This Is Love (The Light to My Darkness 3) by Ivy Smoak is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships. As the third installment in the series, it delves deeper into the emotional turmoil faced by its protagonists, Penny and her husband, who find themselves at a crossroads in their marriage. The blurb sets the stage for a heart-wrenching narrative that challenges the notion of love as a simple, unbreakable bond. Instead, Smoak presents a more nuanced view, one that resonates with anyone who has experienced the fragility of relationships.

The story opens with a sense of nostalgia and longing, as the male protagonist reflects on the moment he fell in love with Penny. This initial spark of romance is beautifully depicted, capturing the magic of first love and the belief in fate that often accompanies it. However, as the narrative unfolds, Smoak skillfully juxtaposes this idealized version of love with the harsh realities that come with time and change. The protagonist's realization that love is not merely about light and darkness, but rather a complex interplay of emotions, is a central theme that runs throughout the book.

Character development is one of Smoak's strong suits. The male protagonist is portrayed with depth and vulnerability, allowing readers to empathize with his struggles. His journey from a confident lover to a man grappling with the disintegration of his marriage is both relatable and heartbreaking. Penny, on the other hand, is depicted as a multifaceted character whose own battles with identity and connection add layers to the narrative. The couple's dynamic is fraught with tension, as they navigate the chasm that has formed between them, making the reader acutely aware of the stakes involved in their relationship.

One of the most compelling aspects of This Is Love is its exploration of the theme of loss. Smoak does not shy away from depicting the raw pain that accompanies the realization that the person you once knew so intimately has become a stranger. This theme is particularly poignant in the context of marriage, where the expectations of forever can clash violently with the reality of change. The protagonist's desperate desire to "get her back" serves as a powerful reminder of the lengths we go to in order to reclaim what has been lost. It raises questions about the nature of love: Is it enough to simply want someone back, or is there a deeper understanding that must be reached?

The emotional weight of the narrative is further enhanced by Smoak's evocative writing style. Her use of imagery and metaphor paints a vivid picture of the couple's emotional landscape. The contrast between light and darkness serves as a recurring motif, symbolizing the highs and lows of their relationship. Smoak's ability to articulate the complexities of love and the pain of separation makes the reader feel every heartbeat of the story. The prose flows seamlessly, drawing readers into the characters' world and making it difficult to put the book down.

In terms of pacing, Smoak strikes a delicate balance between moments of introspection and the unfolding drama of the couple's relationship. The tension builds gradually, allowing readers to become fully invested in the characters' journey. There are moments of hope interspersed with despair, creating a rollercoaster of emotions that keeps the reader engaged. The climax of the story is both satisfying and thought-provoking, leaving readers to ponder the implications of love and the possibility of redemption.

When comparing This Is Love to other contemporary romance novels, it stands out for its raw honesty and emotional depth. While many romance novels tend to idealize love, Smoak's narrative embraces the messiness of real-life relationships. Readers who have enjoyed works by authors like Colleen Hoover or Taylor Jenkins Reid will find a kindred spirit in Smoak's writing. Both authors share a talent for crafting relatable characters and exploring the intricacies of love, but Smoak's approach is particularly focused on the darker aspects of relationships, making her work a compelling read for those seeking a more profound exploration of love's complexities.

Ultimately, This Is Love (The Light to My Darkness 3) is a powerful conclusion to a love story that challenges the reader to reconsider their own perceptions of love and connection. Ivy Smoak has crafted a narrative that is both heart-wrenching and thought-provoking, leaving a lasting impact long after the final page is turned. The book serves as a reminder that love is not just about the highs, but also about navigating the lows, and that sometimes, the hardest battles are fought within ourselves.

For those looking for a romance that delves into the intricacies of love and loss, This Is Love is a must-read. It invites readers to reflect on their own relationships and the ways in which they define love, making it a poignant addition to the contemporary romance genre.