#browngirlbookreviews 🤎
Overview
Before I Let Go is a piercing tale of love rekindled and second chances. It’s told from the dual POV of the hero, Josiah “Si”, and the heroine, Yasmen “Yas”. It’s a dynamic love story that takes readers on an emotional journey into the lives of a family in crisis. Josiah and Yasmen Wade, once dubbed by friends as “couple goals” had a marriage that sadly ended in divorce. The divorce was prompted by a series of traumatic tragedies that resulted in loss, depression, guilt and a divided family.
Plot
The story opens up in present day, two years after the couples divorce. Yasmen has since grown through therapy, learned to love herself more, and found a happier space. However, the story shifts when they both start dating other people for the first time. Josiah’s moving on seems to awaken something in Yasmen, a feeling she battles with at first, because she feels guilt from the desolution of her marriage. The narrative is steaming with heart-stirring drama and emotional turmoil as Yasmen and Josiah navigate the complexities of parenting, expanding thier joint business, and the surprising path of a rekindled bond.
Theme
Before I Let Go is an inspirational narrative that doesn’t shy away from the realities of life. It explores a couple who don’t always get it right but are willing to invest time, effort, and seek professional help to save their family. The efforts that Si and Yas make to save their family is worth it. We gain tremendous insight into Yas and Si’s emotional journey as they come to terms with their failed marriage and the impact its’ had on their children, Deja and Kassim. The author does an excellent job of illustrating how divorce can affect older children and their understanding of love and family.
Verdict
This story of Black love is at times emotional and raw, but also moments of joy and laughter. Kennedy Ryan’s heart-wrenching, thought-provoking, and effortless writing style will resonate with you long after the story is over. This book is a page-turner filled with romance, tear-jerking moments, and joyous occasions.
Before I Let Go is a beautifully written love story that realistically chronicles the lives of families undergoing monumental changes in life ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐.