If I See You Again by Joelle Lynne

ABOUT THE BOOK

When one night becomes so much more.

Malcolm
Perpetually undateable. That’s what you’d call me. Before I can get through the door, I’ve already told them too much. Getting stood up has become a sport. After yet another bad setup, I take a chance on the stranger at the table next to mine, but I’m not expecting what comes after. This is why I should never think with my dick.

David
Another failed business trip. At this rate, all the terrible proposals could line a city block. When I stopped off for lunch and spotted the man who got stood up, I knew I had to shoot my shot. It didn’t hurt that he came with the added perk of being the new consultant I’m scheduled to meet the following morning. Maybe I can convince him we can be more.

MY REVIEW

I was delighted to unpack the heartfelt charm of Joelle Lynne’s If I See You Again which is the expanded version of a novella.

Malcolm and David are two men who find themselves tangled up in a night of passion, only to discover that they’re about to be thrown together in a work project the very next day. Let the chaotic emotions begin!

I appreciated the dynamic between the protagonists. While the vulnerable Malcolm was grappling with his grief and keeping things at arm’s length, determined David was all about pressing forward. He wanted more than just a fling, and he was adorably protective and aware of Malcolm’s distress at work and at Malcolm’s family’s Thanksgiving. As the story progressed, I found myself rooting for them, hoping that Malcolm would find the strength to let David in, not just into his bed but into his heart.

Watching the lovers embrace vulnerability amid their quirks is what makes this novel shine. The way that Malcolm’s emotional journey was portrayed with his struggles and his moments of vulnerability added so much depth to the story. It wasn’t just about hot moments and spontaneous attraction, it was about the healing power of love and connection. David’s persistence and warmth provided a nice balance to Malcolm’s more serious demeanor. The book beautifully captures the challenges and joys of falling for someone in the midst of personal turmoil.

With all that being said, while his character had such potential to be explored in depth, I couldn’t shake the feeling that David’s backstory was rushed, almost like an afterthought. There’s so much richness in how dysfunctional family dynamics shape a person, and I found myself craving more insight into how David’s past influenced the man he is.

If you enjoy a slow-burn romance that’s packed with wit, tenderness, and genuine emotional depth, this book is a must-read. I look forward to more books by this author.

Thank you to Ms. Lynne for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.