Summer Hunter’s Always Knew It Was You is a delightful blend of romance and suspense, offering readers a captivating journey through the complexities of love, family expectations, and personal growth. The novel, while rooted in the familiar trope of a fake relationship, distinguishes itself with its engaging characters and a plot that keeps readers on their toes.

The story centers around a seemingly straightforward premise: a wealthy heir, pressured by familial obligations, must marry a high society woman to secure his inheritance. However, Hunter skillfully subverts expectations by introducing Carly Huntley, a character who defies the typical mold of a high society woman. Carly is described as a “gorgeous, curvy, and emotionally unavailable blonde,” and her dynamic with the protagonist is both electric and endearing. Their chemistry is palpable from their first encounter, and Hunter does an excellent job of building tension between them, making their eventual romance feel both inevitable and satisfying.

One of the novel’s strengths lies in its character development. The protagonist, initially portrayed as a spoiled and unruly heir, undergoes significant growth throughout the story. His journey from a reluctant participant in his family’s plans to a committed partner willing to face challenges head-on is both believable and rewarding. Carly, on the other hand, is a breath of fresh air in the romance genre. Her independence and emotional complexity add depth to the narrative, making her more than just a love interest. Her struggles with her family and the external threats she faces add layers to her character, making her journey as compelling as the protagonist’s.

The novel’s themes of love, responsibility, and personal growth are woven seamlessly into the narrative. The protagonist’s initial reluctance to take on responsibility is challenged by his growing feelings for Carly, and his eventual acceptance of his duties is portrayed with nuance and sensitivity. Similarly, Carly’s journey from emotional unavailability to vulnerability is handled with care, making her transformation feel authentic and earned.

Hunter’s writing style is both engaging and accessible, with witty banter and humor that provide a perfect counterbalance to the novel’s more suspenseful moments. The dialogue between the characters is sharp and often laugh-out-loud funny, adding a layer of enjoyment to the reading experience. The suspense elements, while secondary to the romance, are well-executed and add an extra layer of intrigue to the story. The threats to Carly’s safety and the challenges posed by her family are woven into the narrative in a way that keeps readers invested in the outcome.

In terms of pacing, Always Knew It Was You strikes a good balance between romance and suspense. The story unfolds at a brisk pace, with enough twists and turns to keep readers engaged without feeling rushed. The novel’s climax is both satisfying and emotionally resonant, providing a fitting conclusion to the characters’ journeys.

Comparatively, Hunter’s novel shares similarities with other contemporary romances that explore themes of fake relationships and personal growth, such as Christina Lauren’s The Unhoneymooners or Sally Thorne’s The Hating Game. However, Hunter’s unique blend of romance and suspense sets it apart, offering readers a fresh take on familiar tropes. The novel’s emphasis on character development and emotional depth elevates it above many of its contemporaries, making it a standout in the genre.

Overall, Always Knew It Was You is a compelling and enjoyable read that will appeal to fans of romantic suspense and contemporary romance alike. Hunter’s ability to craft engaging characters and a well-paced plot ensures that readers will be hooked from the first page to the last. The novel’s blend of humor, romance, and suspense makes it a perfect choice for readers looking for a story that is both heartwarming and thrilling.

In conclusion, Summer Hunter has crafted a novel that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, offering readers a story that is as much about personal growth and self-discovery as it is about romance. Always Knew It Was You is a testament to the power of love to transform and heal, and it is sure to leave readers with a smile on their faces and warmth in their hearts.