts, I find myself grateful for the experience Turner’s words offered me. Though it wasn’t her strongest work, I admire her courage to address difficult topics and the comfort of her writing. For fans of her previous novels, this one is worth a glance, but perhaps be prepared for some of those typical, toe-curling, happily-ever-after moments to feel just a bit too far-fetched.
Happy reading!
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