The Five Stages of Falling in Love

The Five Stages of Falling in Love by Rachel Higginson is a lovely romance. Elizabeth Carlson has just lost her husband Grady. He had brain tumors and tried every treatment possible before he died. Elizabeth is left with uncontrollable grief and four young children. Elizabeth will have to work through the five stages of grief in order to get on with her life and find love again. 

Elizabeth and Grady had a great marriage. They were happily in love and enjoyed their life with their children. Blake, age 8; Abby, age 6; Lucy, age 4; and Jace, age 2. They are a handful, but they enjoy their children. Then Grady is diagnosed with brain tumors. They are inoperable, but they try every treatment available to get rid of them. Unfortunately, Grady's heart gives out and he passes away. Elizabeth and the children have to find a way to continue on without Grady. 

It is a constant struggle for Elizabeth. She does not want to get up but knows that she has to for the children. She is constantly angry and strikes out at everyone. Abby is also acting out. Elizabeth's sister, Emma is a big help. Then enters the new neighbor, Ben Tyler. He is very nice and understanding with Elizabeth and the children. At first Elizabeth does not want to accept help, but gradually Ben works his way into the families life. Slowly Elizabeth starts to fall in love as her grief over losing Grady starts to lessen. It will be a struggle, though, for Elizabeth. Elizabeth has different emotions battling inside her that she will have to deal with and handle. Her love for Grady and her new blossoming love for Ben. Elizabeth feels guilty for moving on, but she loves the way Ben makes her feel--alive! Ben will need a lot of patience and a lot of love! 

The Five Stages of Falling in Love is a sweet romance. At some points you just want to yell and shake Elizabeth because she is so steeped in grief and useless to everyone. The ending was very sweet and makes you sigh. I give The Five Stages of Falling in Love a 4 out of 5 stars! I hope you enjoy reading it. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. 

Thank you for visiting my blog and reading my review.  I am off to watch The Red Band Society!  Have a great Saturday evening and Happy Reading!

Kris