And just like that, this book took another step forward as the most read book since I started this blog. Austen’s Pride and Prejudice is giving it a run for its money with three reads (Jan 2013; Aug 2013; Dec 2015; and an upcoming re-read), and if you count Austen adaptations it’s no contest. But, I’ve read Two for Trust five times now, twice in 2020 and then again in February 2023 and again in October of 2024.
I genuinely have no idea why I enjoy it so much. It’s a simple love story that’s decently written and it’s squeaky clean. There are a couple of heated moments and 1-2 super heated kisses, but that’s it and that’s definitely part of why I enjoy it. Part of it is how quickly I can read it—if I don’t start too late in the evening I can finish it in one sitting!
Maybe it’s because of this description of Benedict on page 4:
Because the new arrival to the tent defined each of those things—broad-chested with broader shoulders, honey-hazel eyes, and thick, dark hair—all packaged in fine tweeds and a caramel-colored sweater. He had big square hands, and the sweater hugged all the right places for Finch to get a sense of strength and innate physical confidence. Like an outsized Disney prince. (4)
Who knows? This one isn’t for everyone, but I very much enjoy it. You can go see other quotes and better written responses at the above links.
Recommendation: I have no clue why but this book does it for me. Even just writing this is making me want to go read it again!? The only other thing I’ll note, because I’ve written what I can about it in the other three posts, is that as soon as I decide to read it I get a smile on my face and that smile pretty much stays on my face throughout. (There are one or two moments where I get grumpy with Benedict or Finch, but those are fleeting.) Go find yourself a book like this—it’s probably not this one, but everyone should have one book that just does it for you.
Opening Line: “Finch turned into oncoming traffic, veered sharply back into the left lane, and waved an apology to the alarmed elderly couple in their little touring car.”
Closing Line: “Then he wanted to sneak them off to the conservatory and not return.” (Whited out to avoid spoilers, highlight to read.)