The Girl He Used to Know by Tracey Garvis Graves

New York Times bestselling author of On the Island, Tracey Garvis Graves, presents the compelling, hopelessly romantic novel of unconditional love.

Annika (rhymes with Monica) Rose is an English major at the University of Illinois. Anxious in social situations where she finds most people's behavior confusing, she'd rather be surrounded by the order and discipline of books or the quiet solitude of playing chess.

Jonathan Hoffman joined the chess club and lost his first game—and his heart—to the shy and awkward, yet brilliant and beautiful Annika. He admires her ability to be true to herself, quirks and all, and accepts the challenges involved in pursuing a relationship with her. Jonathan and Annika bring out the best in each other, finding the confidence and courage within themselves to plan a future together. What follows is a tumultuous yet tender love affair that withstands everything except the unforeseen tragedy that forces them apart, shattering their connection and leaving them to navigate their lives alone.

Now, a decade later, fate reunites Annika and Jonathan in Chicago. She's living the life she wanted as a librarian. He's a Wall Street whiz, recovering from a divorce and seeking a fresh start. The attraction and strong feelings they once shared are instantly rekindled, but until they confront the fears and anxieties that drove them apart, their second chance will end before it truly begins.

4.5 Stars

The Girl He Used to Know is another fabulous read by this author. This author is a favorite of mine. She knows how to make you feel every emotion that the characters are going through. This book is raw and emotional with a surprising twist. 

We really understand the story of how Annika and Jonathan met and reconnected as it flip flops from the past and present throughout the book. Annika is a unique character who you just want to befriend, even with all her quirkiness and honesty. And it's exactly what made Jonathan Hoffman fall for her ten years ago in college. 

Annika and Jonathan shared a special bond. Jonathan understood her the way no one else did and she brought out the best of  him. But after college plans fall through, their college love affair took a toll and they grew apart. Ten years later, Annika and Jonathan reconnect and begin to rekindle their friendship and romance. They are older and been through a lot over the years, but still the same with each other. 

A fabulous second chance story.