Next to Me

4.5Now I was hesitant about reading this as I loved Out On A Limb so much and was rather disappointed in Out Of The Woods and it made picking up this book more difficult.That being said I was so surprised by this book. I absolutely loved the characters. Warren was grumpy but in the best way possible. Yes he judged Chloe before knowing her but then Chloe judged the fact that Luke would be an issue based on his age and that he was in the system which I thought was very hypocritical of her but then I also understand why when she had her new-born sister to think about.What I liked that they thought about Willow, Luke and the CPS assessment before rushing into anything. The progression of their relationships with each other was so good to read. I understand why Luke did what he did in regards to their dad but I just don't understand why he wasn't more honest knowing the situation. I am glad the situation last too long.I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to read the next one.

Can't go wrong with MS HANNAH BONAM YOUNG!!

4.25/5 ⭐Summary:Next of Kin by Hannah Bonam-Young is a heartwarming contemporary romance that follows 22-year-old Chloe, who has spent most of her life in the foster care system, learning to rely on no one but herself. When she gets the chance to take custody of her baby sister, she’s determined to give her the stable home she never had. However, to qualify for guardianship, she must prove she has a strong support system—something she lacks. Enter Warren, a grumpy yet kindhearted 25-year-old who is also fighting for custody of his teenage brother. A social worker suggests they team up, pretending to be a committed couple to meet the court’s requirements. As they navigate their arrangement, their forced proximity turns into genuine companionship, and soon, deeper feelings begin to develop. Next of Kin is a beautifully crafted story about found family, healing from past wounds, and discovering that love—both romantic and familial—can be the strongest foundation of all.Characters:Chloe Porter is the resilient and fiercely independent protagonist of Next of Kin. Having grown up in the foster care system, she has learned to rely only on herself. When she discovers she has a baby sister, she is determined to gain custody and provide the stable, loving home she never had. Chloe is strong-willed, compassionate, and resourceful, but her past trauma makes it difficult for her to trust others. Throughout the novel, she learns to open her heart, not just to her sister, but also to Warren, challenging her belief that she must always face life alone. Warren Gallagher is a 25-year-old man who, despite his gruff exterior, has a deep sense of responsibility and kindness. He is fighting for custody of his teenage brother, Luke, determined to give him a better life. Warren agrees to the fake relationship with Chloe so they can both meet the requirements for guardianship, but as they spend more time together, he becomes a pillar of support for her. His patience, understanding, and quiet strength contrast with Chloe’s guarded nature, making their dynamic one of mutual growth and healing. Willow is Chloe’s infant sister and the reason for her newfound determination to build a family. Though she is too young to play an active role in the story, her presence symbolizes hope and a fresh start for Chloe. She represents the love and connection that Chloe has longed for, pushing her to take risks and trust in the possibility of happiness. Luke Gallagher is Warren’s teenage brother, who has also experienced hardship and instability. He is initially wary and struggles to trust Warren’s ability to take care of him, but over time, he begins to see his older brother’s dedication. His presence in the story adds another layer of emotional depth, as both Chloe and Warren navigate the complexities of forming their unconventional family. Review:This book is a beautifully heartfelt and emotionally rich romance that goes beyond the typical love story. Hannah Bonam-Young masterfully blends themes of found family, resilience, and healing in a way that feels deeply personal and authentic. The novel follows Chloe and Warren, two individuals shaped by their past traumas, who form an unexpected partnership to gain custody of their younger siblings. What begins as a practical arrangement soon blossoms into something more, as they navigate the complexities of love, trust, and emotional vulnerability. The writing is both witty and emotionally raw, balancing humor with poignant moments that tug at the heartstrings. The novel doesn’t shy away from exploring the difficulties of the foster care system and the emotional scars it leaves, making the characters' journeys feel even more rewarding. While the relationship trope is familiar, Next of Kin breathes new life into it with its emphasis on healing and genuine connection.