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This book had me at the title.  Anyone who knows me, knows that I tend to gravitate toward books that don’t take the easiest, smoothest paths.  I want to be pulled into the lives of the characters and taken on their journey, and if it happens to break my heart in the process, then so be it.

Leslie Cohen’s debut novel was just what I was in the mood for.  As soon as I finished reading it, I immediately went on a search to find out if she had any other books in the works.  Yes, this book was that good!

I’m always drawn to characters that are quirky and walk to the beat of their own drum, and Eve was certainly a quirky character.  I found myself smiling and laughing at some of her antics, but there was so much more to her.  As the story progressed and more and more was revealed about Eve’s life, I was able to get a better understanding of the young woman that she was.  She was an intriguing character who I found myself rooting for right from the beginning, and the more I got to know her, the more endearing she became.  She didn’t always make the best choices or decisions.  She was flawed and made her share of mistakes.  She was attracted to people who were also flawed, and who had their own fair share of baggage and inner turmoil. Several times, I found myself shaking my head and thinking don’t do it, Eve. 

Eve and Ben had been acquaintances for years, through mutual friends.  There was never anything between them until they had a moment and connected.  Ben was nothing like the men that Eve was used to dating.  He wasn’t melancholy or stuck in his own head.  He offered up a sense of safety that Eve hadn’t had for a long time.  As much as I was on "Team Ben," I was wary of where their relationship could be heading.  With Eve, nothing ever felt wholly secure, on solid ground, or written in stone.  I always felt as though she could change her mind and turn on a dime with whatever idea popped into her head.  She could sabotage a good thing by reasoning with herself that it would all be for the best in the long run.

This Love Story Will Self-Destruct was everything that I enjoy in a novel.  I felt as though I was right there with the characters on the lively, colorful streets of New York City.  It had all of the humor, heart, and depth that I crave in this genre.  With a vibrant cast of characters and an all-consuming story that I was completely enamored with, I will definitely be on the lookout for more from this talented author.

*4.5 Stars 

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