No Matter What

No Matter What was one of my most anticipated reads for 2026. I loved Promise Me Sunshine. Just like that book, No Matter What was also a deeply emotional read. Cara Bastone has a way of writing that is uniquely her. I found myself re-reading passages because they were just so beautifully written and truly touched my heart. The two main characters Roz and Vin had lived through a traumatic accident after which they both developed serious cases of PTSD. They didn't know how to handle their feelings, and their marriage went into a state of crisis. There was miscommunication, but in this instance I felt it was realistic. Through everything, it was evident that they desperately loved each other and would not be giving up easily. It was hard show more to read at times, but so worth it. I appreciated that the author didn't rush the ending, but again realistically showed Roz and Vin working toward managing their new normal. Towards the end of the book, we get an update on Ethan from Ready or Not and I just have to say that I hope Cara gives us the rest of his story as well. I highly recommend this book, and I will be re-reading it because I know I'll pick up a lot more the second time through.

I end with a sincere thank you to Cara Bastone for sending me a finished and signed copy of this book along with the special artwork card. I love them so much. The pre-order that I had gotten before this was donated to my local library so that many people will be able to have a chance to read it.

#NewYorkCity #MarriageinTrouble #MarriageinCrisis #BestFriendsBrother #ManagingMentalHealth #ArtasTherapy #Storytelling #EmotionalRomance

FYI Marriage in Crisis; Personal Injury and Trauma; PTSD; Mental Health Rep; Open Door; Some Profanity show less

4.5 stars

This book is quirky, genuinely laugh-out-loud funny, and also deeply wise.

It made me want to sign up for a drawing class immediately, aware I’d probably be disappointed when it didn’t turn out to be like this hilarious, imperfect, deeply human group of people. But that’s the magic of this story, it makes ordinary spaces feel alive and transformative.

At its core, this is a marriage in trouble done right. It thoughtfully explores PTSD, trauma, and the quiet ways they can haunt love, communication, and intimacy. Roz’s journey through art feels like healing in motion. It’s messy, vulnerable, intimate, and raw. This is self-discovery and rediscovery happening in real time.

And Vin. He doesn’t say much, but he doesn’t show more need to. In the small moments, the touches, the actions, the way he shows up. you can see how deeply he sees Roz and cares for her. He says everything without saying anything at all, and I loved him for it.

This story pays such careful attention to how different people communicate their thoughts, emotions, and desires. There’s so much quiet wisdom here. I’ll be thinking about “Draw, Antonio, draw…” for a long time.

A friend described stories like this as a “slice of life,” and that couldn’t be more accurate. This book is a slice of life. refreshing, honest, and achingly real.

And listen. The last ten percent? I was smiling… and then absolutely crying in PUBLIC. Happy tears though. Highly recommend. show less

Miscommunication is my least favorite trope, and this book is filled with it. Did I want to throw them in a room and lock the door till they figured things out? Absolutely! But, this book is about so much more. Roz and Vin both have lasting effects from the incident, handling things in different ways. I loved how some issues were resolved around the 2/3 mark, but then we got to see a whole new side of these characters before it all came together. Strong character development. Likable secondary characters. A heartfelt story. This was my second book by Cara Bastone, I look forward to her next book.

Thanks to NetGalley and The Dial Press for this ARC. This is my honest opinion.