In Must Have Been Love, Carrie Elks crafts a compelling narrative that delves into themes of redemption, self-discovery, and the unexpected nature of love. The story is set in a small town, a backdrop that Elks uses effectively to explore the intricacies of community dynamics and personal transformation. The novel opens with the protagonist inheriting a dilapidated bar from her estranged father, a plot device that serves as a catalyst for her journey towards self-acceptance and new beginnings.

The protagonist's encounter with Hudson Fitzgerald, the quintessential small-town hero, is fraught with tension and chemistry. Hudson is a single dad, a role that adds depth to his character and provides a rich ground for exploring themes of responsibility and vulnerability. His initial portrayal as a brooding, insufferable man is gradually peeled away to reveal a more complex individual grappling with his own past and present challenges. Elks does a commendable job of developing Hudson's character, making him relatable and multidimensional.

The relationship between the protagonist and Hudson is central to the novel, and Elks handles it with finesse. Their interactions are laced with witty banter and palpable tension, creating a dynamic that is both entertaining and emotionally resonant. The progression from adversaries to lovers is executed with a natural flow, allowing readers to invest in their journey. The chemistry between them is electric, and Elks captures this with vivid, evocative prose that brings their romance to life.

One of the strengths of Must Have Been Love is its exploration of personal growth. The protagonist's determination to prove herself and transform the rundown bar into a thriving business is a testament to her resilience and ambition. Her journey is one of self-discovery, as she confronts her insecurities and learns to embrace her strengths. Elks portrays this transformation with authenticity, making it a central theme that resonates throughout the novel.

Hudson's character arc is equally compelling. As a single father, he is portrayed as a man who is fiercely protective of his family and community. His initial resistance to the protagonist's presence is rooted in his desire to maintain stability, but as the story unfolds, he learns to let go of his rigid control and open himself up to new possibilities. This evolution is handled with subtlety, adding depth to his character and enhancing the overall narrative.

The small-town setting plays a significant role in the novel, providing a rich tapestry against which the story unfolds. Elks captures the essence of small-town life with its close-knit community, gossip, and the ever-present sense of belonging. This setting serves as a microcosm for the larger themes of the novel, highlighting the importance of community and the impact of personal choices on those around us.

In terms of writing style, Elks employs a blend of humor and emotion that keeps the narrative engaging and relatable. Her dialogue is sharp and witty, adding a layer of realism to the characters' interactions. The pacing of the novel is well-balanced, with moments of tension and introspection interspersed with lighter, more humorous scenes. This balance ensures that the story remains engaging from start to finish.

Comparatively, Must Have Been Love shares thematic similarities with other contemporary romance novels, such as those by authors like Kristan Higgins and Jill Shalvis. Like Higgins, Elks explores the complexities of love and relationships within the framework of a small-town setting. Similarly, her focus on character development and emotional depth is reminiscent of Shalvis's work, making Must Have Been Love a worthy addition to the genre.

Overall, Must Have Been Love is a captivating read that combines romance, humor, and emotional depth. Carrie Elks has crafted 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 love, redemption, and self-discovery is executed with skill and sensitivity, making it a must-read for fans of contemporary romance.

In conclusion, Must Have Been Love is a testament to Carrie Elks's ability to weave a compelling narrative that resonates with readers. Her nuanced portrayal of characters, combined with a keen understanding of human emotions, makes this novel a standout in the romance genre. Whether you're a fan of small-town romances or simply looking for a story that tugs at the heartstrings, Must Have Been Love is sure to deliver.