Book Review: After the Climb by Kristen Ashley

After the Climb kicks off the River Rain series by Kristen Ashley and it does not disappoint. It was a great series starter with a beautiful second-chance romance. There were lots of amazing characters introduced which has me excited for more stories in the series. Be sure to check it out!

After the Climb (River Rain #1) by Kristen Ashley

The beginning of the binge-worthy, powerful, and heart-tugging saga from NYT bestseller Kristen Ashley.

They were the Three Amigos: Duncan Holloway, Imogen Swan and Corey Szabo. Two young boys with difficult lives at home banding together with a cool girl who didn’t mind mucking through the mud on their hikes.

They grew up to be Duncan Holloway, activist, CEO and face of the popular River Rain outdoor stores, Imogen Swan, award-winning actress and America’s sweetheart, and Corey Szabo, ruthless tech billionaire.

Rich and very famous, they would learn the devastating knowledge of how the selfish acts of one would affect all their lives.

And the lives of those they loved.

Start the River Rain series with After the Climb, the story of Duncan and Imogen navigating their way back to each other, decades after a fierce betrayal.

And introduce yourself to their families, who will have their stories told when River Rain continues.

4 out of 5 stars

After the Climb was a fantastic second-chance romance! The characters were exceptional and I loved all the emotion, healing, and hope woven in. I liked the depth, world-building, and different POVs. I felt invested the entire time and never wanted to put it down. I thought this story was an excellent introduction to the River Rain series and can’t wait for more.

I adored Imogen and Duncan. I loved learning about them from their youth to present day and felt so much for them and what they had gone through. It was emotional and painful but the way they finally came back together and moved on from the past was touching and beautiful. I loved how they viewed their past for what it was and how they moved forward. I thought they were sweet and playful together and loved their chemistry. This story was filled with so many great moments that gave me butterflies.

I loved the cast of characters and how they brought the story to life. I really liked getting to know Corey. I found him to be an interesting and complicated character. He was depraved and manipulative but also someone in pain. I could feel his jealousy and love for his friends all rolled into one. He did some pretty bad things and I spent most of the book not liking him. By the end, my heart hurt for him. Imogen's daughter Chloe was awesome! She was such an instigator and I love how full of life she was. I loved all of Imogen’s kids, Duncan’s kids, their friends, and the people they worked with.

This was a well-written story with great descriptions, I felt like I was a part of the world the author created. It was more emotion-driven with low-key drama and angst. I enjoyed the real-life situations and blending of families and how supportive all the kids were. This is one of those stories that just made me happy to read and left me with a feeling of hope and love.