maddiem9's review against another edition
4.0
would it kill taylor jenkins reid to write something happy for once
vanessagrausam's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
isabelroper's review against another edition
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
abbeyroad1410's review against another edition
hopeful
inspiring
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.25
This book made me experience so many emotions of frustration and sadness and joy and bitter sweetness that there is no way I can't give it five stars. While I don't think I enjoyed this book to the level of Malibu Rising, Taylor Jenkins Reid knows how to write a novel of self-discovery and love.
One of the things I liked most about this novel was the growth in the relationship between Emma and Marie. The growing pains in high school felt quite authentic, with Emma experiencing bitterness towards Marie for being the golden child. Seeing her redefine Marie in her life and grow that relationship was so beautiful.
I almost cried in many of the scenes between Jesse and Emma. It's weird because I didn't even really like Jesse, especially because Sam knows Emma so well. However, Taylor Jenkins Reid does a good job of making the audience empathize with his situation and experiences, and she makes him a good enough person that it feels odd to actively root against him.
The pacing of this novel is very good. I love that it is broken up into distinct parts which tell you what you are going to read about. I love that there is kind of a built in explanation for why some sections feel quite short, even if it isn't explicitly stated.
Overall, this book feels powerful, and I know that I will keep thinking about it over time because of it's unique plot and heartfelt message.
One of the things I liked most about this novel was the growth in the relationship between Emma and Marie. The growing pains in high school felt quite authentic, with Emma experiencing bitterness towards Marie for being the golden child. Seeing her redefine Marie in her life and grow that relationship was so beautiful.
I almost cried in many of the scenes between Jesse and Emma. It's weird because I didn't even really like Jesse, especially because Sam knows Emma so well. However, Taylor Jenkins Reid does a good job of making the audience empathize with his situation and experiences, and she makes him a good enough person that it feels odd to actively root against him.
The pacing of this novel is very good. I love that it is broken up into distinct parts which tell you what you are going to read about. I love that there is kind of a built in explanation for why some sections feel quite short, even if it isn't explicitly stated.
Overall, this book feels powerful, and I know that I will keep thinking about it over time because of it's unique plot and heartfelt message.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Injury/Injury detail
rlau's review against another edition
2.0
do you ever pick up a book and then realize you read it before and forgot? well. this happened to me. just now. so 2 stars bc unmemorable.
aliencatl0rd's review against another edition
4.0
Wow, one of the rare books to melt my frozen heart! This was great and never over the top. Didn't glamorize partners or relationships. Loved the character development with herself, her family, and her partners. Felt possible to be real.