Today, since this is a "let's flail" review, we're going to just discuss the reasons I loved this, because when you're flailing, there are probably not any negatives, right? Right. So, here are some of the reasons that if you haven't already obtained this book (and why haven't you?) you really, really should.
- The characters are precious and adorable and believably quirky. Okay, maybe I should say most of the characters, because I don't want to accidentally lump Beck's mom in with anyone precious. But let's talk about Beck, while we're at it: He is such a broken human, but also really good at his core, even though he doesn't really believe it. The only thing that I loved more than his adorable feels for August was his fierce protectiveness for his sister Joey. August, in her own right, is delightful. And she seems to bring out the best in people, which frankly is refreshing. Oh, and even though they're kind of minor characters, her family is fabulous and maybe we have a spinoff about them or something, eh?
- Beck's plight was eerily relatable. I mean, okay, perhaps not to the extent, but certainly the context? Beck and I can't have been the only ones who felt a ton of parental pressure to do certain things in certain ways. My dad was so tough on us, and a lot of times I felt like he maybe was trying to live vicariously- exactly as Beck's mom is. Thankfully, I didn't face abuse like Beck, but of course there are kids who do. Still, I related to him so much- when you wonder how much of your life is just living someone else's plans.
And I did worry about not being able to relate to Beck because of music. Music scares me sometimes because I don't understand it? But it's fine- it's written in a way that you don't have to have a masters degree in piano to understand exactly what is happening. - The writing, as you'd expect, is fabulous. We know Cait can write, yes? If you didn't before, trust me, you will after you read this. I highlighted so many passages on my Kindle that the whole damn thing was practically turning colors. So many witty lines, so many thoughtful and emotive parts. If you appreciate quality writing, you're in the right place.
- Let's talk about the feels! Ohhh my emotions! I admit that I foolishly didn't realize that this book would be so emotionally powerful, but it was. I cried, and a book hasn't made me cry in a long time (because I might be turning into some kind of cyborg, idk?), but it wasn't all emotionally heavy. I laughed, and I felt a ton of empathy for Beck, and I was pissed as hell at his damn mom. See, emotions galore!
- I actually lost track of time while reading and that seriously does not ever happen. Like I looked up at the Kindle and somehow I'd gotten to 85% and two hours had passed and oops? It really drew me in immediately, and I was apparently very invested in finding out what became of these characters, so there you have it.
- There's cake. Because this is a Cait book, I feel like I'd be disappointed if there wasn't cake? But there is so you don't need to worry.
Bottom Line: It is as awesome as you think it will be. That's all you need to know.