I read this book in one day. In fact, I kept reading chapters on my phone every chance I got, because it was so good. So let us discuss!
The Things I Loved:
- Such a realistic portrayal of how different people anticipate the college situation. So many books present characters who all just want college to come ASAP, there's no worry about it, it's all positive. But hi, that isn't life. I was freaking terrified about college. So it's nice to see that portrayed so realistically in a main character.
- Also a realistic portrayal of anxiety. I could absolutely relate to some of Gabby's anxieties, and even those that I couldn't relate to seemed very well portrayed.
- Sex positive. I... don't think this requires an explanation? But also, Gabby is bisexual and sex is handled positively across the board.
- Family is a big focus. Gabby's family especially was so awesome. And the great thing is, her family's closeness wasn't something to be made fun of; Ryan liked their closeness too and wanted to be a part of it.
- I shipped the thing so damn much. I just adore the friends-to-lovers trope, okay? And they were just so damn cute together. As friends, certainly, and I wanted it to be more too.
- The timeline jumping format really worked for me. This probably isn't true for everyone, but I loved that the story jumped around from time to time while still feeling very cohesive to me. Not all books can or should pull this off, but it really worked for this book.
- I just flat out loved the story. The characters were relatable, I enjoyed seeing the important, stand out moments of their high school lives, and I loved reading with the knowledge that soon they'd be moving on to their next life adventures.
The only downside:
- I wanted a little more from the ending. I'm starting to think that's just how the author rolls, but it's still difficult for me as a reader.
Bottom Line: I loved the concept of looking back on high school highs and lows, and I adored the characters' stories, both as their own people and their friendship together.
*Copy provided for review