Always Be an Us, penned by the talented Summer Hunter, is a poignant exploration of relationships, overcoming adversity, and the timeless bond of love. This novel, although fictional, resonates with the authentic emotions and complicated scenarios that real-life couples face, turning simple narrative into a profound journey through the nuances of love and companionship. In her book, Hunter has elegantly captured the essence of modern love and the challenges that come with it, presenting readers with a story that is both heartwarming and thought-provoking.

The story pivots around the lives of two main characters, Emma and Jack, whose journey together begins in a not-so-typical meeting at a friend's wedding. What starts as a light-hearted encounter between two seemingly opposite individuals, grows into a deep and complicated relationship. Emma, a career-focused graphic designer, and Jack, a passionate elementary school teacher, initially clash over their differing lifestyles and priorities. However, as the narrative progresses, these differences become the very essence that deepens their understanding and affection for each other.

Character development is one of the strongest aspects of Always Be an Us. Hunter has skilfully portrayed Emma and Jack as complex characters undergoing significant personal growth throughout the novel. Emma's journey from a self-sufficient individual to someone who understands the value of sharing life’s burdens is particularly compelling. Jack, on his part, demonstrates a profound emotional depth, grappling with his past traumas and striving to build a future that includes not just his dreams, but also embraces Emma’s aspirations. The way their stories interweave showcases Hunter’s exceptional ability to build relatable and evolving characters.

The setting of the novel, shifting between bustling New York City and tranquil upstate New York, mirrors the tumultuous yet hopeful tone of the relationship. Hunter’s descriptions are vivid, drawing readers into the environments that so crucially shape the narrative’s mood and the characters' actions. Whether it’s the chaotic, passionate vibe of the city or the serene, reflective quiet of the countryside, the settings steep deeper into the emotional undercurrents of the novel.

A poignant theme explored in Always Be an Us is the concept of vulnerability and its role in love. Throughout the book, both protagonists confront their inner fears and vulnerabilities, learning that these do not signify weakness but are avenues to forge stronger, more genuine connections. This thematic thread is not only central to their development but also reflects broader societal views on emotional expression and strength.

Dialogue and interaction between characters in the book deserve special mention. Hunter has a flair for creating realistic, engaging dialogues that propel the story forward. The banter between Emma and Jack ranges from heartfelt to humorously sarcastic, providing a balanced rhythm to their relationship and keeping the reader invested. Furthermore, secondary characters, such as Emma's sister Lydia and Jack’s mentor, Mr. Gilbert, though not central to the plot, have been fleshed out beautifully. They add layers to the main narrative, challenging the protagonists in various meaningful ways and adding to the novel's depth.

The novel also cleverly incorporates modern challenges of relationships, such as balancing career ambitions with personal life, dealing with past traumas in a relationship, and the societal pressures of settling down. These challenges are woven seamlessly into the plot, making the story relevant and relatable to a contemporary audience.

However, the novel is not without its flaws. At some junctures, the pace seems to slow down, particularly in the middle sections where internal monologues tend to dominate. While these help in understanding the characters’ inner worlds, they sometimes stall the narrative flow. Nevertheless, these moments are few and do not significantly detract from the overall engaging storytelling.

In conclusion, Always Be an Us by Summer Hunter is a beautifully crafted novel that speaks to the soul of anyone who believes in the enduring power of love. It smartly captures the essence of romantic uncertainties, the beauty of resolved tensions, and the growth that comes from loving deeply. Readers looking for a heartfelt, realistic portrayal of love in the 21st century will find this book a rewarding read. It is a testament to the complexities of human relationships and a celebration of the courage it takes to love openly and fearlessly.