Dear Edward by Ann Napolitano

I remember lots of buzz about this novel when it came out early last year, but now it feels like AGES ago. I happened upon it at the library recently and decided to finally give it a shot.

Edward is the sole survivor of an airplane crash and is left to deal with the immense grief and overwhelming emotions of surviving. His aunt and uncle attempt to protect him from the fallout, but he turns to a neighborhood girl for some semblance of normalcy. 

This book jumps back and forth between the events prior to the crash and Edward in the years after. It is simply an incredible look at grief and recovery. I was captivated from start to finish. 5 Stars | Amazon | Bookshop.org

Life’s Too Short by Abby Jimenez

ALLL THE STARS!!! A bookstagram friend sent me her advanced copy and now I can tell everyone to go preorder this now. Right now! It’s easily my favorite of Abby’s books and is absolutely going to be one of the best books of the year.

Vanessa has a successful business showcasing her travels on Instagram. She makes sure she enjoys every moment of her life, even when her sister abandons her daughter, leaving Vanessa to pick up the pieces once again. When her ridiculously hot next door neighbor steps in to help, she can’t help imagining a future life with a husband and kids, something that is never a guarantee.

This is emotional and bold and full of learning to live life to the fullest. Incredible. 5 Stars | Amazon | Bookshop.org

The Midnight Library by Matt Haig

What happens when you’re given the chance to see how your life would turn out if you’d made different choices? Between life and death, there is a library filled with an infinite number of books. When Nora arrives, she is faced with every possible alternative life she could have lived. She must find her best life before time runs out.

This is a fascinating thought experiment showing how our assumptions about alternative choices may not be exactly what we expect. There are always opportunities to take control of our own life and make changes to get what we want and need. 4 Stars | Amazon | Bookshop.org

Kiss My Cupcake by Helena Hunting

A rom com featuring a bakery competing against a Scottish bar? Sign. Me. Up. 

As much as I wanted to adore this, it was a little too cutesy and punny for me? I know, I can’t believe I’m saying that either, but apparently I do have a line that can go over into too much territory. 3 Stars | Amazon | Bookshop.org

Perfect on Paper by Sophie GonzalesA young adult novel full of solid love advice and learning to find and accept the relationship that’s right for you. Darcy anonymously runs a dating advice program at her school, but is discovered one day by another classmate. She agrees to step up her game and help him win back his girlfriend if he keeps her secret.

Meanwhile, she’s pining over her best friend and makes some ethically questionable decisions when Brooke starts dating someone else. Darcy can’t seem to let go of her Brooke fantasy, but realizes the boy she’s helping deserves more than a passing glance.

If you’re looking for a diverse book, this is certainly it! There are lots of discussions about the different types of sexualities and they’re treated in a respectful and knowledgeable manner.

Also, the relationship advice given throughout the novel is surprisingly accurate and well thought out! The actual plot wasn’t terribly enthralling and there was a bit too much pining for people that are clearly wrong for the characters, it was a solid middle of the road YA read. 3.5 Stars | Amazon | Bookshop.org