Title: Dear Agony
Author: Georgia Cates
First published March 1, 2017
317 pages, ebook
Rating: 4.15
Overview
Dear Agony has always been a constant companion to Rose. From childhood to adulthood, it has followed her every step of the way.
She thought she had left it behind when she traded her life on the streets for a luxurious one with her friend and mentor, Bash. But then everything changes.
Suddenly, she feels something more for Bash, something she never thought possible. But as they navigate their way through their feelings for each other, the shadow of Agony looms over them, threatening to destroy everything they’ve built.
In this heart-wrenching love story, Rose and Bash must confront their deepest fears and make the ultimate sacrifice to save each other. Will they be able to overcome the darkness that surrounds them, or will Agony win in the end?
Editoral Review
Georgia Cates’ novel Dear Agony is a poignant and emotional exploration of love, loss, and healing. First published in March 2017, the book plays with themes of obsession, pain, and healing within the context of a tumultuous romance.
The novel revolves around the story of a grief counselor, Lake McCormack, who is haunted by her own traumatic experiences. Lake’s world changes when she meets the enigmatic musician Rhett Carson, who is battling his own demons.
Despite their respective emotional baggage, the two characters are drawn to each other, leading to a relationship that is intense, raw, and passionate. The novel is set against the backdrop of Nashville, with its vibrant music scene providing a fitting backdrop for the story.
Cates’ writing is lyrical and evocative, painting vivid pictures of the characters’ inner thoughts and emotions. The prose is skillfully crafted, capturing the nuances of human relationships with sensitivity and depth.
One of the strengths of the book is how deftly it navigates the complexities of the human psyche, particularly as it relates to pain and trauma. Moreover, the pacing of the book is well-executed, with the story unfolding in a way that keeps the reader engaged throughout.
The characters are well-developed, with their flaws and insecurities adding depth and complexity to the story. As the plot unfolds, the reader is drawn into Lake and Rhett’s world, rooting for them as they attempt to heal from their past traumas.
One potential limitation of the book is that it may be too intense for some readers, particularly those who are triggered by depictions of trauma and pain. The book also relies heavily on certain tropes and cliches of the romance genre, which may put off readers who prefer more unconventional storytelling.
Despite these minor shortcomings, Dear Agony is a powerful and moving work of fiction that will leave readers feeling both heartbroken and hopeful. The novel can be considered a classic of the romance genre, exploring themes that are universal and timeless.
Readers who appreciate lyrical prose, engaging characters, and compelling stories that delve into the complexities of the human psyche will undoubtedly enjoy this book. Overall, this reviewer recommends Dear Agony to fans of romance, particularly those who enjoy stories that delve into the darker aspects of human emotion.
This book has the potential to be a hugely rewarding read for anyone who invests the time and emotional energy to fully engage with its themes and characters. This reviewer gives Dear Agony a rating of four out of five stars.
