A review by randeetok
The Happy Ever After Playlist by Abby Jimenez

challenging tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.0

This is my fourth Abby Jimenez book and the first I’m not raving about. The story is cute and the writing is lovely but what I love about her books is how relatable and real the stories feel. This one just doesn’t feel possible, a relationship way too rushed for the circumstances and not as authentic feeling. I’m sad because I was SO excited for Sloan’s second big break. 

Don’t get me wrong, the book is not bad. I read it in a day, I enjoyed it. The story just isn’t as relatable as her books have been so far. 

I love that Sloan’s best friend supported her moving on and actually pushed for it. I was thrilled when Jason pushed Sloan to head of his parents so she can work on her art and take a break. I was also happy when Lola had a redeeming character arc. 

It’s not realistic that an up and coming music star would date a nobody, only because they’d never have the time to date. I felt they feel hard and fast but were given a bunch of challenges right away, realistically that would have torn them apart. Maybe I’m just not a hopeless romantic enough ;). I love that she stated cooking and writing again and I wish we heard more about her realism drawing/painting. 

Loving that the girls are having babies together and living next door to each other. That is the best friend dream!

I did read the authors note and I enjoy that she did write about her friend who was suffering from something that hopefully most of us will never have to experience. Check in on your loved ones.