A review by niffler_for_words
Say You Mean It by Megan Reinking

emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted relaxing fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

“To me life is about grasping onto the high moments and hoping like hell that they’ll carry you through the low ones.”

Say You Mean It was a fantastic ride. Like Blair in the plane in the opening scene, I felt shaken at first, when I realized the book was about depression (I knew that when I chose it, I had just forgotten about it when I began to read). 

The mental health’s representation was delightful –truly– and a perfect opportunity to heal. 

I adored how Blair’s thoughts were pictured as voices, how their content and “interlocutors” changed, until Blair found her own voice again. It was really moving, believable, and a great character’s arc. The role of Nature was a delight too, Blair’s evolution regarding her interactions on the island, but mostly the physicality of it –supported by a magnificent writing, the sensorial descriptions were a marvel– and how it helped her to anchor herself in her body and life. 

I loved Graham, how unjudging and supportive he was, helping Blair in her journey. The fact that he had his own challenges, very different from hers (and outside the relationship) was also great and added a plot to the romance. 

Through the characters (main and side), the story, and the immersive and soothing writing, this novel was a sweet and soft bubble that came to me right when I needed it. I was on this Island –but I wish I were really there– and like Blair I began to heal. 

Thank you NetGalley and Megan Reinking for this ARC in exchange for my free and honest review. My opinions are my own.