Between Love and War by Kyra Ysabel (Magnolia Heights #3)
I’m so happy to be back in Magnolia Heights! The only neighborhood in the Philippines where you cannot hate the marites* because they are actually rooting for your happily ever after ✨
More than the romance, what I liked most about Between Love and War is how it tells a story of self-discovery and choosing to live with more intention. I deeply resonated with Kate's character, it's wonderful to be good, kind, and be always available to everyone but it can also be exhausting. And yet, as chronic people pleasers, we often find ourselves doing it again and again, even at our own expense, simply because it feels easier than saying no. Personally, I have been trying very hard to learn how to put myself first by creating healthier boundaries. It is such an uncomfortable process, but it is also necessary. Reading Kate’s story gave me the validation I needed that there is nothing wrong with change, especially if it leads to a happier and more fulfilling life.
Kate and Michael's love helped them become better versions of themselves, and that is the kind of love worth holding on to. An all-consuming love will always feel magical, but a love that allows you to grow and stay true to yourself is something truly extraordinary! 💖
This series has grown so close to my heart after the first two books that I could not wait to read Kate’s story. Thank you so much, Ms. @kyraysabelwrites, for making it happen by sending me this ARC!
*marites - a filipino slang referring to someone who knows all the rumors and gossips in the community
Kate Cruz is the epitome of the perfect girl next door. As a preschool teacher in a small town, she’s spent her life being patient, predictable, and painfully accommodating. She’s never had a boyfriend, never taken a real risk, and she’s perfectly fine with that. Until Michael Lee—the nation’s basketball golden boy who needs a clean slate.
After a public scandal threatens Michael’s career, his PR team’s solution is simple: disappear from the spotlight, lay low, and rack up some goodwill points by coaching the Little League at his niece’s preschool. All he has to do is behave, stay quiet, and impress Kate Cruz, the teacher in charge of his hours.
The problem? They can’t stand each other. Kate thinks he’s an arrogant, self-absorbed athlete. Michael thinks she’s a tightly wound goody-two-shoes who talks to him like he’s five.
But somewhere between disastrous arts-and-crafts sessions, an unexpected family trip, and one memorable dance during a blackout, their carefully drawn battle lines start to blur and they must decide if it’s worth the risk.
She bends to keep everyone happy. He builds walls to keep everyone out. What happens when their defenses finally crack?