A Love Story Worth Passing Through
5 out of 5 stars
Some books grab your heart and gently squeeze it, leaving you teary-eyed and smiling all at once. Passing Through is one of those books. From the very first chapter, I was hooked… transported to the lush, towering fir forests of Vancouver Island and immersed in a story that’s equal parts poignant, romantic, and downright magical. Having loved several of Katia Rose’s other works, I went into this one with high expectations, and let me tell you—it did not disappoint.
The characters are an absolute triumph. Emily Rivers, with her fierce determination and aching vulnerability, felt so real to me. Her struggles with balancing grief, responsibility, and her own happiness were perfectly painted by Rose. Then there’s Kim Jefferies—funny, charismatic, and impossible not to root for. Her backstory hit me deep in my core.
Watching these two navigate their undeniable chemistry while fighting their own fears was like watching a beautifully choreographed dance: every step perfectly timed, every misstep heartbreakingly human. The supporting cast, including the Rivers sisters and the ever-present charm of Three Rivers Campground, only added to the magic.
And speaking of magic—can we talk about the setting? Vancouver Island practically leaps off the page (or, in this case, the audiobook). I could practically hear the rustle of the trees and feel the crisp air of the forest as Emily and Kim stumbled their way into love. It’s funny, too, because I have friends who are actually moving to that area, and now I feel like I’ve already been there in spirit. Katia Rose’s descriptions brought it to life in a way that felt both idyllic and grounded, making it the perfect backdrop for this tender, slow-burn romance.
Of course, what really brought this story to life was the narration. Parker Everly and April Doty’s dual narration was pitch-perfect. Both Emily and Kim had distinct voices, full of emotion and nuance, which made it so easy to slip into their perspectives. The seamless back-and-forth between the two narrators felt natural and added depth to an already rich story. It’s not easy to capture the full spectrum of a character’s emotions in an audiobook, but they did it effortlessly, making the story all the more immersive.
Passing Through made me cry happy tears more than once and left me with a warm, fuzzy feeling that lingered long after the final chapter. I also adored the little tease at what might come next—fingers crossed that the rest of this series gets the audiobook treatment because I am so ready. If you’re looking for a heartwarming, soul-soothing romance with relatable characters, stunning scenery, and a perfect blend of humor and heart, this one’s for you.
Katia Rose has done it again, and I can’t wait to see where this series goes next. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to go plan a trip to Vancouver Island… or at least dream about it some more.
Book Description:
