Amita4ever's manga / #Overcoming(587)

I love the art and the story was heartwarming. The only thing that would have improved it for me was if they had waited. To a degree, I suppose it could be argued that it’s hard to apply real life statistics, which say bed before vows increases a marriages chances of failing, to contractual marriages of convenience since love and emotions are not at the foundation of the commitment, but I still think it wiser to wait. That being said, when did real life statistics have ANYTHING to do with Harlequins.

5 chaps

One shot (*3)- I have mixed feelings about this one. The hero starts out as a complete jerk, but we see him soften as he learns of the trama harbored in the heroine's heart. Unfortunately, that doesn't stop him from pursuing a physical relationship, and she eventually succumbs. I appreciated his persistent, insistant refusal to give up on her and to prove his intent, I just thought the story (and relationship) would have been stronger had his primary goal not been getting her in bed first.. The story didn't require it, and - IMO - would have been a richer romance without it.

This has a lot of the features I think make a good foundational romance... a positive heroine who refuses to give up on her man, strong character growth, no BBV (bed before vows) so no unplanned pregnancies, an OW cameo too short to become oppresive, no manipulation, no toxic relatives, no misunderstandings, no unbelievably tragic back stories (well, the hero has some issues, but they are well woven into his character and not unblievable), a good flow, belivable relationship development (a little rushed maybe, but page limits often require that), and all wrapped up in good art. Been awhile since I could give a story 5 stars.

I enjoyed this on so many levels. I loved how he could offer a sincere and honest, "Sorry" when he realized he was in the wrong. I loved how he treasured her and waited until after they were married. I loved how he let himself be changed by her faith in him. I loved how he realized he really couldn't move forward until he had dealt with his past and did so. I loved how he realized how blessed he was, and expressed that as well. This plot was pretty simple and had none of the 'standard' Harlequin complications, but it was really sweet and touching. It's being added to my BEST list!

Left off at chap 70

Not exactly what I was expecting. I was rather dismayed by the violence. Nothing came of it, but it blows the concept of the ML being any kind of gentleman and makes me wonder what he'll do if he has a bad day and the wife/kids get on his nerves. Secondly, I guess the plot required it, but it i find it very unsettling that a woman would think she has to hurt and alienate her 4 year old son in order to leave. I honestly think this story could have been written, and been just as good, without either of these.

The art was the only thing that was consistently enjoyably. The story, and especially the hero, were very flawed. Topic created below.

This has a simple plot and limited characters, but you really can't get much better than this. There is just enough angst to make your eyes burn, a FL that makes you want to cheer her on, her precocious daughter will wrap you around her finger and a feel-good ending as sweet and warm as hot chocolate. Good read.