Act Your Age, Eve Brown

Talia Hibbert

4/5 🎂

**Trigger Warning: Ableist attitude towards autism**

***I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review***

In this third installment of the Brown Sisters series, we are given insight into the mind of Eve Brown. Eve is nothing like her sisters: she isn't driven like Dani and she certainly isn't organized like Chloe. No, Eve feels like a lost cause; worthless. When her parents essentially confirm her inner voice and cut her off for one year, Eve is in a tailspin. How will she find a job that sticks? Will she ever be enough?

Jacob owns a little bed and breakfast and is working towards recognition for his growing business. He's neat and organized, maybe even a little anal, but successful overall. Oh, and he has autism. It's not a big deal to Jacob, but not everyone treats him with respect or like an equal. What will happen when Eve literally crashes into his world?

What can I say? I absolutely love this series! I fell in love with Chloe’s story and have been so pleased to see Hibbert continue with the other sisters! This one was perhaps my favorite. Maybe it’s because I could relate to Eve the most, but I think it was also due to Jacob’s representation of autism. I love that Hibbert includes a marginalized community within each story. She provides such great and thoughtful representation. Eve's completely relatable narration only helps the story grow throughout the pages. I love the informal writing and realistic dialogue the most! It's not as cheesy as other romance books, which makes me want to continue reading (since I'm not rolling my eyes to the back of my skull).

I also enjoyed the setting of this book more than the others. I was reading it while curled up by the fire and something about the B&B really added to that comfort level. Even the living quarters of Jacob and Eve just set my mind at ease. It seemed so peaceful and cozy, just as a B&B should be.

Finally, I loved the body positivity! I'm so tired of reading books with female leads who are impeccable and the sex is revolved around her luscious and perfectly sculpted body. I would like more body positivity towards the male protagonists, too. I think it's an important thing to add, but I can understand why Jacob was described as he was. I honestly felt at home reading about Eve's insecurities and what later turns to acceptance. It was inspiring.

As much as I loved this book, however, I do have a few complaints. One, I wish autism was a little more hashed out. I understand that it's not a defining feature at all, but if Eve is going to make sudden realizations, I think it needs to be more apparent. I would have liked Jacob's background to be a little more prevalent. I would have liked his story to have more impact. I also want to note that there were a few instances where Jacob was referred to as autistic rather than someone with autism. It's such a minor transgression, but I know Hibbert wants to be as inclusive as possible. I think changing the language would go a long way for readers who have autism. Also, the sex scenes in this book made me a little more uncomfortable than the previous two. I don't know if it was the use of language, but I found myself skimming a little during those. I think that's my own personal preference, however, and many people will actually enjoy them. Finally, the relationship did feel a little rushed.. But, I can't actually fault the book for that! I love the short reads that don't drag out multiple break-ups, so I applaud Hibbert for her speed!

Overall, this book was wonderful and carried out my favorite traits of the series! I found myself dying to get back to the book and thinking about Eve and Jacob while I wasn't reading. It was such a fun, quick read and the romance truly helped me escape these trying times. Even though I received a free copy, I know I will also be buying the hardcopy once it’s released because it’s practically a sin not to.