How to Survive a Modern-Day Fairy Tale

There were several themes in the novel that I felt a connection to, almost too close in the case of Lola struggling with Alzheimer's, balancing “tang na loob” (debt of gratitude in the filipino culture) while navigating life as a young adult, all the while standing stubbornly against stereotypical and family expectations (ex: chose a medical profession, date respectable and marry early, find a wealthy/established match).
I enjoyed meeting the family and identifying with traditions, dishes, family dynamics and liked the 2 MCs with their down to earth personalities. Which i had my own Todd to talk sense into me when needed. lol.
Personally I found it interesting to see Claires perspective on the Tech world from an outsiders perspective as I myself am apart of that industry. I can see how intimidating that could be to an outsider. But what really got me, and not in a good way, was the theme that Claire would leave a relationship over fear and not communicate with him to forge a path forward together then to ultimately chase after him like a stalker (wth) and put her entrepreneurial passion aside to be the dutiful Mrs?!
I was hoping they would find a way to have home bases on both coasts where she could still fulfill orders or maybe did online decorating workshops since Nate has the resources. There were so many possibilities that Claire could still end up having her own identity/life/career and Nate. The necessity of communication was a theme that reoccured in the novel, from Nates side (both professionally and romantically) but frustratingly, Claire didn't seem to catch on and allowed her anxiety to get the best of her.
I felt if the novel ended in a whirlwind, with a rushed summation. Like we're running outta air time gotta wrap it up quick! Overall I would have given more stars if the story ended on a more positive note, in that women can have both; love and success, simultaneously. Now that would be a HEA I'd gladly give 5 stars for.