Love, Life, and A Million Kisses: A Book Review

Now, I must be frank with you – the hype surrounding this book on Instagram and TikTok led me down a path of anticipation. However, the reality proved far from satisfying. This review is an unfiltered discussion of the disappointing aspects of weak plotlines, lackluster characters, and the uncomfortable undertones that left me questioning the acclaim.
In the literary realm, a robust plot and compelling characters are the backbone of any engaging narrative. Unfortunately, in “A Million Kisses in Your Lifetime,” this crucial foundation seems to crumble beneath its shortcomings. This school bully and new adult romance claims to offer a riveting experience through the contrasting worlds of the Beaumont and Lancaster families. The plot, touted as a romance transcending societal expectations, left me wading through shallow waters. The narrative felt lackluster, resembling a wattpadish tale with a fragile premise that struggled to carry the story’s weight. The book places an unsettling emphasis on the heroine’s virginity, with the hero’s obsession bordering on discomfort. The narrative takes an unwarranted turn as it fixates on the idea of ‘corrupting’ the female protagonist, perpetuating outdated and problematic stereotypes. As the layers of the story unfold, so do the blatant instances of sexism and misogyny.
While characters evolving throughout a narrative can be a redeeming quality, “A Million Kisses in Your Lifetime” teeters on a delicate balance. Initially presented as the ‘good girl’ with unwavering morals, Wren Beaumont’s character wasn’t necessarily good, as she seemed judgmental and naïve. However, she improves as the story progresses, as her relationship with Crew deepens. Conversely, Crew Lancaster was introduced as the charismatic ‘bad boy’ with a magnetic allure. The promise of vulnerability and depth left me questioning the execution. Did Crew shed his exterior, revealing the layers of vulnerability as intended, or did the narrative fall short of this ambitious goal? I don’t think so.
Monica Murphy’s writing style is undeniably skillful, weaving words with finesse. Despite the shortcomings in the narrative, her ability to craft sentences and scenes cannot be overlooked. While the prose may testify to Murphy’s talent, the unfortunate mingling with a weak plot and characters diminishes its impact.