Say You’ll Remember Me By Abby Jimenez Book Review
Abby Jimenez’s “Say You’ll Remember Me” hits you right in the heart but also has a weight to it. It’s a story that blends deep emotional struggles with romance, and it’s definitely not your typical love story.
So, what’s this book about? It’s a contemporary romance with a serious edge. The story follows Samantha, who’s dealing with the heartbreak and challenges of her mother’s early-onset dementia, while also juggling a long-distance relationship with Xavier, a caring but somewhat grumpy veterinarian. Their love kicks off quickly, think insta-lust, and they’re thrown into a world of family drama, caregiving stress, and personal trauma. The tone balances humor and tenderness but leans heavily on the emotional and sometimes tough realities of life.
What really makes this book stand out is Abby Jimenez’s willingness to tackle heavy, often heartbreaking themes, dementia, family issues, grief, right alongside a romance. The characters feel real, especially Xavier, who many readers call one of Jimenez’s best book boyfriends: protective, sweet, and just a little bit gruff. Samantha’s caregiving role is portrayed with real depth and sensitivity, which really hit home for readers with similar experiences.
That said, this book has been pretty polarizing. Some people love the emotional honesty and complex family dynamics, while others found it exhausting or frustrating. There’s a lot of family drama, including some controversial character choices, like Samantha’s dad’s infidelity, that some felt were handled poorly or normalized in a way that didn’t sit right. Also, the romance moves fast, and at times it feels like we’re told more about how the couple feels than actually shown through their interactions. Plus, there’s a heavy dose of pop culture, TikTok slang, and recurring ACOTAR references that some found distracting or just plain irritating.
If you like slower burn romances with a lot of relationship development, or if you’re sensitive to intense family issues and triggers like dementia or emotional abuse, this might not be the book for you. But if you appreciate a story that’s raw and real, mixing laughter, tears, and a romance about sticking together through the hardest seasons, then you’ll probably connect with it. Fans of Jimenez who like when her books push beyond just lighthearted chick lit will find a lot to admire here.
Personally, I think “Say You’ll Remember Me” is one of those books that stays with you. It’s not just a romance; it’s a reminder that love often means standing by someone through life’s brutal moments. The characters’ struggles can feel heavy, and the pacing is a bit rushed in places, but the emotional core, especially around caring for someone with dementia and family issues, feels genuine. It might not be for everyone, but it’s definitely a story that shows the messy, beautiful reality of love and hardship.
If that sounds like your kind of story, definitely check it out. And if you’ve already read it, I’d love to hear what you thought!