Scan barcode
A review by nicola949
Always Been You by Jess Buffett
I enjoyed this friends-to-lovers story. I liked the characters and felt sympathetic to their plight. Back in High School, Seth and Jared were on the verge of acknowledging how they felt about each other, when events drove them apart for eleven years. The plot had some good elements. However, I do think this book didn't fully live up to it's potential.
There was opportunity to provide more depth to the characters, to share more of what happened in the time they were apart - a lot would have happened in those eleven years. Some aspects of the story were too rushed. For example, the events that lead to Seth and Jared separation were explained but only at a high level, not fully delving into the emotional fallout. In truth,, just seemed a bit too convenient.
The immediate forgiveness and starting a relationship also seemed unrealistic, at least without a more detailed discussion of feelings. I also really struggled to fully understand why
Even though I think there are a number of areas where the story could have benefited from more depth, I still enjoyed reading the story of Seth and Jared. It was a nice hour spent reading of two nice guys with great families, who finally get their happy ending! But not before a bit of drama provided by the bitchy and deranged girl from high school.
There was opportunity to provide more depth to the characters, to share more of what happened in the time they were apart - a lot would have happened in those eleven years. Some aspects of the story were too rushed. For example, the events that lead to Seth and Jared separation were explained but only at a high level, not fully delving into the emotional fallout. In truth,
Spoiler
Seth leaving the very next day after the graduation party and his new roommate intercepting Jared's letters and phone callThe immediate forgiveness and starting a relationship also seemed unrealistic, at least without a more detailed discussion of feelings. I also really struggled to fully understand why
Spoiler
Jared waited two whole years after deciding to try to win Seth, before approaching him. Not only did this not make much sense when surely Seth needed support during this time, but the two year gap didn't seem necessary for the plot.Even though I think there are a number of areas where the story could have benefited from more depth, I still enjoyed reading the story of Seth and Jared. It was a nice hour spent reading of two nice guys with great families, who finally get their happy ending! But not before a bit of drama provided by the bitchy and deranged girl from high school.