Ashley Muñoz's Where We Started is a captivating exploration of legacy, love, and the complexities of familial ties set against the backdrop of a notorious motorcycle club. The narrative centers around the protagonist, who unexpectedly inherits her father's property, including the headquarters of a biker club that has been a significant part of her father's life. This inheritance thrusts her into a world filled with danger, nostalgia, and unresolved emotions, particularly concerning Wesley Ryan, the new club president and her childhood friend turned adversary.

The novel opens with a palpable tension as the protagonist grapples with her father's death and the implications of her newfound inheritance. Muñoz skillfully sets the stage by illustrating the biker culture's rawness and the emotional weight of mourning within such a tight-knit community. The author’s vivid descriptions allow readers to feel the atmosphere of the club, making it almost a character in its own right. This is a world where loyalty and betrayal are often intertwined, and Muñoz does an excellent job of immersing the reader in this duality.

One of the most compelling aspects of Where We Started is the character development, particularly that of the protagonist and Wesley. The protagonist begins as a somewhat naive character, unaware of the full extent of her father's legacy and the challenges that come with it. As she navigates her inheritance, she transforms into a more assertive and resilient individual. This evolution is beautifully portrayed through her internal struggles and her interactions with Wesley, who embodies both her past and her present conflict.

Wesley Ryan is a complex character, portrayed as both menacing and alluring. His initial derision towards the protagonist adds layers to his character, revealing a man who is deeply affected by his past and the weight of his new responsibilities. The tension between them is electric, fueled by their shared history and the unresolved feelings that linger from their childhood. Muñoz captures the essence of their relationship with a deft hand, weaving in flashbacks that highlight their innocent beginnings and the painful rift that has formed between them over the years.

The theme of legacy is central to the narrative. The protagonist's struggle to claim her inheritance is not merely about property; it symbolizes her desire to connect with her father's memory and assert her identity within a world that seems to reject her. This theme resonates deeply, as it raises questions about what we inherit from our families—both tangible assets and emotional burdens. The conflict with Wesley serves as a catalyst for her growth, pushing her to confront not only her father's legacy but also her own desires and fears.

Muñoz also explores the theme of love and its complexities. The relationship between the protagonist and Wesley is fraught with tension, nostalgia, and longing. Their shared history adds depth to their interactions, making their eventual confrontations all the more poignant. The author does not shy away from depicting the raw emotions that come with rekindling a past romance, and the push and pull between them is both heart-wrenching and exhilarating. Readers will find themselves rooting for their reconciliation, even as they are aware of the obstacles that lie in their path.

Another noteworthy aspect of the book is its pacing. Muñoz expertly balances moments of high tension with quieter, introspective scenes that allow for character reflection. This rhythm keeps the reader engaged, as they are drawn into the emotional landscape of the characters. The stakes feel high, not just in terms of the inheritance but also in the personal battles the protagonist faces. The narrative builds to a satisfying climax that ties together the various threads of conflict, both external and internal.

In comparison to other contemporary romance novels that delve into themes of legacy and love, such as Beautiful Disaster by Jamie McGuire or Sweet Home by Tillie Cole, Muñoz's work stands out for its unique setting and the depth of its character exploration. While both of those novels also feature strong romantic elements intertwined with personal growth, Muñoz's focus on the biker culture adds a layer of grit and authenticity that enhances the overall narrative. The emotional stakes in Where We Started feel particularly high, as the protagonist's journey is not just about love but also about reclaiming her identity and her place within a world that is both familiar and foreign.

Overall, Where We Started is a powerful and evocative read that will resonate with anyone who has grappled with the complexities of family, love, and legacy. Ashley Muñoz has crafted a story that is rich in emotion and character development, making it a standout addition to the contemporary romance genre. The interplay between the protagonist and Wesley is beautifully rendered, and their journey is one that will linger in the minds of readers long after the final page is turned. This book is a must-read for fans of romance and those who appreciate stories that delve into the intricacies of human relationships.