True (True Believers, #1)

by Erin Mccarthy

[Angie]

I received an ARC through NetGalley.

I absolutely adore Erin McCarthy’s adult Chick Lit novels, so I knew I had to read her new New Adult title, True. I’m happy to report that I loved it even more! True follows pre-med student Rory who, to the shock of her roommates, is still a virgin at the age of 20! They take it upon themselves to get Rory laid and hopefully bring her out of her shell a bit. Of course, their idea doesn’t go according to plan, but I’m super glad that it didn’t blow up into a huge dramafest. This is in thanks to Rory’s very logical, level-headed, and mellow personality. She was a very nice change from the normal NA heroines.

I actually really enjoyed Rory. She may come across as stiff and uninviting to other readers, but I 100% get her. She reminds me a lot of myself. She’s great at math and science, but struggles with literature, which is actually partly how she bonds with Tyler. They exchange tutoring services. Rory also has pretty weak people skills, and has trouble making friends, let alone meeting a boyfriend. I totally identify with this. People are confusing and full of drama! Anyway, I loved that Rory never turned anything into a huge deal. She took everything in stride, even when she learned that Tyler was paid to take her virginity (not a spoiler, this is in the description). She thinks everything through logically instead of jumping to conclusions. This made it easy for me to root for her and hope she gets her man!

There were only two stand out problems that I had with True. One being more frustrating than the other. That one would be the opening chapter. Rory is sexually assaulted after kissing this guy she’s had her eye on. Of course, it’s Tyler who comes to her defense and drives her home. After this initial scene, it’s never brought up again in any significant capacity. Her assault is a plot device to kick start the romance, and that just made me uncomfortable. Tyler could have offered her a ride because it was getting late, or because her original ride was too drunk, or any number of reasons. She didn’t need to be nearly forced to give a blow job then kicked by that asshole! My second issue is less serious, but has to do with the ending. At about 80% in I was excited that True was turning out different in that there was no overly dramatic and unnecessary break up that would be rescinded in a handful of chapters. I hoped too soon.

True is one New Adult novel that you won’t want to miss out on. It’s funny, sexy, smart, and has a totally relatable heroine. It’s not without it’s faults, but overall they’re pretty minor. I just wish the ending had been a little less cliche and that Tyler didn’t smoke! I do not find smoking sexy, and I had an “ew moment” when he and Rory start kissing right after he finished a cigarette! No thanks! However, Erin McCarthy has cemented her place on my list of favorite authors.

Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.