I wouldn't say I am amazed at how this book took booklovers by storm, because despite my extremely tight schedule, I couldn't put it down till I reached the very last page. I was on an emotional rollercoaster all through. I'd like to start by saying that this book is indeed a treasure trove of romance.
And to think I actually thought I had an idea of the plot twist midway through the book, but no, I did not! Not even a tiny idea.
About The Book
The novel begins with the introduction of one outstanding character Persephone. However, I like her nickname ‘Percy’ better. Percy had some sort of ill luck with finding stable romantic relationships, which is most times very peculiar to most adults who barely know themselves. But with Percy however, there was an underlying reason why she couldn't find the romantic connection she desired. It wasn't until I read about the death of Sue, who was somewhat a mother figure to her, earlier in the book, that I understood the reason why.
It all began with Percy's family buying a cottage next door to Sam's house during summer, which automatically made Percy and Sam neighbours. Now, they did not just start off as lovers, because of course they were both children. They started off as friends, introduced to each other by Charlie, Sam's elder brother.
Nerdy Sam, and weird Percy immediately become inseparable as children spending time swimming, or in Sam's house watching horror movies. I actually love the idea of a friends to lovers kind of romance. Compared to love at first sight, I feel it's a more realistic portrayal of love. It’s so easily obvious that they were each other's first love and trust me the memories evoked by our first love are so powerful, almost unforgettable. First love almost never dies, hehe.
My Opinion
I'm in awe of how the author did a slow buildup of the characters, carefully intertwining events that led to other events. For me, it allowed a better appreciation of Sam and Percy's love story.
Contrary to what you might think, this book is not just about the 'regular' love story. It explores the coming of age experience of two young people with very different personalities. These radically different personalities create a love story that is not simple yet stands the test of time.
This book tugged at the inner part of my heart, reminding me of what love truly felt like, and how free we are when we are truly around the people we love. When it feels like there is no one you'd rather be around with, than them
However, we still have the situation of how unrequited one sided love in a budding friendship can permanently end the friendship and I kid you not when I say that I thought it would be so for Sam and Percy, but Carley Fortune obviously had other thoughts in mind. Sam and Percy's relationship shows us what it is like to fall in love with a friend–your best friend–and the fear that comes with it. Understanding that these feelings could end, and have, over time, ended beautiful friendships, but still brave enough to give it a shot. To understand slowly, the warmth and comfort, and love, they have to share when you eventually give into those feelings.
Another thing in the book that stood out for me, was their breakup and eventual reunion after a long period of time. This might sound weird but I like to see and hear about the rekindling of long lost love (only when it is genuine of course).
Also, I have heard a lot of people argue about the familiarity of the plot in this book, but there's something about it that makes it feel completely brand new. Have you ever picked up a book that made you feel different emotions all at once? Anger, pain, love, appreciation and gratitude. As a person who is slowly trying to embrace the reading culture, if a book doesn't elicit some sort of emotions from me, I automatically do not like that book.
Recommendation
I don't really want to give any spoilers but this is the sort of book that gets you out of your reading slump. The sort of novel that makes you want to binge read your whole holiday away (I never thought I would say this about a romance novel). That's how good this book is.
Now, whether you're a romance novel freak or not, you'll want to grab a copy of this book and enjoy every bit of its goodness. In the end, the kudos goes to Carley Fortune for creating a masterpiece.
Love🤍
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