niahraereads 's review for:

You Started It by Jackie Khalilieh

4.5

emotional funny lighthearted 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

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Thank you to Tundra Books and NetGalley for my ARC! This review contains my personal thoughts and opinions.

After falling in love with Jackie Khalilieh’s Something More last year, I couldn’t wait to dive into You Started It — and it absolutely delivered. This book was everything I hoped for and more. Following Jamie, the witty and lovable main character, through the ups and downs of her teenage love life felt like stepping into a perfect romantic comedy. From swoon-worthy scenes to hilarious banter and heartfelt life lessons, this story kept me smiling from beginning to end.

I loved the representation of Arab culture that was woven into the story. It was so fun visualizing the wedding scene and heartwarming reading about the evolution of the family dynamics. If you're a fan of YA books, the fake dating trope, or second-chance romance stories, this is a must-read. Khalilieh has such a fun, genuine voice, and You Started It is another shining example of her talent. I already can’t wait to see what she writes next!