01 Mar Book Review: Rule by Jay Crownover

I picked up Rule by Jay Crownover on a lazy Sunday afternoon, craving a story that would sweep me off my feet. The cover had been catching my eye for a while—a brooding, tattooed guy who seemed to have “trouble” written all over him. I had a feeling this was going to be one of those opposites-attract tales, and boy, was I right.

What’s it about?

Meet Rule Archer: a rebellious, tattooed bad boy with a penchant for living life on his own terms. He’s the kind of guy who turns heads and raises eyebrows wherever he goes. Then there’s Shaw Landon: a straight-A pre-med student, polished and perfect, who seems to have her entire life mapped out. On the surface, they couldn’t be more different. But their lives have been intertwined since their teenage years, connected by Rule’s late twin brother, Remy.

Shaw has always been a part of the Archer family’s life, especially after Remy’s tragic death. While everyone assumed Shaw and Remy were an item, the truth is Shaw’s heart has always secretly yearned for Rule. Rule, on the other hand, has always seen Shaw as his brother’s girl, making her off-limits in his mind.

The story kicks into high gear when a night of celebration leads to unexpected confessions and a passionate encounter between Rule and Shaw. This moment forces them to confront their true feelings and the misconceptions they’ve held onto for years. As they navigate their evolving relationship, they must also deal with external challenges: Rule’s strained relationship with his family, Shaw’s overbearing parents, and the societal judgments that come with their contrasting lifestyles.

Throughout the novel, both characters embark on personal journeys. Rule grapples with his grief over Remy’s death and his fear of vulnerability, while Shaw learns to assert her independence and fight for what she truly wants. Their relationship is a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with intense passion, heartfelt moments, and the inevitable conflicts that arise from their differing worlds.

What This Chick thinks:

Diving into Rule felt like indulging in a guilty pleasure that I didn’t want to end. The chemistry between Rule and Shaw is palpable from the get-go, making their journey from friends to lovers both believable and compelling. I appreciated how the author delved into deeper themes, such as grief, family dynamics, and personal growth, adding layers to what could have been a straightforward romance.

Rule’s character, in particular, stood out to me. Beneath his rebellious exterior lies a depth shaped by loss and a desire to be understood. Shaw’s unwavering belief in him, despite his flaws, showcases the transformative power of love and acceptance. Their banter is sharp and witty, providing moments of levity amidst the more intense scenes.

However, there were moments when the drama felt a tad over the top, and I found myself wanting to shake the characters into better communication. But then again, isn’t that the hallmark of young love? The push and pull, the misunderstandings, the fiery reconciliations—it all adds to the authenticity of their story.

In terms of writing style, Crownover’s prose is engaging and accessible, making it easy to get lost in the world she’s created. The supporting characters also add richness to the narrative, hinting at potential stories of their own, which is enticing for a series starter.

Final thoughts:

Rule is a captivating read that offers more than just a typical bad-boy-meets-good-girl narrative. It’s a story about breaking down walls, confronting past traumas, and finding love in unexpected places. If you’re in the mood for a romance that’s equal parts steamy and heartfelt, this one’s for you.

Rating: 8/10

Try it if you like:

• Beautiful Disaster by Jamie McGuire: A tumultuous romance between a good girl and a bad boy with a troubled past.
• Easy by Tammara Webber: A college romance that tackles serious issues while delivering a heartfelt love story.
• Wait for You by J. Lynn (Jennifer L. Armentrout): A story of love, healing, and second chances set in a college backdrop.

These novels, like Rule, explore the dynamics of opposites attracting, personal growth, and the challenges of young love.