Things I Can't Forget (Hundred Oaks, #3)

by Miranda Kenneally

[Suz @ Bookish Revelations]

Things I Can't Forget is one of those young adult romance novels, that deals with heavy issues that every girl faces in such a realistic and relatable way. Kennally does a wonderful job at bringing these issues to light, in such a way that readers are able to connect with the characters and the stories they have to tell. This novel, is a little bit different from her prior two novels. There are deeper issues and new territory to explore, but she does it in such a way that readers won't want to put this novel down until the last page has been turned.

It's easy to understand her characters, because Kennally writes them in such a way that you can get inside their head and see their situation from their perspective. It makes the characters more likable and enjoyable to read about. Kate has a multitude of tough choices to make throughout this book and has to live with the secret that she keeps, from the choices she made regarding her best friend. She's the type of girl who is strong, steady, and always good. So, when things happen, and life seems like it's getting a bit too chaotic for her - she figures out just exactly what she's made of as she begins to shuffle some things around in her life. One of the best elements of the book, is that through her writing and the eyes of Kate, Kennally shows readers that life isn't always as black and white as they think it might be.

Intensely gripping and emotional, Things I Can't Forget, will have leave readers churning. It has every element that a mature contemporary young adult novel should have, plus a few surprises along the way. The friendship and romance aspect, was brilliantly written and beautifully fleshed out. This is a novel that will dare readers to step outside of their comfort zone, much in the same way that Kate had to, and discover things about themselves they may not have discovered before. It's definitely a do not miss!