Noelia's Contribution
The Book
Before You Found Me by Brooke Beyfuss is the last novel I read. I'm torn about whether to recommend it or not, as the opening chapters pull you in and keep you on the edge of your seat! The latest chapters are predictable and a bit boring.The novel follows Rowan, a young woman trying to heal from her traumatic experience with domestic violence. One fateful day, she crosses paths with Gabriel, a ten-year-old boy abused at the hands of his father. In a moment of fierce resolve, she makes a split-second decision that will change their lives forever.
The opening chapters draw you in, prompting you to think deeply about how to safeguard someone in danger. From this compelling starting point, the book takes you on a journey through the intricate web of family dynamics. It reveals that modern relationships and unconventional family structures can be just as profound and meaningful as traditional ones, challenging our perceptions of what family truly means.
The heart of this story beats strongly through the development of its main character and the richness of its dialogue. The conversations are layered and thought-provoking, filled with understanding and genuine affection that mirror the evolving dynamics of their relationship as they navigate various struggles. This compelling aspect of the book pulls readers in, offering a captivating glimpse into the character's thoughts, emotions, and internal conflicts, making them feel deeply connected to their journey.
The central theme of the novel is undeniably captivating; however, it falls short in emphasizing the therapeutic process, which may downplay the critical importance of seeking help for serious psychological issues. Last but not least, the narrative occasionally resorts to predictable romantic tropes, making the reading of this book a bit heavy and tedious.
The Author
Brooke Beyfuss is a freelance writer living in Woodbridge Township, New Jersey, with her husband, daughter, an incredibly energetic dog, and three cats. She graduated from Rutgers University with a Bachelor of Arts in psychology and comparative literature. Brooke has written extensively on a variety of intriguing topics. Her debut novel, After We Were Stolen, was featured in Bustle magazine, presented at the 2022 Kansas Book Festival, and selected as a Fall ’22 Hoopla Book Club pick.