As We Touch by Elle Rivers was an amazing next installment in the Srawberry Springs series. Piper and Theo are both compelling characters, and the sweet, gentle relationship they develop has a wonderful foundation of respect.
I really enjoy how Elle Rivers weaves in representation of different mental health struggles into her stories. The characters’ struggles manage to be consistently present without overwhelming the plot. As We Touch is a great example of how to show a character’s difficulties without reducing their identity.
That’s actually what a lot of this book focuses on–understanding that Piper’s past trauma and her resulting difficulties with touch are not her only qualities. She’s funny, brash, and quietly brave, and part of the reason she falls in love with Theo is that he sees her as a whole person, not just a victim. Piper also helps Theo learn how to trust others when they say they love him. This story isn’t one where the guy saves the girl; Piper and Theo save each other and grow stronger together.
I also liked how Rivers showed that the most well-meaning friends can be harmful. Piper’s friend, Joey, wants to keep Piper safe. However, he’s unable to look past that desire and see that he is constricting Piper, holding her back, and ultimately harming her. Theo and Joey are such great contrasts–Theo gives Piper a safe place to land, while pushing her to explore and spread her wings, and Joey tries to cage Piper for his own peace of mind.
Overall, this was an amazing read. Elle Rivers takes small-town romance, which can often be tropey and repetitive, and gives it depth. I can’t wait for the next one.
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