A review by munro_reads
Words in Deep Blue by Cath Crowley

emotional hopeful reflective relaxing fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

This was such a wonderful YA contemporary romance to read in one sitting. I can confidently place this among my favourite books of that genre. It was very cute and sweet with a surprising amount of depth- certainly a stellar, feel-good read! It just made me feel warm, comfy and cozy and it was the best thing after a stressful week.

Crowley’s writing makes this book an extremely easy and accessible read, with dialogue that feels authentic alongside some really beautiful prose. The central theme of books throughout also lent to some fun references and gorgeous quotes that I loved seeing!

Due to the length of this book, it felt like a quick snapshot into the characters’ lives in the best way. Crowley gives us complex and interesting protagonists and side-characters that produce a really wonderful dynamic to read about - although I think it could’ve been even better had it been slightly longer, allowing for us to see more of the characters and dig just a little bit deeper.

The dynamics of the various relationships in this book felt so real and authentic, and it painted a very realistic picture of individual struggles and the uniqueness of one’s experience with maneuvering grief. As a result, this book is certainly not light - but the depth and nuance adds so much to the plot and relationships that blossom and grow. 

The ‘Letter Library’ is how this book truly shines - the commentary on the importance of storytelling and how some beautiful human connections form as a result was truly stunning. I loved the way random (or sometimes less random that you think) interactions between individuals in the pages of books peppered the plot and tied together all the themes really nicely at the end of the novel. 

This book just sparked so much joy - to the point where I nearly cried. While I’ve definitely read better books in my time, this one really holds its own and I would highly recommend it. I’m really excited to go back through and tab some of the wonderful prose.

Please go read it! You won’t be disappointed.

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