Echoes of the Heart

Another excellent read from Ally McGuire. I love her world building excellence and how she really draws you into the lives of the characters. I loved the characters, especially sassy Mrs. Crabtree, and the chemistry between River and Marina was electric. I also enjoyed the paranormal parts of the story - and how River used her gifts to help other people. I didn't want to put it down while I was reading it... and really wish there was a part 2 so we could see what happens next!

What do mysticism and corporate lawyering have in common? Not much. But sometimes fate intervenes and new perspectives are welcomed. I really enjoyed that this is a layered and complicated story. The story is first and foremost a slow burn, opposites attract, butch femme contemporary romance. It also layered in real ethical issues around gentrification and community renewal. Questions about moral compasses were also front and center - how they swing and what an individual decides to do when caught between a client and a right choice. Finally, it was a paranormal book where mysticism is embraced. Both protagonists were well-drawn - Marina, the career-obsessed latina lawyer was a predictable ladder climber on one hand, but also a deeply human character who had to confront how the choices she made at work impacted River and others in her community. River was an extremely grounded psychic who can speak to ghosts. She is a reluctant hero as she speaks for her community, but she accepts that things are going as they need to and is an extremely calm and steadying force, particularly in Marina’s life. I was particularly interested to see how these two women, who were completely at odds, would wind up navigating all of the challenges put in their way. Yet again, McGuire guides us through a wonderful love story.

I recommend this book. The characters are interesting and likable. The slow burn romance i s sweet. Opposite s attract romance one a non believer the other attaches spirits and reads people. I really enjoy this authors books. Thanks for another winner.