Book Review: Sunday Morning (Sunday Morning, #1) by Jewel E. Ann
If there’s one author whose books have me returning again and again, it’s undoubtedly Jewel E. Ann. Her knack for storytelling weaves such intricate plots that I find myself caught up in the emotions and dilemmas of her characters. So when I picked up Sunday Morning, I was more than eager to dive into the world she had crafted. The blurb hinted at a tantalizing mix of taboo romance and personal growth, and I was ready to experience a thrilling ride.
This novel revolves around Sarah and Isaac, a charismatic duo caught in a complex love story that’s as much about self-discovery as it is about their burgeoning romance. Sarah, the sheltered pastor’s daughter, has her future already mapped out, or so she thinks, until Isaac—the older brother of her high school boyfriend—returns from military duty. The tension between them builds on an undercurrent of desire and conflict, pulling Sarah towards the dreams she’s yet to voice.
I found the premise utterly fascinating; the tension of forbidden love paired with the desire for freedom creates a potent mix. As Sarah navigates her feelings toward Isaac while still entangled with his brother, the emotional push and pull is palpable. However, it’s worth noting that while Isaac captivated me more than Sarah did, I really craved more of his perspective throughout the story. It almost felt like we were skimming the surface of his internal thoughts rather than diving deep into his emotional journey.
Ann’s writing style is often engaging, maintaining a solid pace throughout, which keeps the reader flipping pages. Her prose flowed nicely, almost effortlessly pulling me into the characters’ lives. Moments were incredibly vivid, especially in the more intimate scenes, yet I wished for a deeper connection through music—a vital element hinted at in the synopsis but not fully explored on the pages. I envisioned more poignant interactions grounded in their shared love for music, similar to Footloose and A Star is Born, but they felt relegated to the epilogue like an afterthought rather than an integral part of their journey.
On a more personal note, I found the emotional intensity a bit lacking, which may not be a common critique given other readers’ reactions. I had expected an angsty rollercoaster ride, yet I was left with a few mild tears instead of the emotional catharsis I had anticipated. Despite this, I appreciated the ups and downs of Sarah’s relationship with both her boyfriend and Isaac.
However, the closure left me wanting. The epilogue felt rushed and disjointed, providing a tidy ending but offering very little in the way of unpacking the characters’ healing processes. It wasn’t just that I needed more of their “happily ever after”; it felt like a chance to truly celebrate their growth was missed.
In conclusion, Sunday Morning is likely to resonate with readers who enjoy taboo romances laced with family drama and personal awakening. While it didn’t quite match the emotional landscape I was hoping for, Jewel E. Ann’s compelling storytelling continues to beckon me back. So, if you’re looking for a sweet, albeit imperfect dive into a world of love, conflict, and self-discovery, this could very well be your next read. It’s a journey that left me hopeful and pondering, as all good books should.
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