Review of Quiet Longing (Quiet Love #2) by L.H. Cosway
When I first stumbled upon L.H. Cosway’s Quiet Love series, her unique storytelling and rich character development instantly captivated me. So, it’s no surprise that I eagerly dove into Quiet Longing, the second installment. The dual-timeline narrative featuring Charli and Rhys had me hopeful for a heartfelt exploration of love rekindled after years apart. However, as I turned the pages, my excitement began to wane, leaving me with a mix of appreciation and disappointment.
At its core, Quiet Longing is a second-chance romance that introduces us to Charli and Rhys as teenagers spending an unforgettable summer in Ireland. Their youthful attraction blossoms into something beautiful but, as summer fades, so does their connection—until life brings them back together 16 years later. Charli, recently divorced from an abusive husband, and Rhys, fresh out of a broken engagement, find themselves working at the same hotel, illuminating their paths once again.
While I appreciated the complexities of the characters’ past traumas, the pacing slowed significantly during the first half, leaving me feeling disengaged. The foundation of their teenage romance was compelling, yet knowing they’d be apart for so long diluted the urgency of their connection. I found myself drifting in and out of interest—not a great feeling for a series I had previously enjoyed so much.
Rhys, in both timeframes, is a shining light in the narrative. As a teenager, he navigates the painful dynamics of his family life, demonstrating a protective nature, especially towards Charli and his mother. His growth into a more confident man in the second half highlights the depth of his character. I appreciated how patient and supportive he was with Charli as she grapples with her trauma—a testament to his genuine character.
On the other hand, Charli’s evolution presented mixed feelings for me. In her younger years, she embodies confidence and charm, but as an adult, the shadows of her past weigh her down. I felt sympathy for her struggles with PTSD, yet I couldn’t fully connect with her decisions. She seemed to oscillate between wanting deep connection with Rhys and hesitating to fully commit, leaving me frustrated at times, especially with her decision to let Rhys hope for a future together before putting the brakes on their relationship.
Cosway’s writing, as always, retains an engaging quality, though it sometimes felt uneven in Quiet Longing. The emotional stakes could have been higher, particularly given the weight of the events leading to their separation. However, the steamy scenes were well-executed, earning a respectable 3/5 on the spice scale.
While the story ultimately does lead to a heartwarming happily-ever-after, complete with a sweet epilogue, Quiet Longing left me yearning for a more compelling connection between the leads. I often wonder if readers who revel in second-chance romances might find something special in Charli and Rhys’ journey—especially those navigating their own paths through trauma and healing.
In conclusion, Quiet Longing is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and resilience, but it may not resonate with everyone. Readers who appreciate character-driven narratives and emotional journeys might find this book worth diving into. While it didn’t ignite the same sparks for me as its predecessor, it’s still a testament to L.H. Cosway’s ability to weave complex emotional stories. If you’re curious about flawed characters finding their way through a tangled web of past and present, this book might just be your cup of tea.
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