This book narrates the compelling story of Evelyn, affectionately nicknamed Evie, and her two best friends, Otis and Dean, who have shared an unbreakable bond since their college days. The narrative intricately unfolds, revealing how Evelyn, upon discovering that Otis is Deaf, took it upon herself to learn American Sign Language (ASL) with remarkable dedication and enthusiasm. This effort not only deepened their friendship but also showcased her commitment to ensuring that their communication remained seamless and meaningful. Evelyn had previously been involved in a romantic relationship with Otis's brother, Dean, a connection that ultimately ended in heartbreak when Dean betrayed her trust and left her for someone else.
During this tumultuous time, Otis stood by her side, providing unwavering support and understanding as she navigated the painful aftermath of the breakup. Fast forward seven years, and the enduring friendship between Evelyn and Otis remains strong and resilient.
Evelyn now owns a charming coffee shop named Bohemia, a warm and inviting space where quirky yet delightful mugs adorn the walls, each with its own unique story and personality. The shop has become a beloved local hangout, filled with the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the sound of laughter and conversation. Interestingly, Dean has returned to town and taken on the role of her coffee supplier, adding an unexpected twist to the dynamics of their relationships. The trope of Friends to Lovers is beautifully woven throughout the narrative, capturing that enchanting "It's always been you" vibe that draws readers in and keeps them completely hooked.
Otis, who has secretly harbored a crush on Evelyn for years, has always cherished her as his best friend. However, the complexity of her past relationship with Dean has made him hesitant to consider the possibility of a romantic relationship beyond friendship. Meanwhile, Evelyn grapples with her own personal struggles, including anxiety and panic attacks, which she manages through a unique coping mechanism—fingerspelling the names of objects around her, such as "table," "chair," and "coffee," whenever she feels overwhelmed. This practice not only helps her regain her composure but also serves as a poignant reminder of her connection with Otis, who is always observant and attentive to her needs.
One memorable evening, Otis and Evie find themselves hanging out at a local bar, enjoying each other's company and the carefree atmosphere. However, their night takes a dark turn when they are suddenly attacked by intruders, leading to a harrowing experience that leaves Otis injured. As Evelyn nurses him back to health, the intensity of the situation forces them both to confront the deeper feelings they have for one another, feelings that had long been buried beneath the surface of their friendship. In this vulnerable moment, they begin to recognize the potential of their relationship evolving into something much more profound and meaningful.
As Evelyn continues to manage her panic attacks, she also becomes a source of strength for Otis, who is dealing with his own PTSD stemming from the traumatic incident. Together, they navigate the complexities of their emotions, the challenges posed by their pasts, and the lingering presence of Dean in their lives. Their journey of self-discovery and healing is beautifully portrayed, highlighting the power of love, friendship, and resilience as they strive to redefine their relationship and embrace the possibility of a future together. The narrative captures the essence of their bond, illustrating how they support each other through their respective struggles, ultimately leading them to realize that sometimes, love has been there all along, waiting for the right moment to blossom.
"The right girl is going to bring you back one day Otis, and I want you to remember that I told you this. That girl you meet in the future? She won't just be a cute girl. She'll be the reason to want to exist again."
"He's in my head line, he's in my heart line. He's in my skin"
Dean is married, and he and his wife are eagerly anticipating the birth of their first child. However, beneath the surface of this joy, he grapples with intense feelings of jealousy regarding the close relationship between Evelyn and Otis. This jealousy is not merely a fleeting emotion; it is deeply rooted in Dean's insecurities and past experiences. In a moment of vulnerability, Dean confides in Otis, revealing a significant and long-held secret that Evelyn has kept hidden for years. This secret is intricately tied to the reasons that led Dean to initially leave Evelyn, a decision that haunts him and complicates his feelings toward her and Otis. As the discussion progresses, it becomes evident that Otis was already aware of this secret.
Otis harbors a secret of his own, one that he has kept buried for a long time. Since he was just 16 years old, Otis has chosen not to use his voice, a decision that stems from a traumatic event that left him feeling isolated and vulnerable. This silence has shaped his identity and his relationships, making it difficult for him to connect with others on a deeper level. In a poignant exchange, Otis and Evelyn begin to open up about their respective traumas, creating a safe space for one another to share their innermost fears and struggles. This act of vulnerability becomes a catalyst for healing, drawing them closer together as they navigate the complexities of their pasts.
Evelyn expresses her admiration for Otis in a heartfelt moment, telling him how much she loves the sound of his voice when he speaks her name. This simple acknowledgment not only highlights the beauty of their developing bond but also serves as a reminder of the power of communication and connection in overcoming personal barriers. Together, they embark on a journey of understanding, support, and emotional growth, forging a profound relationship that transcends their individual struggles.
"What is your favorite smell?" Evelyn signs
"Burning leaves." He signs back
"Your voice is burning leaves to me, Otis."
Please read the triggers warning first before reading this book. This book also has spicy scenes.
Book Blurb:
"E-V-E-L-Y-N." She spelled her name with her hand.
Otis was immediately intrigued by the beautiful girl who seemed to know enough sign language to introduce herself to him. Little did he know, shortly after that night, that the beautiful girl would end up in a relationship with his brother, Dean.
Until Dean left.
Left Chicago, left Evelyn and left Otis to clean up the mess.
Seven years later, Evelyn owns a coffee shop where Otis, a writer, spends his days writing fluff articles for a local paper. They have a steady, dependable friendship and they've come to rely on each other like family.
But after one harrowing night, their comfortable, easy relationship is catapulted into new territory. And for as close as they've always been, they've also shielded each other from the heaviest pieces of their pasts.
This is a story about two people finding a way to let go and believe that even when we feel like the things we want are beyond our reach; the power to change our path is always in our hands.
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