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hidees13's review
emotional
funny
hopeful
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? N/A
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
I put off reading this book for a long time, despite it being downloaded on my kindle because everyone on social media would always say how it nearly broke them, or they cried for days, and it stuck with them. I'm not a huge hurt/comfort trope fan, and I really dont read a lot that I know ahead of time is just tragic. However, this one kept getting such rave reviews.
So, the good -- I did like this book. I am glad I have read it. It kept my attention and I did avoid most responsibilities that day to keep reading. I liked both the main characters - even though I was sort of rooting against some of their behaviors. (Eg: The big bursts of anger from Jake, the deep insecurity and constant need for reassurance from Felix) I was caught up in their love story, and despite knowing what they were doing was a bad idea for their recovery, I still was rooting for them. Very cute.
The, not as good --
I agree with the other review someone posted that talked about the lack of conversation or insight into Jakes military service. THREE tours?! Have you ever met anyone that just did 3 deployments. Its significant! There is no way that doesn't impact his story. I felt like it was thrown in to make him look admirable, but without any real consideration if that was reasonable. (I don't really know much about military life, but after 3 tours he's kicked out after one fight?? Like, no appeals nothing? Giving up all the veteran benefits he'd be entitled to?... It felt like this was way too quick, not to mention how many service members have substance abuse problems, and PTSD from their time serving). I also would have liked to know more about his bisexual awakening, etc... How was that when he was a marine?
I also didn't find this book as heartbreaking as everyone said it was. Maybe I'm too cynical? Haha. I was at 50% and was like.. when is the big sad coming? I did feel emotions, but the only time I was near crying or had any tears was towards the end and it was really about the CJ/Jake relationship, that felt brutal.
Overall -- it was a good leisurely read, but nothing I'll come back for, or thats sticking with me long term. And don't get me wrong, that's ok!
So, the good -- I did like this book. I am glad I have read it. It kept my attention and I did avoid most responsibilities that day to keep reading. I liked both the main characters - even though I was sort of rooting against some of their behaviors. (Eg: The big bursts of anger from Jake, the deep insecurity and constant need for reassurance from Felix) I was caught up in their love story, and despite knowing what they were doing was a bad idea for their recovery, I still was rooting for them. Very cute.
The, not as good --
I agree with the other review someone posted that talked about the lack of conversation or insight into Jakes military service. THREE tours?! Have you ever met anyone that just did 3 deployments. Its significant! There is no way that doesn't impact his story. I felt like it was thrown in to make him look admirable, but without any real consideration if that was reasonable. (I don't really know much about military life, but after 3 tours he's kicked out after one fight?? Like, no appeals nothing? Giving up all the veteran benefits he'd be entitled to?... It felt like this was way too quick, not to mention how many service members have substance abuse problems, and PTSD from their time serving). I also would have liked to know more about his bisexual awakening, etc... How was that when he was a marine?
I also didn't find this book as heartbreaking as everyone said it was. Maybe I'm too cynical? Haha. I was at 50% and was like.. when is the big sad coming? I did feel emotions, but the only time I was near crying or had any tears was towards the end and it was really about the CJ/Jake relationship, that felt brutal.
Overall -- it was a good leisurely read, but nothing I'll come back for, or thats sticking with me long term. And don't get me wrong, that's ok!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Abandonment, Addiction, Alcoholism, and Drug use
Moderate: Death of parent
Minor: Death of parent, Domestic abuse, and Emotional abuse
beyourownprincess's review
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Addiction, Domestic abuse, Drug abuse, and Drug use
Moderate: Pregnancy
Minor: Miscarriage, Xenophobia, Vomit, Homophobia, and Racial slurs
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