A witty, emotional, and empowering contemporary romance

Release Date: December 2015
Author: Lindy Zart
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Adult Fiction
Reviewed by: Kelli

🌟 Overview

Within This Frame by Lindy Zart is a captivating contemporary novel that blends emotional growth, second chances, and witty banter in a way only Zart can. With deeply relatable characters and an honest look at body image and forgiveness, this heartfelt story goes beyond a simple romance—it’s about reclaiming self-worth and facing the past.

📝 Plot Summary (No Spoilers)

Maggie Smiley used to shine on the screen as a child star. Fast-forward to adulthood, and her life looks very different—she’s withdrawn, carrying emotional and physical weight, and haunted by an invitation to a wedding that promises more pain than joy.

Desperate to reclaim control, Maggie agrees to work with a personal trainer. What she doesn’t expect is who shows up: Lance Denton—her former co-star, once a bad boy with a reckless past and a heartbreaker reputation. Lance carries his own guilt, especially about how he treated Maggie years ago.

As Lance helps Maggie work toward physical health, both are forced to confront unresolved emotions, buried secrets, and the possibility of redemption. The result is a beautifully messy journey filled with sarcasm, sparks, and sweet vulnerability.

💬 Character Dynamics

Maggie Smiley is a standout protagonist: stubborn, sarcastic, and layered with raw honesty. Her journey toward confidence is inspiring and relatable. Lance, on the other hand, brings a refreshing mix of charm and remorse. His patience and persistence are a perfect match to Maggie’s resistance.

Their chemistry is electric—not because of steamy scenes, but through genuine dialogue and personal growth. Their banter is sharp, their tension real, and their shared past makes every interaction compelling.

✅ What Works

• Authentic character development: Maggie’s inner transformation is just as important as her physical one.

• Smart humor & emotional depth: The writing is witty without being superficial, and touching without being overly dramatic.

• Relatable themes: Body image, second chances, forgiveness, and rediscovering self-worth.

• Satisfying resolution: The ending ties up the story in a feel-good way that feels earned and honest.

⚠️ What to Expect

While a few plot points might be predictable for seasoned romance readers, the charm of the characters and the emotional stakes make up for it. The heart of this story is the healing—not just romantic, but personal.

⭐ Final Verdict

Rating: 4.5/5 stars

If you’re looking for a romance that doesn’t rely on clichés and offers substance along with sass, Within This Frame is a must-read. Lindy Zart masterfully blends humor, heartache, and healing in this uplifting tale of rediscovery.

Whether you’re a fan of body-positive fiction or just love a redemption arc with smart dialogue, this one deserves a place on your TBR list.