Hannah Ellie’s Built to Fall is a poignant exploration of grief, love, and the quest for normalcy in the aftermath of personal tragedy. The novel deftly navigates the complexities of human emotions, offering readers a heartfelt journey through the eyes of its protagonist, Evangelina Everhart. With a compelling narrative and well-drawn characters, Ellie crafts a story that resonates on multiple levels, making it a must-read for fans of contemporary romance and coming-of-age tales.

At the heart of Built to Fall is Evangelina, a young woman grappling with the loss of her mother. Her return to campus after a year of mourning is not just a physical journey but an emotional one, as she attempts to reclaim a semblance of normalcy in her life. Evangelina’s character is beautifully developed, with Ellie capturing the nuances of her grief and resilience. Her struggle to move forward while holding onto the past is portrayed with sensitivity and depth, making her a relatable and sympathetic character.

Enter Grant Vandenberg, the quintessential campus heartthrob whose charm and charisma are matched only by his unexpected depth. Initially introduced as a stereotypical playboy, Grant quickly reveals layers that defy first impressions. His ability to see through Evangelina’s facade adds an intriguing dynamic to their relationship. The chemistry between Evangelina and Grant is palpable, and their evolving relationship forms the emotional core of the novel. Ellie skillfully portrays their journey from tentative friendship to something more profound, capturing the essence of young love with authenticity and warmth.

The theme of grief is intricately woven into the narrative, serving as both a backdrop and a catalyst for Evangelina’s personal growth. Ellie’s portrayal of grief is nuanced and realistic, highlighting the unpredictable nature of healing and the importance of allowing oneself to feel and process emotions. Evangelina’s late-night runs around campus, a coping mechanism for her anxiety and sorrow, are symbolic of her internal struggle and desire to escape her pain. These moments of solitude and introspection add depth to her character and underscore the novel’s exploration of healing and self-discovery.

Another significant theme in Built to Fall is the impact of rumors and societal expectations. As Evangelina and Grant’s relationship becomes the subject of campus gossip, the novel delves into the pressures of living under scrutiny and the challenges of maintaining authenticity in the face of external judgment. Ellie effectively captures the tension between personal desires and public perception, illustrating how rumors can threaten to unravel even the strongest of bonds. This theme is particularly relevant in today’s social media-driven world, where privacy is often compromised, and public opinion can wield significant influence.

Ellie’s writing style is both engaging and evocative, with a keen eye for detail and emotion. Her ability to create vivid imagery and convey complex emotions with clarity and precision is one of the novel’s strengths. The dialogue is natural and authentic, capturing the essence of the characters and their relationships. Ellie’s prose is both lyrical and accessible, making Built to Fall a pleasure to read.

In comparison to other contemporary romance novels, Built to Fall stands out for its depth and emotional resonance. While it shares thematic similarities with works like Colleen Hoover’s It Ends with Us and Sarah Dessen’s The Truth About Forever, Ellie’s novel distinguishes itself through its focus on grief and the healing process. The novel’s exploration of love as a source of comfort and strength in the face of adversity is both touching and inspiring, offering readers a message of hope and resilience.

Overall, Built to Fall is a beautifully crafted novel that captures the complexities of love, loss, and personal growth. Hannah Ellie has created a story that is both heartwarming and thought-provoking, with characters that linger in the reader’s mind long after the final page. The novel’s exploration of themes such as grief, love, and societal expectations is handled with sensitivity and insight, making it a compelling read for anyone who has ever experienced loss or sought to rebuild their life in the aftermath of tragedy.

For readers seeking a story that combines romance with emotional depth and authenticity, Built to Fall is an excellent choice. Hannah Ellie’s ability to weave a narrative that is both entertaining and meaningful is a testament to her skill as a writer, and this novel is sure to resonate with readers who appreciate stories that reflect the complexities of real life. Whether you’re a fan of contemporary romance or simply looking for a story that speaks to the heart, Built to Fall is a book that should not be missed.