Josie Hart's Reckless Hearts is a compelling exploration of love, regret, and the complexities of rekindled romance. The novel deftly navigates the tumultuous waters of past relationships, unexpected pregnancies, and the inevitable pull of unresolved emotions. With its engaging narrative and well-drawn characters, this book is a captivating read for anyone who enjoys contemporary romance with a touch of drama.

At the heart of the story is the protagonist's unexpected reunion with her ex, Chris Blackwood. The blurb sets the stage for a narrative filled with tension and emotional upheaval, as the protagonist finds herself not only working alongside Chris but also carrying his child. This premise is both intriguing and relatable, as it taps into the universal fear of confronting unresolved past relationships in the most unexpected circumstances.

One of the novel's strengths lies in its character development. Chris Blackwood is portrayed as a complex character—sexy, cocky, and far too handsome for his own good. His charm and arrogance are balanced by glimpses of vulnerability, making him a multi-dimensional character who is both infuriating and endearing. The protagonist's internal struggle is palpable as she grapples with her feelings for Chris, torn between the pain of past wounds and the undeniable chemistry that still simmers between them.

The theme of complicated love is central to the narrative. The protagonist's journey is one of self-discovery and acceptance, as she learns to navigate the messy realities of love and relationships. The novel does an excellent job of portraying the emotional rollercoaster that comes with rekindling a romance with an ex, especially when there is a child involved. The stakes are high, and the tension is palpable as the protagonist must decide whether to open her heart to Chris once more or protect herself from potential heartbreak.

Hart's writing style is engaging and evocative, drawing readers into the emotional depths of the characters' experiences. The dialogue is sharp and realistic, capturing the nuances of the characters' complex relationship. The chemistry between the protagonist and Chris is electric, and their interactions are charged with both tension and tenderness. Hart skillfully balances moments of humor and heartache, creating a narrative that is both entertaining and emotionally resonant.

In terms of pacing, the novel maintains a steady rhythm, with each chapter building upon the last to create a sense of anticipation and suspense. The plot twists and turns, keeping readers on their toes as they follow the protagonist's journey. The inclusion of the pregnancy adds an additional layer of complexity to the narrative, raising the stakes and adding urgency to the protagonist's decision-making process.

Comparatively, Reckless Hearts shares thematic similarities with other contemporary romance novels that explore the challenges of rekindled love, such as The Hating Game by Sally Thorne and After by Anna Todd. However, Hart's novel distinguishes itself with its focus on the protagonist's internal struggle and the realistic portrayal of the complexities of love and relationships. The novel's exploration of themes such as forgiveness, vulnerability, and the power of second chances adds depth and richness to the narrative.

Overall, Reckless Hearts is a compelling and emotionally charged novel that will resonate with readers who appreciate stories of love, redemption, and personal growth. Josie Hart has crafted a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with characters who are relatable and deeply human. The novel's exploration of the messy realities of love and relationships is both poignant and refreshing, making it a standout addition to the contemporary romance genre.

For readers seeking a romance novel that delves into the complexities of love and the challenges of rekindled relationships, Reckless Hearts is a must-read. Its engaging narrative, well-developed characters, and exploration of universal themes make it a book that will linger in the minds of readers long after the final page is turned.