A Book Review: Before I Let Go by Kennedy Ryan, A Journey of Love and Redemption

Before I Let Go by Kennedy Ryan is an emotionally charged story that delves deep into themes of love, loss, and forgiveness. Written from a dual point of view the novel is set in Atlanta and centered around characters Yasmen and Josiah who were the portrait of

the perfect marriage to everyone around them. That was until their divorce was triggered by immense and successive loss. The pain and grief were too much for the couple to handle. Instead of dealing with the tragedies together, they were driven apart by their distinct methods of handling grief.

With two children and a restaurant named Grits, they must find a way to co-parent the children and also co-manage their business. This makes their divorce all the more difficult. With interaction, they are each reminded of the reasons why they loved each other and the reasons why things fell apart.

Kennedy Ryan peppers flashbacks throughout the novel that will bring you back to those moments when the marriage started crumbling. Although, you’re also given the good ones that were significant hallmarks in Yasmen and Josiah’s relationship. You’re taken on the emotional rollercoaster of their pre-divorce relationship and their post-divorce.

Throughout the novel, I noticed that they had a constant lack of honesty and communication from both of the characters. I would say it could slightly fall into the category of miscommunication. Often both of the characters found themselves confused by the lingering sexual attraction and it was mentioned several times. We continue to be told how hot Josiah was or how hot Yasmen was. I found this a bit lackluster. I felt it would have been more powerful if they were thinking of the quirks they loved about each other instead. At times it felt like the relationship was all about sex.

Kennedy Ryan lightly touches on Yasmen’s depression that developed after her loss. I personally felt this could have been explored a little deeper. Without giving spoilers I can say there was a deeper connection that readers could make with Yasmen. Depression affects so many of us and as much as we might need tissues while reading about it, it helps us feel seen and validated. At times I felt myself connecting with Yasmen but something fell short.

Overall I enjoyed the story of a couple torn by the hardships of life. It reminded me that whether it be trivial things or life-changing events it can alter the dynamics of even the strongest relationships.

My Overall Book Review Rating

I gave this book Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5) on my good reads. Mostly due to the repetitiveness I encountered while reading the novel.

You can find this book on Amazon, Audible, and Libby (free with your library card, of course, there may be a wait time).

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A note to my readers **Novel trigger warnings include child loss and death.