In her latest novel, “Say You’ll Remember Me,” #1 New York Times bestselling author Abby Jimenez delivers a poignant romance that examines what happens when two people fall in love despite a seemingly impossible barrier: 2,000 miles of physical distance. Unlike typical romance novels where external conflicts can be neatly resolved, Jimenez presents readers with a central dilemma that doesn’t have an easy solution – and that’s what makes this story so compelling and heart-wrenching.
Xavier Rush is a dedicated veterinarian who has built his practice from the ground up in Minnesota, carrying significant debt but also tremendous pride in his accomplishment. Samantha Diaz is a witty social media manager for a mustard brand who returns to California to help care for her mother with progressing dementia. When these two meet over a kitten with a medical condition, sparks fly—but so do harsh words. Their chemistry is undeniable, but their life circumstances make a relationship seem impossible.
Standout Elements: What Makes This Novel Shine
Authentic Characters Facing Real-World Problems
Jimenez has crafted characters that feel fully realized. Xavier’s stoic demeanor masks deep emotional wounds from his abusive childhood, while Samantha’s quick wit and creative spirit hide her fear of losing her mother to dementia. Both protagonists are flawed but deeply lovable.
The supporting cast is equally well-developed:
- Samantha’s family, particularly her brother Tristan with his dramatic flair and petty vendettas
- Xavier’s loyal staff at his veterinary clinic
- Dr. Hank, an elderly veterinarian who becomes a pivotal character and wise mentor
A Fresh Take on Romance Obstacles
While many romance novels feature contrived or easily solvable problems, “Say You’ll Remember Me” presents an obstacle that feels genuine and insurmountable:
- Xavier is tied to Minnesota by substantial business debt
- Samantha cannot leave California because her mother needs her care
- Neither character can afford frequent cross-country travel
This central conflict creates genuine tension that doesn’t feel manufactured, making the emotional payoff more satisfying when it comes.
Humor Balancing Heartbreak
Despite the serious themes, Jimenez infuses the story with genuine humor:
- Samantha’s work creating viral content for a mustard brand
- The infamous “Come On Eileen” musical motif that becomes their inside joke
- A memorable scene involving a tornado of leaves and a mummified mouse in a car
- Samantha accidentally swallowing an earbud while grieving
These moments of levity provide necessary relief from the heavier emotional aspects of the story, creating a reading experience that feels balanced rather than oppressive.
Writing Style: Alternating Perspectives That Enhance the Story
Jimenez employs dual first-person perspectives, alternating between Xavier and Samantha’s viewpoints throughout the novel. This approach works particularly well for this story because:
- It allows readers to understand both characters’ internal struggles
- It heightens the sense of separation when they’re apart
- It creates dramatic irony when one character makes assumptions about the other’s feelings
The prose is conversational and accessible while still conveying emotional depth. Dialogue feels natural and distinct to each character—particularly impressive in a large ensemble cast where each person maintains their own voice.
Addressing the Weaker Elements
While “Say You’ll Remember Me” has many strengths, there are a few aspects that could have been stronger:
Pacing Issues in the Middle Section
After the strong opening and their first separation, the middle portion of the book focusing on Samantha’s grief and Xavier’s illness stretches a bit too long. The repetitive nature of their longing starts to feel belabored, and some scenes could have been condensed to maintain momentum.
Somewhat Predictable Resolution
While the journey is emotionally satisfying, the ultimate resolution to their dilemma follows a somewhat predictable romance pattern. The “grand gesture” ending, while heartwarming, doesn’t fully address the practical realities that would still face this couple.
Underdeveloped Secondary Storylines
A few secondary plot threads feel underdeveloped:
- Xavier’s parents’ storyline concludes somewhat abruptly
- The “wine cellar imprisonment” running joke with Tristan never quite pays off
- Samantha’s career transition happens largely off-page
Emotional Impact: The Heart of the Story
Where Jimenez truly excels is in creating emotional resonance. The parallel stories of separation—Xavier from Samantha, and Samantha from her mother’s fading memory—create a powerful thematic throughline about what it means to witness someone’s life and be witnessed in return.
Several scenes stand out for their emotional impact:
- Xavier and Samantha trapped in the “UFO” escape room overnight
- Their separation at the airport with the devastating line “You forget me”
- Xavier caring for Samantha’s family during their grandmother’s funeral
- The heart-to-heart conversation in the hospital when both admit how difficult their separation has become
These moments elevate the novel beyond typical romance fare, asking deeper questions about what we’re willing to sacrifice for love and how we build meaningful connections.
Themes That Resonate
The Importance of Being Witnessed
The novel’s central theme revolves around being “witnessed” by others—having someone know your story and validate your existence. This theme manifests in:
- Samantha’s mother losing her memories and identity
- Xavier’s childhood trauma being unseen by those who should have protected him
- The creation of shared memories that form the foundation of deep relationships
Family Bonds: Chosen and Biological
Jimenez explores different types of family connections:
- Xavier’s chosen family of friends who supported him when his biological family failed him
- Samantha’s biological family rallying to care for their mother despite their differences
- The way love interests become integrated into existing family structures
Sacrifice and Compromise
Both protagonists must decide what they’re willing to sacrifice for love, raising questions about:
- Career versus relationship priorities
- Pride versus practicality
- Independence versus interdependence
Comparison to Jimenez’s Other Works
Fans of Jimenez’s previous books will find familiar elements in “Say You’ll Remember Me,” but this novel feels more emotionally mature than some of her earlier works. While “The Friend Zone,” “The Happy Ever After Playlist,” and “Life’s Too Short” tackled serious issues like infertility and terminal illness, this novel’s exploration of dementia and long-distance relationships feels more nuanced and less plot-driven.
Compared to her more recent novels like “Yours Truly” and “Part of Your World,” this book maintains Jimenez’s trademark humor but leans harder into the emotional aspects of the relationship.
Final Verdict: A Moving Romance That Lingers
“Say You’ll Remember Me” is not a light, fluffy romance—it’s a story that will make you laugh, cry, and reflect on what truly matters in relationships. Jimenez has crafted characters who feel real enough that readers will genuinely care about their happiness, and a love story that acknowledges the messy realities of life while still delivering hope.
The novel is a good read for its emotional depth, well-developed characters, and balanced approach to serious themes. While the pacing lags slightly in the middle and some plot resolutions feel convenient, these minor flaws don’t detract significantly from the overall impact of the story.
For readers who enjoy:
- Emotional depth in romance novels
- Characters facing realistic obstacles
- Stories about family dynamics
- Long-distance relationship challenges
- Humor balancing serious themes
“Say You’ll Remember Me” will satisfy those seeking a romance that goes beyond surface-level attraction to explore deeper questions about commitment, sacrifice, and what it truly means to love someone—even when circumstances make it nearly impossible.
If you enjoyed this book, consider reading Emily Henry’s “Book Lovers” or Christina Lauren’s “Love and Other Words” for similar emotional depth with romantic storytelling. And of course, Jimenez’s backlist offers plenty more opportunities to laugh and cry with characters who feel like friends by the final page.
Human Verdict: A memorable romance that will make you believe in love’s ability to overcome even the most daunting obstacles—just keep tissues nearby.
