sharon_reads 's review for:

You Started It by Jackie Khalilieh

4.0

emotional funny lighthearted reflective fast-paced

Plot or Character Driven: Character

Strong character development: Yes

Loveable characters: Yes

Diverse cast of characters: Yes

Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

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Jackie did it again with another amazing novel. It’s like I slipped into my teenager self and remembering how it all felt to be in senior year, dating, and the anxiety of it all. Bonus that it took place in Toronto, which made the entire novel feel close to home. At times all of the characters got on my nerves and were frustrating, but then I remember me at that age and can say I too was annoying so it suited the characters well. Watching Jamie finally start to embrace herself and doing things on her own, conquering her fears was amazing and was written so perfectly to show her growth throughout the novel. Axel giving her the opportunity to experience her culture in a judgement free zone was everything Jamie needed to help see more than what her mother had been telling her. As far as I’m concerned, any of Jackie’s books will be a win in my book.