A review by justacatandabook
A Lot Like Adiós by Alexis Daria

emotional funny hopeful lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

Gabe and Michelle were best friends as kids. They briefly become more than friends, but Gabe broke Michelle's heart by leaving for college and breaking all contact. They haven't seen each in other years, but when Gabe's business partner contacts Michelle to help with with a marketing project for their gym, she and Gabe reunite. They immediately realize how much they care for each other... but it's complicated. 

This second chance romance started off a bit slow and repetitive as it revolved around only Gabe and Michelle working, fighting, and then a steamy scene. However, things eventually picked up a bit and offered more character development and depth. The two of them quickly grew on me--I liked both of their characters and their loud, loving families (the Latinx representation is wonderful!). The book deftly covers the topics of family, work, and finding yourself--both Gabe and Michelle are trying to grow as people, even if they are terrible at relationships! 

ADIOS plays with romance tropes (only one bed!) and uses fan fiction (Gabe and Michelle wrote one as kids) to its advantage. It all makes for a really fun and cute story. I didn't read the first book in this series (they stand alone just fine), but I plan to now. 

Also, this was my second book of my 2023 random # generator shelves challenge, where I've numbered my bookshelves (in a spreadsheet) and used a random google number generator to pick the shelf and then the book!