Book Review: Never Over by L. M. Hall
Never Over by L. M. Hall captured my attention almost immediately with its haunting title—there’s something intriguing about the idea of emotions or events that linger long after they’ve passed. As I dove into the pages, it became clear that Hall’s exploration of grief, resilience, and the complexity of human relationships is as poignant as the title suggests. This book turned out to be not just a story, but an emotional journey that felt eerily intimate.
The plot centers around Harper, a young woman grappling with loss and the weight of her past as she navigates her relationships and the harsh realities of life. From the very first chapter, I was drawn in by Hall’s ability to paint vivid, relatable characters. Harper’s struggles—balancing her dreams and the expectations of those around her—seemed to echo a universal experience, making her journey both personal and relatable. The supporting cast adds further depth. Each character is steeped in their own battles, reflecting a tapestry of resilience that weaves through the narrative.
Hall expertly tackles themes of love, loss, and self-discovery, often leaving me with reflective pauses. One significant moment occurs when Harper confronts an old friend, revealing the raw honesty that can often be missing in our adult relationships. This theme of confronting the past resonates deeply, as it raises questions about how we often carry old baggage into new chapters of our lives. I found myself reflecting on my own past relationships, how they shaped who I am, and how sometimes the hardest person to forgive is ourselves.
The writing style in Never Over is both lyrical and straightforward, which I found refreshing. Hall’s prose flows effortlessly, balancing moments of poetic beauty with the immediacy of dialogue that feels genuine. The pacing is well-timed, with arcs that build on tension and release just when it feels most necessary. It’s the kind of book that kept my late-night reading habit alive, urging me to turn just one more page—or two.
One memorable quote that stuck with me was: “Some scars are mere memories; others are reminders of who we are.” This encapsulation of how our experiences shape us is a cornerstone of the novel. Hall has a deft touch for poignancy; she makes you sit with your feelings, mourn the past, and celebrate the small victories—the very essence of what makes life beautiful, albeit messy.
I wholeheartedly recommend Never Over to anyone who enjoys a deeply reflective read that traverses the complexities of relationships and personal growth. Those who appreciate character-driven narratives and enjoy exploring themes of healing and self-acceptance will find a lot to love here. As for me, this book was a gentle reminder that while we may never truly be “over” the things that shape us, there’s beauty in learning to carry those experiences forward with grace. It left me feeling a sense of connection, as if I had walked this journey alongside Harper, and perhaps, just maybe, I emerged a little braver too.