A review by jaynekernodle
Love and Other Words by Christina Lauren

emotional medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75

LOVED. I devoured this book. 

However, for a long time I had this book at 5 stars, but there is one aspect that just marred it all. Unfortunately, it's a pretty large spoiler. I don't mind the thing itself per say, but the way it was handled in the narrative.
My only complaint lies in the way Elliot's sexual assault experience is just brushed under the rug for Macy's tragedy. While, yes, the entire situation was heartbreaking, something about it felt cheap and I wish we'd had the opportunity to break down the fact that he was passed out drunk and saying Macy's name and still Emma had sex with him. I just wish this hadn't been so fully eclipsed by Macy's dad dying. I believe there was space for both events to breathe and  be completely processed.

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