A review by proudtobeabookaholic
Love and Other Words by Christina Lauren

emotional hopeful inspiring sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No

5.0

Macy Sorensen is busy with life as a pediatrics resident and planning her wedding. She's not prepared to suddenly stand face to face with Elliot Petropoulos - her first and only love - for the first time in 11 years. Once he was her everything. Until he broke her heart. 

Wow, this got all the feels! When I was done I wanted to start over, because I wanted to spend more time with Macy and Elliot! I can't really believe I haven't read Christina Lauren before, but that's gonna change!

The story alternates between two timelines, THEN beginning when our protagonists are 13 and 14, and meet for the first time. We get to see them become friends, and how they spend their time reading books and exchanging favorite words. As time goes their feelings start to change, and it's both cute and sometimes awkward to follow. In the NOW Macy is trying to avoid Elliot, but when he insists on meeting she finally gives in.

Besides the characters, there are other things I love about this book. Macy and Elliot both being booklovers and spending a lot of their teenager years reading together is an obvious thing. Also their "routine" asking for each other's favorite words. I also love how present Macy's dad is in her life. Her mom died of cancer and she left him with a long list of things to do in various situations. He might not feel completely comfortable at all times, but he follows the list and gives Macy all he's got. I wish every child could have a parent like that!

Of course, you're also curious about what really happened 11 years ago, why Macy never talked to Elliot again. Some things you can guess, but there's always another layer. I have a strong feeling that these two will keep living in my head for a long time! Highly recommended!
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