Book Review: The Way I Am Now (The Way I Used to Be) by Amber Smith
When I first picked up The Way I Am Now, I felt a familiar flutter of anticipation. Having been captivated by the emotional depth of its predecessor, The Way I Used to Be, I was eager to dive back into Eden’s world, eager for her journey to continue. Amber Smith has a unique talent for pulling readers into the heart of complex emotions, and this sequel is no exception.
The Way I Am Now picks up with Eden as she navigates college life while dealing with the repercussions of her past trauma. This new chapter finds her reconnecting with Josh, a relationship that feels both promising and fraught with the weight of their shared histories. Eden’s struggle to reclaim agency against the backdrop of her ongoing trial is not just a plot device; it’s a poignant exploration of healing, love, and the difficult path toward recovery.
One of the book’s most compelling themes is the resilience of love. Smith’s portrayal of Eden and Josh’s relationship feels genuine, oscillating between tender moments and the harsh challenges they face. There’s a rawness to their interactions that resonates—Eden’s growth into a stronger individual is a triumph, and witnessing her evolve into someone who begins to reclaim herself is incredibly rewarding.
The writing style is lyrical yet accessible. Smith’s ability to convey deep emotions through sharp dialogue and vivid descriptions allows readers to feel every high and low alongside the characters. For instance, Eden’s moments of self-doubt and fear are articulated with such heart that they linger long after reading. One line that struck me was, "Healing isn’t linear; it’s a series of waves, sometimes crashing, sometimes retreating." This encapsulated my own understanding of trauma and recovery.
However, as much as I adored Eden’s journey, I found myself craving a bit more resolution regarding certain plot points, particularly the trial’s outcome. It felt a tad rushed, leaving me with lingering questions that I wished had been addressed. Still, this only emphasizes the book’s focus on growth over mere justice, an empowering narrative choice that reflects life’s imperfect realities.
If you’re someone who finds solace in stories that tackle complex issues with honesty—especially themes of trauma, love, and resilience—then The Way I Am Now is definitely for you. It’s a beautifully written exploration of healing that reminds us that while the path may be dotted with challenges, it’s also paved with moments of profound connection and hope.
In the end, I closed the book feeling grateful for Eden and Josh’s story. While I was left wanting for more details, I also appreciated the space for readers to imagine what comes next for these two. It’s a testament to how well Smith has crafted her characters that they linger in my mind, urging me to reflect on my own journey alongside theirs. If you’re looking for a poignant read that resonates with emotional truth, this book deserves a spot on your shelf.
You can find The Way I Am Now (The Way I Used to Be) here >>