A review by rachelshubin
You, With a View by Jessica Joyce

adventurous emotional funny hopeful inspiring reflective medium-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? It's complicated

5.0

I LOVED THIS BOOK SO MUCH! For sure going to be in my top reads of 2023 and I think one of the books to beat for my fave of the year. 

Anyone who has dealt with the loss of a loved one (specifically a grandparent) will relate to this story. Grandparents are like magic and as you lose them, part of that childhood magic dies with them. That’s no lie for our FMC Noelle, who recently lost her grandma. The discourse of grief through this novel is super poignant and well done, and really emphasizes how it can hit you at any time and in little or big ways. 

I loved the chemistry and build up of Theo and Noelle’s story. I wish we had gotten to see or hear a bit about their competitive streak in high school, but I enjoyed their 28 year old vibes. 

I’m also really pleased with how TikTok is a focal point but not overdone or corny in any way. It’s the equivalent of any book in the last few years that mentioned Twitter or Instagram. 

Noelle’s family, specifically Thomas, are great. All the side characters of her family are well written. And then there is Paul, which what can I say? He’s the best! I loved how he slowly unraveled his and Kathleen’s story to both Noelle and Theo. 

Jessica Joyce is an amazing and vivid writer. The visuals of this book were so easy to picture and it felt like watching a movie as I was reading it. I love a good road trip book. Perfect for fans of Amy & Roger’s Epic Detour by Morgan Matson. I can’t wait to read another book by Joyce. 

What you get in You, With A View:

📱 TikTok that went viral
🎾 High school rivals
📝 Love letters
🚗 Road trip
😂Many LOL worthy moments
📸 Photography talk
🧪 Serious chemistry
🌶️ Open door spicy scenes (3/5)

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