Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ (4.5/5)

Hello friends! I just recently finished Say You’ll Remember Me by Abby Jimenez, and I have to say, this one is a story I won’t soon forget. It hits you right in the feelings in all the best ways. If you love stories about fate, second chances, and the wild, beautiful messiness of long-distance relationships, you’re going to want to add this to your TBR list right away.

The story starts in Minnesota, where Sam brings a tiny, sick kitten to the vet and meets Xavier the H-O-T vet. Right away, you get a sense of who these characters are: Sam, fiercely compassionate and unwilling to give up on her new furry friend, and Xavier, the pragmatic but deeply caring vet who recommends euthanasia because of the kitten’s expensive medical needs. Sam refuses to give up, launching a GoFundMe to save the kitten. Even Xavier, moved by her determination, donates to the fund!

Weeks later, when the kitten needs a checkup so she can get on a flight, Sam returns to Xavier’s clinic. Their chemistry is instant and undeniable, and when Xavier finally asks her out, their first date is the kind of magical, awkward, and unforgettable you can only hope for in a romance novel. But just as things are getting started, Xavier learns that Sam is going to California that very day, and not just for a visit. The timing couldn’t be worse, but Xavier knows this can’t be the end of their story.

What I loved most about Say You’ll Remember Me is how real and relatable the characters and their challenges are. This isn’t just about the whirlwind romance; it’s about two people who have to fight for their connection, even when life pulls them in opposite directions. Xavier’s working to prove himself, his strong sense of right and wrong, and his willingness to work himself to the bone just to be near Sam, made me root for him so hard. He’s the kind of hero who doesn’t just talk about love, he proves it over and over again.

And don’t think I don’t also love our girl, Sam! I absolutely adored her. Her sense of family and commitment to staying in California to be there and care for her mother is so authentic and grounded. She’s not willing to give up her life or her values for anyone, even someone she might be falling for, and I loved that about her. The way Abby Jimenez explores the push and pull of long-distance relationships, the compromises, the late-night phone calls, and the ache of missing someone you love, felt so real.

This book is a beautiful reminder that love at first sight isn’t just about sparks and fireworks. It’s about choosing each other, day after day, even when it’s hard. But don’t think it’s all hard work; there are plenty of sweet, funny, and heartfelt moments that will keep you turning the pages. My only wish for this story is that I wanted to have a little more story with Xavier and Sam together living in the same place, but honestly, the longing and anticipation made their reunions even sweeter.

If you’re looking for a romance that’s as much about working through life’s challenges as it is about falling in love, Say You’ll Remember Me is a must-read. Abby Jimenez has once again delivered a story that makes you believe anything is possible when love is involved. I highly recommend this one, friends! Until next time, happy reading!