Every Borrowed Beat: A Heartfelt Journey of Love and Loss
As someone who often finds solace in the pages of a good book, I was immediately drawn to Every Borrowed Beat by Erin Stewart. I hadn’t read any of Stewart’s work before, but the combination of a heart transplant, romance, and the exploration of life’s fleeting moments seemed right up my alley. Plus, who could resist a tear-jerker that dives into the depths of youth, love, and the complexities of life? Little did I know, this story would leave a profound imprint on my heart.
The narrative follows Sydney Wells, a seventeen-year-old who has just undergone a heart transplant. After spending three long years on the donor list, Sydney is finally ready to embrace life again. But with a heart beating anew, her journey to discover the girl who gave her that chance—Mia—becomes both a quest for identity and a path laden with grief. Stewart’s portrayal of Sydney is heartfelt and raw; you can feel her longing to celebrate life while grappling with the heavy weight of loss.
What truly tugged at my heartstrings was Sydney’s relationship with Clayton Cooper, Mia’s best friend. Their bond begins under a veil of secrecy—Sydney mistakenly claims to know Mia through an online ukulele group. This intriguing start propels the plot forward as Clayton seeks closure through his late friend’s vision board, weaving their stories together in surprising and heartwarming ways. The cute, yet poignant moments of first love are beautifully balanced with the darkness surrounding both characters’ lives, including Clayton’s struggle with survivor’s guilt and family turmoil.
Stewart’s writing style is refreshing and intimate, drawing readers into Sydney’s world through her first-person perspective. The pacing felt just right as each chapter unfolded; the balance of light and shadow made for an engaging read. I often found myself swept away by the vivid descriptions of small-town Cherry Hill, Utah, and the way Stewart encapsulated the bittersweet nature of growing up in the face of overwhelming challenges. One moment that really struck me was when Sydney, upon realizing the fragility of life, discovers joy in simple moments—like riding an ATV or swimming in a pond. In those scenes, I felt an echo of my own youthful exuberance and the sometimes overwhelming need to seize every moment.
This book doesn’t shy away from tough themes; it bravely addresses organ donation, grief, and the scars left by addiction and loss. I appreciated the trigger warnings because they prepared me for the emotional journey ahead. It’s a tale that reflects not just the reality of life-and-death situations, but also the beauty that can emerge from the ashes of heartache.
If you’re drawn to stories that balance heartbreak with hope, Every Borrowed Beat might just be your next favorite read. It’s perfect for anyone who enjoys young adult romance steeped in rich emotional landscapes.
In conclusion, Erin Stewart has crafted a beautiful exploration of life’s fragility and a celebration of love’s enduring power. Reading this novel wasn’t just an emotional experience; it was a reminder to cherish the shared beats of our lives. I left with a heart full of gratitude and a gentle reminder about the interconnectedness of our stories. A solid 5/5 stars from me! 🌟
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Children’s | Delacorte Press for providing this ARC—I’ve found a new favorite author in Erin Stewart!