All That Matters by Felice Stevens is a contemporary romance novel that explores themes of love, loss, and personal growth. Set in New York City, the story revolves around the lives of two main characters, Dylan and Tristan, who find each other at a time when both are grappling with their pasts and trying to navigate their futures. Felice Stevens brings to the fore a heartfelt narrative that touches on the complexities of familial relationships, the struggles of mental health, and the redemptive power of love.

The novel opens with Dylan, a dedicated art therapist who uses his passion for art to help troubled teenagers find their way. Despite his success in his career, Dylan’s personal life is overshadowed by a painful past, which includes a fraught relationship with his family and the loss of his first love. Then there's Tristan, a successful but reclusive photographer whose career has distanced him from personal connections. His life is controlled by a compulsive nature and a need to maintain order, a behavior stemming from deep-seated trauma during his childhood.

Their paths cross when Tristan's niece, who attends the school where Dylan works, needs more personalized attention. From the onset, the chemistry between Dylan and Tristan is palpable, but their journey is not without obstacles. Their personal issues serve as barriers to their mutual attraction, creating a compelling push and pull dynamic that drives much of the narrative. Stevens showcases her prowess in character development, allowing readers to dive deep into the hearts and minds of her protagonists. Each character is well-fleshed out, with backstories that are slowly revealed, making their pain and their triumphs deeply resonant.

Felice Stevens excels in creating a vivid setting, capturing the essence of New York City not just as a backdrop but as an almost secondary character that complements the story’s mood and pace. The bustling city life, alongside quieter, introspective moments in parks and art studios, mirrors the turmoil and peace in the characters' journey.

The novel also takes a serious look at issues like mental health and the importance of facing one's past. Dylan's role as an art therapist is portrayed with a great deal of respect and realism, highlighting the genuine impact of art therapy on mental health and recovery. Similarly, Tristan’s gradual opening up about his childhood and the subsequent understanding of his behaviors underscores the novel’s emphasis on mental health awareness and treatment.

While the romantic developments between Dylan and Tristan are central to the story, All That Matters is also a profound narrative about individual growth. Each character learns to confront their past hurts and current fears, a process that is both raw and realistically depicted. The support they offer each other is portrayed poignantly, steering clear of the pitfalls of over-idealizing romantic relationships as cure-alls. Instead, Stevens promotes a healthier, more balanced view where love is part of the healing process, but not the entire solution.

Supporting characters in the book, including Tristan’s niece and both protagonists' friends and family, add richness to the story, providing additional layers of conflict and resolution. These interactions also bring to light various forms of love and companionship, from familial to platonic, enriching the main narrative of romantic love.

Stevens' writing style is engaging, with a balance of descriptive passages that paint the emotions vividly and dialogue that feels authentic and poignant. The pacing is brisk but gives enough room for the reader to absorb the emotional depths of the story. Occasional shifts in point of view between Tristan and Dylan are handled smoothly, providing insights into each character’s inner thoughts and struggles without disrupting the narrative flow.

However, while the book tackles heavy themes with grace and sensitivity, certain plot points might feel a tad predictable to seasoned readers of the genre. Yet, this does not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the novel. Indeed, the strength of Felice Stevens' work lies in her ability to create characters that readers can root for and care about deeply.

In conclusion, All That Matters is a compelling blend of romance and serious contemporary issues. It invites the reader to explore the healing power of love and art, making it a recommendable read for those who appreciate romance that doesn’t shy away from deeper emotional and psychological landscapes. Felice Stevens has crafted a story that not only entertains but also enriches, reminding us that in the face of life’s challenges, the connections we forge with others truly do matter.