Shae Ruby's Cross My Heart is a poignant exploration of friendship, love, and the complexities of human relationships. At its core, this novel is a tale of three childhood friends—Tyler, Noah, and Scarlett—whose bond is tested by time, circumstances, and the intricacies of adult life. The narrative is a rich tapestry of emotions, deftly weaving themes of loyalty, love, and the often painful journey of self-discovery.

The story begins with a nostalgic look back at the trio's childhood, where they were known as The Three Musketeers. This foundation of friendship is crucial, as it sets the stage for the emotional turmoil that follows. Ruby skillfully captures the innocence and purity of childhood bonds, making the eventual unraveling of these relationships all the more impactful. The transition from childhood to adulthood is marked by a pivotal night that changes everything for Scarlett and Noah, leaving Tyler as the silent observer of a love that was never meant to be.

One of the novel's strengths is its character development. Scarlett, the protagonist, is a well-rounded character whose internal struggles are portrayed with authenticity and depth. Her journey is one of self-discovery, as she grapples with her feelings for Noah and the reality of her marriage to Tyler. The complexity of her emotions is palpable, and Ruby does an excellent job of making the reader empathize with her plight. Scarlett's character is a testament to the idea that love is not always straightforward and that the heart often wants what it cannot have.

Noah, on the other hand, is a character marked by his own set of challenges. As a military man dealing with PTSD, his struggles add another layer of depth to the story. Ruby's portrayal of PTSD is sensitive and realistic, providing a window into the often misunderstood world of mental health issues faced by veterans. Noah's vulnerability is both his strength and his weakness, making him a compelling character who is easy to root for.

The theme of right person, wrong time is central to the narrative. Scarlett and Noah's love story is one of missed opportunities and what-ifs, a theme that resonates with anyone who has ever experienced unrequited love or the pain of timing that just doesn't align. Ruby captures the angst and emotional turmoil of such situations with precision, making the reader feel every ounce of Scarlett and Noah's longing and regret.

Another significant theme is the idea of best friends to lovers. The transition from friendship to romance is fraught with challenges, and Ruby does not shy away from exploring the messiness of such relationships. The novel delves into the fear of losing a cherished friendship and the risk involved in pursuing something more. This theme is handled with care, and Ruby's exploration of it is both realistic and heart-wrenching.

The inclusion of a bi awakening adds another layer of complexity to the story. Scarlett's realization of her feelings for Noah challenges her understanding of her own identity and her relationship with Tyler. This aspect of the novel is handled with sensitivity and authenticity, providing representation for those who may be experiencing similar journeys of self-discovery.

It is important to note that Cross My Heart does involve themes of cheating, which may be a point of contention for some readers. However, Ruby approaches this aspect of the story with nuance, emphasizing the emotional turmoil and moral dilemmas faced by the characters. The cheating is not sensationalized but rather portrayed as a consequence of deeply rooted emotional conflicts.

In terms of style, Ruby's writing is both angsty and emotional, perfectly capturing the intensity of the characters' experiences. Her prose is evocative, drawing the reader into the world of Scarlett, Noah, and Tyler with ease. The pacing of the novel is well-balanced, allowing for moments of introspection and emotional depth without sacrificing the momentum of the story.

For readers who enjoy similar themes, Cross My Heart can be compared to works like One Day by David Nicholls or The Light We Lost by Jill Santopolo, both of which explore the complexities of love and timing. Ruby's novel stands out for its unique blend of military romance and the exploration of mental health, offering a fresh perspective on familiar themes.

Overall, Cross My Heart is a compelling read that will resonate with anyone who has ever experienced the complexities of love and friendship. Shae Ruby has crafted a story that is both heart-wrenching and hopeful, leaving readers with much to ponder long after the final page is turned. The novel's exploration of loyalty, love, and the journey to self-discovery is both timeless and timely, making it a must-read for fans of emotional, character-driven stories.