Contemporary

One Way Or Another // Book Review

- Bunny 1 Comment

Author: Kara McDowell
Published: 2020
Genre: YA/Contemporary/Holiday
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Synopsis
Sliding Doors meets To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before in a sweet, smart holiday romance about a girl who decides to stop letting her anxiety stand in the way of true love.

I saw this book in stores last holiday season, and the cover intrigued me. I went into the book completely blind, since all I knew was that it is a YA contemporary that’s set at Christmas time. But, this book threw me for a loop. We jump straight into the plot from the get go, and learn all about the main character, Paige. She is an extreme worrier, who is paranoid to make a decision. She overthinks every choice, and gets anxiety when thinking about the effects her choices can have on her life.

In the book, we follow Paige as she spend Christmas with her best friend, and long time crush, Fitz. However, we also follow her to New York where she spends the holiday with her mom. The book showcases alternating time lines where the reader gets to see the outcome of both choices. At first, I was completely confused, because she was on a plane to New York. Then suddenly, Fitz was picking her up so she could spend Christmas at his family cabin.

As the book went on, I got use to the dual storylines. It was a cool concept, and with such an indecisive main character, I understood why the author chose to go this route. Still, I didn’t feel like the whole dual timeline works in a book. I have seen movies with this type of plot, and prefer it in films and shows rather than books. Yet, even in live-action, the lines between both paths can become blurry.

This was supposed to be a friends-to-lovers story, which I think got lost along the way. At one point, I was rooting for her to end up with another potential love interest. Paige was way too invested in Fitz, which was slightly annoying. Her crush wasn’t subtle or cute, but obsessive and desperate. She was pining so hard for her best friend, who was a serial dater. We do learn a lot about Fitz and the reason behind his relationship habits, but by then, I already wasn’t a fan of his character.

Something that the author did remarkably well was the mental health representation. Like Paige, I suffer from mental health disorders, anxiety being one of them. I completely understood her thoughts and worries in a way that only someone who also feels that way can. She thought that her brain was broken, and was scared that her illness was a burden to those around her.

“Rabbit holes are my specialty. I live and breathe in them.”

There are many times when I have felt the exact same way. It took me a long time to understand that my brain isn’t broken, but it does work differently than others. If anything, this is a self love story about coming to terms with your mental health struggles, and realizing you don’t have to let them control your life.

As for the two time lines, I’m not sure which one I enjoyed more, but I did find the ending thought provoking. It begs the question that all things will ultimately turn out the way they’re supposed to, no matter the path to you chose. It’s an interesting concept. One really has to wonder if fate does play a big part in our lives and decisions.

As a whole, the characters and plot weren’t my favorite, but I wouldn’t categorize the book as a disappointment. Have you read this book? Do you like alternating timeline plots? If you are a fan of reviews, give this post a like and a share. And make sure to follow the blog for all my post notifications.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

As If On Cue // Book Review

- Bunny 1 Comment

Author: Marisa Kanter
Published: 2021
Genre: YA/Contemporary
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Synopsis
Lifelong rivals Natalie and Reid have never been on the same team. So when their school’s art budget faces cutbacks, of course Natalie finds herself up against her nemesis once more. She’s fighting to direct the school’s first ever student-written play, but for her small production to get funding, the school’s award-winning band will have to lose it. Reid’s band. And he’s got no intention of letting the show go on. But when their rivalry turns into an all-out prank war that goes too far, Natalie and Reid have to face the music, resulting in the worst compromise: writing and directing a musical. Together. At least if they deliver a sold-out show, the school board will reconsider next year’s band and theater budget. Everyone could win.

From the synopsis, you get the sense that this is going to be a cute hate-to-love contemporary. However, the book didn’t read like one, which was slightly disappointing. Natalie and Reid’s feud started when they were in middle school, over their equal love of the clarinet. Natalie eventually found a love for theater and writing, leaving music to Reid and losing the bond she shared with her dad.

The main protagonist, Natalie, is very flawed. I didn’t enjoy how her imperfections are pointed out throughout the story, by other people close to her. She did need to hear some of these comments, but people, especially her friends, shouldn’t have been so blunt. This being said, I am unsure if we were supposed to sympathize with Natalie and find her relatable. Or, if she was intended to be an unlikable character. Because, I’m still on the fence about my opinion of her. As for Reid, her love interest, he was very pleasant to read about. His personality was relatable, and he didn’t come off as obnoxious. He knew that he was talented, but didn’t brag about it. His parents didn’t support his dreams, so he tried his hardest to prove that he was talented enough to make music as a career.

When we first meet Natalie and Reid, their interaction is rather snarky, but I found Reid to be fairly civil. It was Natalie that turned everything into a competition, and Reid was just along for the ride. This could be due to the fact that Natalie felt that Reid had replaced her in her fathers eyes. But this wasn’t Reid’s fault; she had misplaced anger. Natalie created a lot of drama and problems for herself. She never asked anyone before jumping to conclusions, and was seriously over-dramatic. Reid was trying to compromise, but she dismissed all his suggestion.

“I will never be enough for you.”

Nevertheless, I found myself empathizing with her at times. Despite all the drama, her feelings were valid. She was basically screaming out for her dad’s affection and getting shrugged off everytime. By the end of the book, I still didn’t see much growth in their relationship. Still, the message of following your dreams was a highlight in the story. A person can have a career they enjoy and still make a decent living. You might struggle, but everyone has struggles, even if they aren’t career related.

One odd plot point was the play theme, a ‘Frozen’ retelling. The author’s idea for a play – based off the animated film- that had a more important message was cute. But ‘Frozen’ just feels a little more middle school to me. Although, I am probably biased, since I am not a big ‘Frozen’ fan. I did want to mention that there is some Jewish representation in the book, but it doesn’t play a major role in the story. In short, the book didn’t feel like a true enemies-to-lovers, but more of a message about following your passion, and letting go of preconceived opinions of someone. If you are looking for a middle-of-the-road young adult contemporary, then give this one a read.

If you enjoyed this review, give the post a like and a share. I have many reviews up on the blog, and more to come, so follow the blog to get notified whenever I post.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Dash & Lily’s Book of Dares (Dash & Lily, #1) // Book Review

- Bunny 7 Comments

Author: Rachel Cohn, David Levithan
Published: 2010
Genre: YA/Contemporary/Holiday
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Synopsis
Lily has left a red notebook full of challenges on a favorite bookstore shelf, waiting for just the right guy to come along and accept its dares. But is Dash that right guy? Or are Dash and Lily only destined to trade dares, dreams, and desires in the notebook they pass back and forth at locations across New York? Could their in-person selves possibly connect as well as their notebook versions? Or will they be a comic mismatch of disastrous proportions?

The book was exactly how I anticipated it to be, yet there were some twists and turns that I didn’t see coming. In the book, we follow Lily, who is an adorably awkward teenage girl having the worst Christmas of her life. Her family have all made other Christmas plans, leaving her with her older brother who is more focused on his holiday romance than spending time with his kid sister. Dash on the other-hand isn’t a fan of all the holidays opting to spend Christmas alone. These two very different teens meet by fate, kind of, and embark on the cutest love-story.

This is a dual perspective story where we get to hear from Dash and Lily. And, I am happy to say that I enjoyed both sides of the story equally. Lily is a fun character to follow, because even though she isn’t having the merriest Christmas, she is determined to stay joyful. She is shy and socially awkward, which I found to be very relatable. Dash dared her to challenge herself and step out of her comfort zone. And, to not be so afraid to be seen by the world. I know that was swooning hard over Dash, so there is no question to why Lily fell for him.

Dash reminded me so much of Holden Caulfield. He is cynical, moody, and a bit of a know-it-all. He doesn’t let anyone see his soft side, and is scared to let anyone get too close. Dash is lonely and wants to find ‘his person’ but isn’t sure there’s someone out there for him. Lily changed his outlook on a lot of things, including the holidays. I think he realized that maybe Christmas isn’t so bad if you have someone to spend it with.

It was fun watching the story unfold, and I kept wondering what the next dare would be. For a large portion of the book, they only converse through a red notebook. There is something sweet about falling for someone by their words, not their looks. Which just so happens to be how I fell in love with my husband. Still, I couldn’t wait until they finally met in person.

“I want to believe there is a somebody out there just for me. I want to believe that I exist to be there for that somebody.”

The story does a good job of showcasing how we all place people on pedestals. This is especially true when we only have a mental image of someone. Dash and Lily both got to know one another, but they still had unrealistic expectations. No one will ever be exactly how you envisioned them, but that’s okay. The story demonstrated that we can, and should, overcome our preconceived notion of somebody, and to get to know the real them.

The story had some flaws, as most do. One being that Lily was very confusing at times. She wanted Dash, but didn’t mind pursuing someone that she didn’t even like. I understand that Dash was just the guy in the notebook, but I would think that all his attempts to break her out of her shell would make her more brave. I want her to go get the guy, and not settle.

Dash annoyed me at times, because he could be really stuck-up. Without spoiling anything, there was a scene close to the end of the book where Lily messed up big. Dash was unforgiving, and it made me slightly annoyed, considering they hadn’t even met at that point. Cut the girl some slack.

As for the ending, I think it was simple, and wrapped everything up with a nice bow. The story as a whole was exciting, cute, and it took place in New York City! Spending the holidays in The Big Apple, even through a book, is fabulous. If you have read the book, go ahead and leave your rating in the comments. Also, follow the blog – all the cool kids are doing it!

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Music Meets Books // Holiday Edition

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Hi Friends,
I am a big fan of recommendations posts and videos. In the past, I have done a few but I thought that this one was pretty creative. I have seen people do similar recommendations, but on this list I have some songs and books that people never seem to recommend.


This book comes to mind everytime I hear this original winter song. Honestly, I don’t think that this holiday contemporary gets enough love. But I must admit that it has been a few years since I picked this book up and cannot remember many details about it. I do know that this is a YA romance set on a Christmas tree farm. The book is less about the holidays but redemption, love and past mistakes.


This song is about asking Santa to bring you Christmas love. This book happens to be about a girl wanting one thing for Christmas, her crush. Holiday romances can be a hit or miss, but I swooned over this enemies-to-lovers story. It is about seeing past your negative opinions of someone, because they might just be the someone for you. This book has romance, the holidays and Secret Santa. So you know it is going to be a messy and cute story.


This song can be a bit hard to understand, but the lyrics remind me a lot of Dash and Lily. In the song, it is about how everything changed after meeting your person. And, without them Christmas just isn’t the same. In the book, two teenagers meet at the perfect time during the holidays. Both their Christmases aren’t going so well, but what they come to realize is that all they needed for Christmas was each other. This book was a whirled wind romance that I finished in one day. I think all contemporary readers should go on this holiday journey with Dash and Lily.

Do you agree with my book-to-holiday song recommendations? Do you have any recommendations of your own? Leave them in the comments below, so I and others can get more book recommendations.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

To Be Read // December 2021

- Bunny 2 Comments

Hi Friends,
This is going to be my last tbr of 2021! I cannot believe that the year is finally coming to a close, and I am excited to see what 2022 has in store. However, we still have to get through December. I don’t have massive reading plans since December is a pretty crazy month. I love reading, but when December hits I am all about Bookmas, Vlogmas, Holiday movies and Christmas hauls. So reading might be a low priority this month. Still, I do have a few books that I would like to read before the end of the year.

“Perfect for fans of The Last Magician and Serpent & Dove, this heart-stopping debut is an imaginative Romeo and Juliet retelling set in 1920s Shanghai, with rival gangs and a monster in the depths of the Huangpu River.”
I have heard nothing but good things about this duology. I need to read, at least, the first book before 2022.

“What’s better than one deliciously cozy, swoon-worthy holiday story? Four of them, from some of today’s bestselling authors.”
I have been reading this all year, so it is about time I finish it. Truthfully, I am kind of embarrassed it has taken me this long to read.

“Sophie Gonzales and Cale Dietrich’s “If This Gets Out is an absolute showstopper! Equal parts edgy and adorable, this bright, joyful book has everything I look for in a queer YA romance.” —Phil Stamper, bestselling author of The Gravity of Us
I want to read a fluffy contemporary! This book sounds so cute, and I hope it will give me all the YA romance feels that I live for.

“Over the course of one chaotic night stranded at the Denver airport, Ryn confronts her shattered past thanks to the charm of romance, the uniqueness of strangers, and the magic of ordinary places in this stunning novel from the author of Boys of Summer.”
This is going to be a reread for me, but I cannot remember a lot of the story. I have been wanting to give myself a refresher read of it for a while now, so I hope that I can get to it.

There you have it, all the books that are on my December tbr. Tell me what you will be reading in the comments. Don’t forget to follow the blog to get notified when a new post goes up.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Underrated Holiday Books // On My TBR

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Hi Friends,
If couldn’t tell, I am a seasonal reader. This means that the books I read fit well with the current season we’re in. Thus, in the winter time I an all about holiday books. I am in luck, since most holiday themed books are also contemporaries (which you probably know is my favorite genre). However, there are some holiday books that I’ve discovered that aren’t talked about much. In this post, I wanted to share some of these underrated (in my opinion, anyway) holiday books.

‘I’m Dreaming of a Wyatt Christmas’ by Tiffany Schmidt
‘Ballet and babysitting bring two teens together in this very merry holiday rom-com from the author of the acclaimed Bookish Boyfriends series. This is a YA contemporary that was released in October 2021. I don’t know about you, but this book sounds like a very cute holiday hate-to-love story. There hasn’t been many books featuring male dancers, so this is a nice change from the typical bad-boy or jock characters. I am excited to see how this story plays out.

 

‘Blame It on the Mistletoe’ by Beth Garrod
‘Tweet Cute’ meets the movie ‘The Holiday’ in this funny holiday rom-com where two very different girls swap lives for a Christmas adventure.’ I mentioned ‘The Holiday Swap’ in my November TBR, which is a book I have been greatly anticipating. This book has a similar plot, except that it is a young adult story, and the two character aren’t look-a-likes. I have mentioned that swap plots are some of my favorites, so I cannot wait to read this different spin on it. Also, I have seen and loved The Holiday, and I have been dying to read ‘Tweet Cute’.

‘All I Want for Christmas’ by Wendy Loggia‘This sweet and magical romance about a girl who has just one wish – someone to kiss under the mistletoe – is the perfect holiday escape!’
This is a 2020 book release that nobody has read. Well, at least it seems that way. Let me reiterate one more time how much of a sucker I am for YA contemporaries. When I think about this book, ‘My Only Wish’ by Brittney Spears pops into my head. I predict that I am going to enjoy this story, and I am not upset about it.

There are a ton more underrated and unheard of winter/holiday books that I didn’t mention here. So if you would like me to do a part two to this post, let me know in the comments! And before you leave, give this post a like, and follow the blog for all things bookish.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Little Women // Book Review

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Title: Little Women
Author: Louisa May Alcott
Published: 1869
Genre: Classic/Contemporary
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Synopsis
Generations of readers young and old, male and female, have fallen in love with the March sisters of Louisa May Alcott’s most popular and enduring novel, Little Women. Here are talented tomboy and author-to-be Jo, tragically frail Beth, beautiful Meg, and romantic, spoiled Amy, united in their devotion to each other and their struggles to survive in New England during the Civil War.
Credit: GoodReads

Being a long-time fan of the movie adaptations, I knew that I was eventually going to have to pick this book up. The story is very iconic and timeless. At a young age, my mom would compare me to Jo. At 15 years-old, I thought that this was the highest of compliments.

Each sister (Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy) had their own stories, but they were all connected. They learned to be selfless, grow-up and above all less that family comes first. Jo March is the most notable character from the book. Probably because her arc is the main focus of the story. Also, she was an offbeat girl of that time, which was refreshing. I found Jo to be a little too stubborn for my liking, but I did notice some similarities between me and her.

Jo was outspoken, strong and not afraid to be herself. Throughout the book she mentioned how marriage, class or money wasn’t her goal. She wanted to be known for her talents instead of her status in society. Meg was the oldest of the sisters, and at first wanted nothing more than to fit in. I enjoyed her journey most of all. She chose love and a family over a career, which isn’t always a bad thing. I liked that she married for love, and though she wanted expensive things, never regretted the life she picked. Out of all the sister, I found myself relating most to Meg.

Beth didn’t have a big plot in the book, but she was the glue that tied the sisters together. She was kind, shy and had a great love of music. In the book, she probably went through the most physically, and it was painful to see how her story ended. She never complained about the cards she was dealt, and wanted what was best for her family. This is something we both have in common.

Amy, like many, was my least favorite sister. I do understand that the author was trying to portray her as immature and selfish, since she was the youngest March girl. It was evident that her character development was supposed to be the most drastic.

In some ways, I get Amy’s need to marry rich and move up in society. Her desires weren’t purely for herself, but for her family. She wanted to be able to provide for the ones she loved, even if it meant marrying someone just for money. Although, I would never do that, I can see her point of view.

As for the boys, Meg and Brooke’s relationship was very wholesome and real. They started as friends and grew into something more. What can I say I’m a hopeless romantic. On the flip-side, Laurie’s obsession with Jo was a tab much. I hated that he acted poorly when she refused his proposal. His relationship with Amy started as a fallback for not getting Jo, which left a sour taste in my mouth. Does he even really love her?

“I hate ordinary people!”

For me, Jo and the Professor’s relationship was my favorite. Some people might think that Jo was better off single. Because not all women need a man to be complete. Although, I agree, it was heartwarming to see Jo fall in love. Throughout the book, she was so against marriage and being seen as somebody’s wife. It showed that you can achieve your goals, and find love too. Once you find your person, everything changes.

After reading the book, I found that I could relate to each March sister in one way, or another. We are all Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy in are own way. I will probably always ship Jo and Laurie even though his fixation was a little much.

The one final thing I learned from my reading experience is that classics aren’t for me. Yes, my favorite book is a classic, but I don’t generally enjoy classic books. I’ll continue to watch all ‘Little Women’ adaptations that are released. And, probably read a few more classics in my lifetime. But they aren’t my first reading priority.

Is Little Women one of your favorite books? Do you enjoy reading classics? Give my blog a follow, like and share this post.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

The Cozy Fall // Book Tag

- Bunny 1 Comment

Hi Friends,
I knew that I had to do a fall book tag to celebrate the change in seasons. Autumn is one of my favorite times of year for many reasons.The cooler weather, movies and food. This tag was originally created by The Book Belle on Youtube and combines fall and books.

1) What book always reminds you of fall/autumn?
For years, Little Women by Louisa May Alcott has made me think of fall. The story takes place throughout all the seasons. But I will forever think of this story as a great fall read.

2) What is your favorite autumnal book cover?
The Fall Changes by Marie McGrath has a simple cover that sets the tone for a cozy fall contemporary. Truth be told, I haven’t read the book, but it is on my never-ending tbr.

3) What is your favorite autumnal drink to read with?
I am a sucker for fall Starbucks drinks. Their Salted Carmel Mocha is one of my favorite autumn drinks. Additionally, I fancy a hot cup of coffee with cinnamon creamer.

4) Do you prefer to read late at night or early in the morning?
Is anytime an acceptable answer to this question? I read mostly throughout the afternoon. Sometimes I will read during breakfast, or stay up late to finish a book. I am pretty much always reading.

5) Halloween is coming! What is your favorite spooky read?
I haven’t read many thrillers or horror books. My answer is probably pretty lame, but it is Coraline by Neil Gaiman. It is a spooky children’s book, which isn’t a huge genre.

6) What is the ultimate comfort read for you?
I have to go with one of my favorite series, To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before by Jenny Han. The book starts in fall as school is starting back up. There is baking, family relationships and fake dating. I need to do a reread of this series, because it is one of my all-time favorite contemporaries.

7) What is your favorite autumnal reading snack?
I would say slice of gingerbread, since my mom only makes it in the fall. Which is a real shame because homemade gingerbread with apple butter is so yummy.

8) What is your favorite autumnal candle to burn whilst reading?
Leaves from Bath and Body Works is the perfect fall candle. The scent notes are red apples, golden nectar and cloves. It smells like hot apple cider on a cozy fall day.

9) When you’re not reading, what is your favorite autumnal activity?
Watching fall movies! Some of my favorite autumn films include Stepmom, Little Women, Matilda and Casper.

10) What is on your autumn/fall reading list?
How long do you have? Mooncakes by Suzanne Walker and The Dark Descent of Elizabeth Frankenstein by Kiersten White are at the top of the list.
Both are books that have been on my ‘to be read’ list for an embracing long time.

This was such a fun bookish tag. I tag everyone, and looking forward to seeing your answers. Before you leave like and share the post. Don’t forget to give my bookish blog a follow.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Most Anticipated Book Releases // End Of The Year

- Bunny 1 Comment

Hi Friends,
The end of the year is creeping up fast, which is insane. Lately, I have been looking at the fall and winter book releases. In this post, I am going to be sharing my most anticipated releases for the last half of 2021.

September

What Once Was Mine by Liz Braswell (September 7th)

Disney retellings always peak my interest. This one is about Rapunzel, which is awesome since Tangled is one of my favorite Disney princess movies.

As If on Cue by Marisa Kanter (September 21st)

YA enemies-to-lovers are some of the best books, so I hope this one doesn’t disappoint. Sadly, I haven’t had the best lucky with hate-to-love romances this year. However, I am not going to let that effect my opinion of this book.

Once Upon A Broken Heart by Stephanie Garber (September 28th)

This is the first book in a new fairy tale series by Garber. The book is described as a whimsical romance that shows the length people will go to for happily ever after. This book has been getting a lot of buzz in the book world, and for good reason. It sounds amazing!

October


Squad by Lisa Sterle, Maggie Tokuda-Hall (October 5th)

This book is marketed as a combination of Buffy, Mean Girls, Teen Wolf, and every other teen drama. In the book, Becca learns that her new friends are a group of werewolves. Now, if I were her I’d be freaking out.

The Holiday Swap by Maggie Knox (October 5th)

I am obsessed with life swap stories. Whether the look-a-likes know each other or not. I cannot resist a good switch story. This one is about two sisters that trade places a few weeks before Christmas. It is going to be a messy romance, and I am here for it.

So, This Is Christmas by Tracy Andreen (October 5th)

This is a YA holiday book about a sixteen-year-old girl that returns home to her small town in Oklahoma. But, this Christmas everything seems to be different. Being a Christmas lover from Oklahoma, I cannot wait for this book.

November

Gilded by Marissa Meyer (November 2nd)
Another fairytale retelling that sounds incredible. This one is a reimaging of the Rumpelstiltskin story we have all come to know. I don’t know it is my love for the series ‘Once Upon A Time’, but Rumpelstiltskin is a character that has always intrigued me.

You’ve Reached Sam by Dustin Thao (November 2nd)

Should I just start crying now? I know this book is going to pull at my heartstrings. When a teenage girl’s boyfriend unexpectedly dies she’s heartbroken. But, she’s shocked when she calls his voicemail and he picks up. I’m not sure where the plots going to go, but I know it will be sad read.

You’ll Be the Death of Me by Karen M. McManus (November 30th)

All I know is that this is a thriller inspired by ‘Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.’ But I really don’t need to know anything else. One because I have been loving YA thrillers lately. Secondly, Karen M. McManus is one of my new favorite authors.

December

If This Gets Out by Cale Dietrich, Sophie Gonzales (December 7th)

I think this book is going to be swoon-worthy. It is a queer YA romance about to band member, Ruben and Zach, that start a romance. It sounds like there might be a lot of drama, but a cute relationship as well.

The Big Reveal by Jen Larsen (December 7th)

A young adult novel about a girl that gets accepted into her dream dance academy. In order to raise money to attend the school, she puts on an invite-only burlesque show. The book touches on topics such slut-and body-shaming.This is for sure going to be a lighthearted, but powerful contemporary.

How Not to Fall in Love by Jacqueline Firkins (December 21st)

I am counting down the days to the release of this YA contemporary. The story follows a pessimistic girl with a hard time believing in true love. Her hopeless romantic best friend enlist her help, so he doesn’t need up getting heartbroken for millionth time. But, of course a romance is bound to develop, and it will be delightful.

Those are the books releases at the top of my list for the last half of the year. Are any of these books on your tbr? What books are you looking forward to being released? Before you go, like and share this post. And, follow the blog to get notified about more bookish posts.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

 

Five Feet Apart // Book Review

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Title: Five Feet Apart
Author: Rachael Lippincott, Mikki Daughtry, Tobias Iaconis
Published: 2018
Genre: Young Adult/Contemporary

In this moving story two teens fall in love with just one minor complication—they can’t get within five feet of each other without risking their lives.
Source: Goodreads

I wasn’t sure if I should give the book 5 or 2 stars, because it truly broke my heart. However, I settled on 4 stars. I loved the writing style and the plot isn’t too far from John Green’s ‘Fault in Our Stars’. I was not a fan of Green’s book, yet it is very beloved. This book is not nearly as popular, but captivated me in ways ‘Faults in Our Stars’ didn’t. This was much more than a love story, even though that was a big part of the plot. It focused on death, illness, and not always getting what we want.

Stella is a major control freak with Cystic Fibrosis, waiting on new lungs. Will also has CF, but has contracted Cepacia as well, which is terminal to patients with CF. However, the two are drawn together after meeting during their most recent hospital stays. The only catch is that they must stay six feet apart at all times. I adored both characters, and watched their relationship grow organically. The book takes place solely in the hospital, and tries to paint the picture of what living with a chronic, life threatening condition is like.

“Everyone in this world is breathing borrowed air.”

I felt every heartbreaking thing Stella and Will felt. I hated their disease right along with them. And, I cried when the ending came. I don’t want to giveaway spoilers, because I do think that everyone should read this book. But this book doesn’t have a “happy” ending. Yes, the ending is somewhat great, still it breaks the readers heart in many ways.

The book was beautifully written and will give you great cry. I finished it in a day, which for me says that the plot was very engaging. I would have given it 5 stars, but I will probably never read it again. Only because it made me extremely sad. However, I could just be an overly emotional reader.

Remember, this isn’t a lighthearted ‘sick kids falling in love’ story, but it all works out in the end. But if you are looking for a book that will leave an impression on you, and give you a good cry, then you should give this book a read.

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Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny