The Spirit of Love by Lauren Kate
Let’s get into the third romance book I’ve read this summer, and I’ve gotta say, something must have gotten into me to read all these romance books (I’m not a romance reader).
The Spirit of Love by Lauren Kate gave me such unique vibes in a way that I personally haven’t seen done, so bear with me as I explain without spoiling anything.
A Chance Encounter That Changes Everything
The story follows a writer/director named Fenny who has a huge show coming out about zombies (Zombie Hospital), and this is her first time directing. She’s very nervous, and to calm her nerves, she goes on a solo trip down to the Catalina Islands. There, after a storm, lightning and a landslide, she meets a Search and Rescue guy named Sam.
After losing his car and her camcorder, Sam — who is the sweetest guy, by the way — invites Fenny to his place. I want you to imagine the coziest cabin with the cutest fireplace and two people who are very attracted to each other but don’t know it yet.
Sam is quite the adventurer and a builder, and Fenny spends possibly the best weekend of her life with him. They do so many spontaneous things together, like diving in the ocean to hunt for some fresh fish to cook and zip-lining on a rig that Sam made himself.
But inevitably, Fenny has to go back to direct the show on Monday, and dread starts to pool in her head. Sam can’t go with her. But they’ve told each other they will find their way back to each other again. We know how these usually end, right?
Back on Set, but Her Heart’s Still on the Island
So, when Fenny goes back, as if things just can’t get any worse, she is told she won’t be directing the show anymore, and instead, this guy named Jude is replacing her. Not only is she furious, but this guy looks just like Sam. Yes, he does. Does she freak out and think Sam is Jude? Yes. Does she look crazy in front of the crew because she confuses Jude with Sam? Also yes. But that’s okay. Our girl’s head is still back in the islands.
Fast forward because I don’t want to give up the entire plot (I’m sure you wouldn’t want that either); Jude and Fenny start to get along so well (he is indeed very charismatic) that she starts building a connection with him, and he starts standing up for her and gives her credit for all the things she’s done for the show, which makes her respect him even more. We love a guy who stands up for the right thing (and the right person, maybe? Wink, wink).
So you guys can guess the rest. Two loves, one soul and one choice. Who will it be? Will it be Jude or Sam? I guess you’ll have to read to find out, because I am not spoiling.
Adorably Awkward, Visually Vivid, and Full of Feels
One of the things I loved about this book was how clear everything felt in my head. Like, I could literally picture that little cabin with the fireplace and the storm happening outside.
Fenny is not perfect; she makes mistakes, and she owns it. And there’s this cute tension-filled humor in some of the scenes that made me smile even when everything else was kind of falling apart.
If you’re in the mood for a romance that’s warm, a little weird in the best way, and nothing like your typical love story, The Spirit of Love is definitely worth picking up.
About Lauren Kate:
Lauren Kate is the #1 New York Times and internationally bestselling author of the Young Adult series Fallen and Teardrop, as well as The Betrayal of Natalie Hargrove. Her adult novels include By Any Other Name and The Orphan’s Song. Her middle grade debut novel, One True Wish, will publish in April 2023. Her books have been translated into more than 30 languages. She lives in Los Angeles with her family.
