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ALC provided by NetGalley

Author: Kayla Gross 

Narrators: Victoria Connoly and Grayson Owens

After two heart attacks, a Kawasaki disease diagnosis and an ICD implant, Jesse Reeves decides that it is time to LIVE. To help with that, she writes a carefully thought out bucket list. Item #1 on the list is a no-strings one night stand. She manages to cross that one out when she meets Asher Jamison in a bar. Their night together is way more than she hoped for in so many ways. Her “stranger in the bar” turns out to be her best friend’s brother. To her surprise, her friend couldn’t be happier when she finds out and suggests a road trip with Asher, who lives in an RV, so that she can check all the items on her bucket list. Jesse reluctantly agrees with one condition: they will keep things platonic.  But what she doesn’t know is that, for Asher, she’s the ultimate “bucket list” item for him and he’d love to stay in her life. As the days go by, he might even convince her. 

Narrated dual style by Victoria Connoly and Grayson Owens, this audiobook tugged at all my heartstrings. Victoria’s voice is perfect for the vulnerable yet determined Jesse. Grayson is swoony as the green flag personified Asher and both of them give this story incredible performances. They make you root for Jesse and Ash from the moment they meet. 

I was particularly moved by the fact that (although not autobiographical) the story is pretty much based on Kayla Grosse’s own experience with the disease and it makes Jesse’s experiences ring very true. 

A tech geek hero who falls first, a fun and determined heroine, a supportive best friend/sister, a one night stand for the books, one memorable road trip, one grumpy cat and a romance that gives you all the feels! Just lovely! 

Rep: FMC has Kawasaki disease and an ICD implant; MMC has ADHD

Content notes: talks of death and dying, discussions of body image, weight loss, disordered eating