A review by taketwolu
In the Orbit of You by Ashley Schumacher

Two childhood friends, Nova and Sam, who are separated by a move reconnect years later during their senior year of high school. Despite the gap, the two are still drawn to each other. The only problem is that Sam has a girlfriend and Nova will move soon.

Schumacher’s books always manage to tear up my heart while doing so in deep, meaningful, significant ways. In this book, we explore the effects of abuse, constant moving, identity struggles, trauma, messy relationships, and finding one’s self. 

Nova and Sam have my heart!! As childhood friends, the comfort these two had for each other was so heartwarming despite the heartbreaking conditions. There was some grey area emotional ‘cheating’ which had me and the characters fumbling. Knowing their backstory too had me rooting for them but the present day drama had me anxious and wishing that Sam would speak up. Still, I loved how raw, authentic, and layered each person’s story was.

The writing and pacing are captivating and had me speeding through! The heavier topics and triggers were addressed with care and the ending had me on edge. There was such a mix of emotions and though I’m not sure how I felt about the epilogue, I still enjoyed this overall!

Thanks, Netgalley and St Martin’s Press for my arc!