Lauren Gilley’s Love Is… is a delightful exploration of romance and vulnerability, wrapped in the guise of a Valentine’s Day story. Set a few months after the events of Walking Wounded, this novella offers a sweet, introspective look at love through the eyes of Luke, a character who finds himself grappling with the complexities of affection and the societal pressures surrounding Valentine’s Day.

At its core, Love Is… is a narrative about transformation and the courage it takes to embrace love in its purest form. Luke, who has historically despised Valentine’s Day, is thrust into a situation where he must confront his aversion to the holiday. The premise is simple yet profound: Luke has a Valentine this year, and the usual escape route of a "no-gifts policy" is not an option. This sets the stage for a journey that is as much about self-discovery as it is about romance.

Gilley’s writing shines in her ability to delve into the psyche of her characters. Luke is portrayed with a depth that makes him relatable and endearing. His internal struggle with the concept of Valentine’s Day is not just about the holiday itself but about what it represents—commitment, vulnerability, and the fear of inadequacy. Through Luke, Gilley explores the theme of overcoming personal barriers to embrace love fully. This theme resonates with anyone who has ever felt the weight of expectations, both internal and external, in a relationship.

The character development in Love Is… is subtle yet impactful. Luke’s journey is not marked by grand gestures or dramatic revelations but by small, meaningful moments that accumulate to create a profound change in his outlook. Gilley expertly uses these moments to highlight the importance of authenticity in relationships. Luke’s realization that love is not about grandiose displays but about genuine connection and understanding is a powerful message that elevates the story beyond a typical romantic narrative.

Gilley’s portrayal of Valentine’s Day as a backdrop is both critical and refreshing. While many romantic stories glorify the holiday, Love Is… takes a more nuanced approach. The story acknowledges the commercial and often superficial nature of Valentine’s Day while simultaneously celebrating the opportunity it provides for genuine expressions of love. This duality is handled with grace, allowing readers to appreciate the holiday without feeling pressured by its traditional expectations.

Comparatively, Gilley’s approach to romance is reminiscent of authors like Jojo Moyes and Rainbow Rowell, who also excel in creating character-driven stories that focus on emotional depth rather than plot-driven drama. Like Moyes and Rowell, Gilley understands that the heart of a compelling romance lies in the authenticity of its characters and their interactions. This focus on character development over plot twists makes Love Is… a refreshing read for those who appreciate a more introspective take on romance.

Moreover, the novella’s pacing is well-suited to its subject matter. At just the right length, it allows for a deep dive into Luke’s character without overstaying its welcome. The brevity of the story does not detract from its emotional impact; instead, it enhances it by maintaining a tight focus on the central theme. Gilley’s ability to convey so much with so little is a testament to her skill as a writer.

One of the standout aspects of Love Is… is its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia and warmth. Gilley’s writing is imbued with a sense of familiarity that makes the reader feel as though they are revisiting old friends. This is particularly effective for those who have read Walking Wounded, as it provides a continuation of the characters’ stories in a way that feels both satisfying and organic.

In conclusion, Lauren Gilley’s Love Is… is a beautifully crafted novella that offers a fresh perspective on love and Valentine’s Day. Through the lens of Luke’s journey, Gilley explores themes of vulnerability, authenticity, and the courage to embrace love despite personal fears. The story’s strength lies in its character-driven narrative and its ability to resonate with readers on a deeply emotional level. For those seeking a romance that prioritizes emotional depth over superficiality, Love Is… is a must-read. It is a reminder that love, in its truest form, is about connection, understanding, and the willingness to be open to the possibilities it brings.