Book Review: Past Present Future (Rowan & Neil, #2) by Rachel Lynn Solomon
Wow, where do I even begin? As a long-time fan of Rachel Lynn Solomon, the release of Past Present Future had me practically levitating with excitement! Celebrating its pub date on April 6, 2024, I couldn’t have been more thrilled to dive back into the lives of my favorite couple, Neil and Rowan. Thanks to NetGalley and Simon Teen for sending me an ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts—I promise, I could talk about these characters for ages!
To put it simply, if you don’t adore Neil and Rowan, you might want to skip this one. Past Present Future reads like a beautifully crafted epilogue, allowing us a glimpse into their lives as they navigate college—and the challenges of being thousands of miles apart. And believe me, this book delivered everything I hoped for and more. My heart was pounding in the best way, and days after finishing, I’m still buzzing with joy!
Romance and Plot
The romance in this sequel is nothing short of perfection! While the tone dips into deeper, serious themes—reflecting the characters’ growth—it’s also packed with all the heart-fluttering moments that kept me grinning from ear to ear. The evolution of Neil and Rowan’s relationship feels grounded in real life; you can almost feel their love radiate from the pages.
One of the highlights? Their struggles with communication, which, let’s be honest, is a theme many readers can relate to. I found myself giggling at their charming awkwardness and was moved by their willingness to express their romantic needs despite the discomfort.
Characters that Feel Like Home
Rowan, my beloved queen, stole the show once more. She’s smart, nerdy, and all too relatable—especially with her struggles to make friends and handle homesickness. I felt deeply connected to her journey, given my own recent move to Australia. It was like Rachel was reading my mind, crafting a character who mirrored so much of my own personality.
And then there’s Neil, the ultimate book boyfriend. His POV genuinely wrecked me—in the best way possible. Watching him grapple with his mental health issues, especially in the aftermath of family trauma, was heartbreaking yet relatable. I appreciated how the story tackled these heavy themes with sensitivity and grace. Neil’s love for Rowan is palpable and just sets unrealistic standards for love in the best way possible!
Final Thoughts
So, who will love this book? If you adored Today Tonight Tomorrow, then run—do not walk—to grab this sequel! Rachel Lynn Solomon has a knack for capturing the intricacies of young love, and Past Present Future is no exception.
In a world where so many stories feel formulaic, this one felt like a warm hug. It left me grateful to witness Neil and Rowan’s journey, feeling as though I’d just experienced a slice of real life alongside them. After reading this gem, I can confidently say I’m still a hopeless romantic, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
If you’ve stuck with me this far, thank you! I can’t wait to hear your thoughts on this unforgettable journey. 💖
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