If you enjoy steamy romance with plenty of drama and angst, All of You by Kyra Lennon is well worth your time. It’s a great opening to the trilogy and I’ll warn you now — the cliffhanger ending means you’ll want book two close to hand before you start.
Shannen Morgan is a primary school teacher from a well-to-do background who has never allowed herself anything as out of character as a one-night stand. Callum Lewis is a bad boy and single dad to a five-year-old, living a firmly no-strings life. One night that was supposed to be nothing quickly becomes something neither of them can shake, and watching two people so different from each other work out what that means — while the world around them has opinions — makes for a very engaging read.
One of the things Lennon does particularly well is alternate between Shannen and Cal’s points of view. It gives you a real understanding of both characters — their thoughts, their fears, the reasons behind their choices — and that dual perspective is a big part of why you become so emotionally invested in them. The pacing is well handled too, giving the relationship room to breathe and develop in a way that feels genuinely believable.
The secondary characters are likeable and add real colour to the story. Shannen’s judgemental best friend in particular is someone you’ll have very strong feelings about — which is exactly the point. When secrets from Cal’s past begin to surface the story takes on a real emotional intensity, and Lennon handles the drama and angst with a confident touch that keeps the pages turning
The characters are credible and relatable throughout, the dialogue natural, and the small-town setting adds a warmth that suits the story well. A well written, engaging romance and a strong start to the series. Fans of steamy romance with heart will love this.
I award 5 stars.
