A review by alindeman
Nate Plus One by Kevin van Whye

emotional hopeful inspiring lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

I loved this book. The romance was really cute but I think honestly even more enjoyable than that was getting to see Nate reconnect with his fathers home and getting to learn about South Africa along the way with him. This historical/cultural education aspect really adds another dimension and all around makes this a better book. Learning about other cultures is great and to do it as the character themselves learn is so clever. As for the negatives, I definitely rooted for the romance but I don’t think we were given enough of a background on their friendship to be realllyyyy invested in the romance. I was definitely invested in Nate’s happiness tho. Also there’s a third act breakup (they’re so common in romance plots I don’t consider this a spoiler) and I absolutely hate that trope. I think it’s so unnecessary and silly and really just frustrating. It’s so common too, why can’t people fall in love without conflict? I would have much rather had that story space being used to showcase their love instead. It especially sucks when the eventual conflict resolution happens so close to the end, which it did. Those 2 things were really the only reason this book isn’t a 5. Overall a solid 4/5, a very enjoyable read, definitely recommend, would probably read again!
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