Beg, Borrow, or Steal Review

Beg, Borrow, or Steal by Sarah Adams

I chose this book because it was a New Release in January 2025.

Beg, Borrow, or Steal by Sarah Adams (4.5/5 stars) is a heartwarming and emotionally rich story that blends romance, vulnerability, and humor in a way that feels both genuine and unforgettable.

Jack was an absolute standout. His charisma, depth, and quiet wisdom made him one of the most memorable book boyfriends I’ve read in a while. One of my favorite moments came when he said, "That's the trick with getting people to like you. It's not about making up shit, it's having an eye to find the best parts of them to bring up. Paying attention to the small things." That line perfectly captures who Jack is—someone who sees and values people deeply, and it made me fall for his character even more.

Emily, meanwhile, was incredibly relatable. Her internal struggles, resilience, and emotional honesty made her feel like someone I could know—or even be. She’s the kind of character who says things you’ve thought but never had the words for. When she reflects, "Whoever said time heals all wounds was a damn liar, because sometimes my heart hurts the worst from the memories that time has erased," I felt that line in my bones. It’s raw, real, and painfully true.

I also loved the emotional grounding that came from her relationships outside of the romance—especially when she recalls the advice, "She told me to find someone someday who will hug me when I'm sad and then help me look on the bright side of things when all I can see is dark." That sentiment carries through the whole story, and Sarah Adams illustrates it beautifully through Jack and Emily’s growing connection.

The storytelling throughout was compelling, with a perfect balance of swoon-worthy romance and genuine emotional growth. The pacing kept me turning pages, and the dialogue sparkled with both humor and heart. The only reason I gave it 4.5 instead of a full 5 stars is because I found myself wishing for just a bit more depth in a few parts—but that didn’t take away from how much I thoroughly enjoyed this read.

If you're looking for a contemporary romance that’s full of heart, healing, and characters who truly feel, Beg, Borrow, or Steal is a must-read.