The Love Study: A New Adult Romance

The characters in Kris Ripper’s novel The Love Study are unique and complex, and just plain wonderful. Leave it to Kris Ripper to write something so wholly original, poignant, and thoughtful. The Love Study made me smile, and sometimes that’s all it takes to affirm my faith in the power of love, right when I need it most! There hasn’t been a character who affected me quite as powerfully as Sidney in a very long time. Doing their best to thrive, they’ve created a safe place where they fit into the world. I know it’s constant work, but Sidney’s careful and intelligent approach to life is a real inspiration. They are a unique and complex character, and it’s yet another testament to the extremely high quality of Kris Ripper’s writing that we only get to know them through Declan’s story. Speaking of Declan, what reader’s heart doesn’t break just a bit when his story starts out with the statement that he left his last boyfriend at the altar? Declan and his jilted fiancé Mason have worked hard to ensure their friendship survives, along with their places in their mutual friend group. The love and support these two provide for each other is admirable. This is Declan’s first relationship since his disastrous attempt at marriage, and to say he’s a bit of a mess is putting it mildly. He’s on very shaky ground because he thinks of himself as unable to commit, or being unworthy of someone’s love. Heck, Declan doesn’t even want a permanent position of employment and chooses to do temp work instead. As the story progresses, it is clear what a truly amazing person Declan is. His friendships are solid, his boss adores him, and facing his fear of relationships is a great first step toward finding love in his life again. Even more courageous is how Declan opens his heart and bares his insecurities when he discovers his feelings for Sidney. I admire this guy’s ability to confront and deal with his anxiety. I have to say that I wish I had a bit more of Declan’s characteristics inside me. The Love Study is a classic Kris Ripper novel. Centered around personal growth, this emotional story tugged on my heartstrings, and made me look at love in a new light. As with all Kris Ripper’s writing, ze propels me to think hard about my place in the world and the relationships I have with others. For all of that, The Love Study is filled with lightness and humor. Quirky characters with clever, sassy dialogue kept me smiling the whole way through. Declan and Sidney and their eclectic group of friends are sure to be back in future episodes of Kris Ripper’s The Love Study series. Personally, I hope it’s Declan’s jilted ex Mason, but I’ll try to be patient and wait to see whose story is next!

I really enjoyed this romance. I found it very fresh and original. The storyline was fun and had a lot of heart. The characters were likable and in Sidney's case, quite groundbreaking. I felt that Declan and Sidney made a cute couple, that worked well together. A beautiful and important love story that was a pleasure to read. I am freely posting a frank, review.