Emily Shacklette’s Everywhere You Look is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the unexpected ways life can force us to redefine family. At its core, the novel is a heartwarming narrative about two men who find themselves thrust into parenthood under the most tragic of circumstances, only to discover that their bond is deeper and more profound than they ever realized.

The story begins with Luke Cannon, a former quarterback for the San Francisco Redwoods, grappling with the aftermath of a career-ending injury. Shacklette deftly portrays Luke’s initial despair, capturing the raw vulnerability of a man who has lost not only his professional identity but also, in a tragic accident, his beloved sister, Gigi. This double blow sets the stage for a journey of self-discovery and resilience, as Luke becomes the guardian of his three young nieces.

Enter Dean McKenna, Luke’s best friend and a retired NFL quarterback. Dean’s introduction into the narrative is seamless, and Shacklette skillfully uses his character to inject warmth and humor into the story. Together, Luke and Dean navigate the chaotic world of raising children, and their camaraderie is both genuine and endearing. The author’s portrayal of their friendship is one of the novel’s strongest elements, highlighting the importance of support systems in times of crisis.

As the plot unfolds, Shacklette introduces a compelling twist: the decision for Luke and Dean to marry in order to protect their newfound family. This arrangement, born out of necessity, becomes a catalyst for exploring deeper themes of love and identity. The marriage of convenience trope is given fresh life here, as Shacklette delves into the complexities of long-buried feelings and the challenges of navigating a relationship that blurs the lines between friendship and romance.

One of the novel’s most striking features is its exploration of grief and healing. Through Luke’s journey, Shacklette offers a nuanced portrayal of how individuals cope with loss and the ways in which they can find solace in unexpected places. The author’s sensitive handling of these themes is both moving and thought-provoking, inviting readers to reflect on their own experiences with grief and the power of love to heal.

Character development is another area where Shacklette excels. Luke’s transformation from a man consumed by loss to a devoted father figure is both believable and inspiring. His interactions with his nieces are tender and authentic, capturing the joys and challenges of parenthood with remarkable clarity. Similarly, Dean’s evolution from supportive friend to loving partner is handled with care, allowing readers to witness the gradual unfolding of his feelings for Luke.

The children, too, are well-drawn characters in their own right. Shacklette gives each niece a distinct personality, and their presence adds depth and richness to the narrative. The author’s ability to capture the innocence and resilience of children is commendable, and their interactions with Luke and Dean provide some of the novel’s most heartwarming moments.

In terms of style, Shacklette’s writing is both engaging and accessible. Her prose is infused with warmth and humor, making for a reading experience that is both enjoyable and emotionally resonant. The pacing is well-balanced, with moments of tension and drama interspersed with lighter, more humorous scenes. This balance ensures that the novel remains compelling from start to finish.

Comparatively, Everywhere You Look shares thematic similarities with works by authors such as T.J. Klune and Casey McQuiston, who also explore themes of found family and unconventional relationships. However, Shacklette’s novel stands out for its focus on the intricacies of grief and the healing power of love, offering a fresh perspective on these well-trodden themes.

Overall, Everywhere You Look is a beautifully crafted novel that will resonate with readers who appreciate stories about love, family, and the resilience of the human spirit. Emily Shacklette has created a touching narrative that is both heartwarming and thought-provoking, making it a must-read for fans of contemporary romance and family dramas. The novel’s exploration of love in its many forms is both timely and timeless, reminding us that family is not defined by blood, but by the bonds we choose to nurture.

In conclusion, Shacklette’s ability to weave together themes of love, loss, and healing into a cohesive and compelling narrative is a testament to her skill as a storyteller. Everywhere You Look is a testament to the enduring power of love and the ways in which it can transform our lives, even in the face of unimaginable loss. It is a story that will stay with readers long after they turn the final page, a testament to the enduring power of love and family.