Do... do you see those comps? "'Saved!' meets To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before"? Like seriously how was I not going to pick this up, those are straight up two of my favorite things in this world. But then I was scared because come on, could this really live up to two of my favorite things in this world? Why, yes, yes it freaking can, because it did.
What I Loved:
- • The discussion/commentary on religion was handled really well. So, CeCe is pretty solidly anti-religion at the start of the book. Obviously, she's upset that her crappy boyfriend dumped her, citing religion as his reason. Add to it that religion has never been an important part of her life, and she's thinking pretty poorly of Christians as a whole. But here's the main thing: the author doesn't vilify religion or Christianity. Does Ethan, the ex-boyfriend, suck? You bet. And yes, he happens to be Christian. But the author introduces so many wonderful examples of Christian people that it makes CeCe think twice about her views, which is a pretty great message.
Likewise, she doesn't shy away from some of the more dangerous messages that religions (and often Christianity) can spread, especially to young women. Because shaming women for existing is simply not okay. In one example, CeCe is shamed for not wearing a "proper" swimsuit, because god forbid she owns a stomach. Ethan feels perfectly justified in painting CeCe as some kind of temptress, when clearly they were both consenting participants. He is welcomed back as "reformed", while CeCe basically has a scarlet letter painted on her.
Essentially, through CeCe's journey, the author showcased that there are fabulous faith-driven people, while still acknowledging that there is work to be done in many religious organizations, especially in terms of women and LGBT+ communities. - • Frankly, it's funny as hell. The whole book was just beyond compulsively readable because it was just so damn charming. CeCe cracked me up, her best friend Paul cracked me up, and some of the instances they found themselves in were hilarious. It's heartwarming as well, but the humor was just done so well that it brought the characters to life.
- • Sex positivity FTW! Obviously it's clear that sex is going to play a role in this story based on the synopsis, but I think the author handled it so, so well. She addressed consent and protection, as well as simply making it clear that it's okay to ask about stuff. That it's cool to have experience and it's equally cool to not have experience; fine to be ready and fine to not be. There was no shame in any choice whatsoever, as long as the character(s) in question was comfortable. It was great that the author was able to shine such a positive light on the topic while still making clear that it's not for everyone at every time.
- • Such a focus on friendships! One of the highlights that I wasn't expecting was CeCe's blossoming friendships with the other girls in her cabin. They all came from such different backgrounds, and yet they still came together and bonded. It's absolutely a highlight of the book, as proof that one can find their people in the least expected of places.
- • Romance and relationship talk abound! Look would this even be a book about a summer camp if there was no love drama? Well, there was and it was really fun. Some people I shipped together, a lot. I will keep it vague but. I was rooting for certain people from the start. And so many of the girls were discovering their own needs and desires from relationships, and it was just a really refreshing perspective.
Bottom Line: This one lived up to my expectations and then some. It's fun, it's witty, it's heartwarming, and I flat out couldn't put it down. You need this book in your life.