Take a photo of a barcode or cover
I appreciate that I got to read an early copy of Nothing like the Movies since I loved Better than the Movies so much. This book had me stressed out for the majority of the book. (Because in my head, I never imagined Wes and Liz breaking up at all.) It was frustrating and difficult to read about Lizโs actions towards Wes. I can understand where sheโs coming from with trying to protect herself from further pain, but I still found her annoying at times. Grief is an interesting emotion like that because it really follows no rules. Same goes for Wes with the passing away of his father. I appreciated reading from Wesโ perspective more since you could really experience the panic and trauma he was working through. I enjoyed the first book more. I am glad that we got our HEA, but I wish we had more time with them being together again and figuring out how to navigate their new relationship. Thanks again to NetGalley for an early copy in exchange for my honest review.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Panic attacks/disorders, Grief
Moderate: Death of parent
Minor: Alcohol, Injury/Injury detail
emotional
funny
reflective
โ๐ผ ๐๐๐พ๐๐ ๐๐ ๐๐๐พ๐๐ ๐ถ๐๐๐๐๐๐พ๐น๐ ๐๐๐โ
Did I know what to expect with this sequel? No, not at all. But this was great - I ate this up. I took my time with this read because this was one of my most anticipated releases for 2024. In short, I can say that I enjoyed this, despite any of its flaws, because I found it so fun to be reunited with these characters.
Iโll start by saying that Painter does a fantastic job at exploring grief with her characters. I loved that in Better Than The Movies, the reader read through Lizโs POV and saw how she coped with the loss of her mum and the grief that ensued. Nothing Like The Movies takes a similar approach, except this time the reader sees both POVs, now with a focus on Wes as he grieves his father. I really appreciate how Painter talks about death and that with NLTM we see a more complicated loss, in some ways, as Wes wasnโt only dealing with his own grief, but we also saw how his life was affected by how this grief manifested in his mum and sister. Itโs worth noting too that this definitely could have used a little more talk on mental health as this felt like it was often brushed over.
This was heartbreaking but I enjoyed seeing flashbacks and watching the characters grow from their shortcomings. These characters are flawed, and I love that Painter gives them their spotlight to work through their grief, frustrations, and personal struggles. Itโs also worth noting, because I know itโs not everyoneโs favourite, but miscommunication is at the forefront of this narrative. I know that will deter some, but I felt like it worked really well for the overarching story and really showcased the differences in how people grieve and the complexities outside of a persons reach that determine some of their final actions.
I laughed and I cried. This was so special and really showed the growth and maturity of the characters from the two years that have transpired since BTTM. I loved reading from Wesโs POV, his determination and drive in this book shone through and he was easily the star of the show.
Although you get more context behind the characters and their motivations, I think you could easily pick this up even if you havenโt read BTTM. Although, obviously with this being a sequel, Iโd recommend you read BTTM first for the best experience. This is the perfect read for a hopeless romantic that just wants to see Wes & Liz have their happily ever after. If you were a fan of Happy Place by Emily Henry I feel like this sequel will be for you. This felt like a YA reimagining of Happy Place, in some ways, so do with that what you will.
(Also, is there potential for a Ross & Lilith short story anyone? Iโd love to see where that goes ๐คญ)
Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for the complimentary e-arc in exchange for an honest review. All opinions in this review are my own.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Alcohol
Moderate: Panic attacks/disorders, Grief, Death of parent, Abandonment
Minor: Infidelity, Injury/Injury detail
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
relaxing
sad
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
A little quote from the book:
โYouโre looking at me like Iโm nuts, honey, and youโre right. I am. I am out of my mind when it comes to you,โ
Content Warnings
Graphic: Panic attacks/disorders, Grief, Alcohol
Minor: Death of parent