Heather Firth
4.5 STARS This book was not at ALL was I was expecting! I'm a huge Jessica Hawkins fan and I've read quite a few of her previous books. I'm totally addicted to her signature brand of hot, forbidden and shocking. This certainly has all of those elements, some more than others, but the story is more of a slow burn and buildup to what will happen in the next two books. It is set in the past, in 1993. It had me feeling so old and nostalgic for my own young adult years! I loved all the pop culture references. This first installment of this series I would classify as more young adult or new adult, as the heroine is only 16 years old. Those aren't my favorite genres as I like my heroines a bit older and more mature, but I can't say no to a book from this author. She definitely held my attention by making a little home in my heart for the characters. Her love interest, Manning, is seven years older than Lake. There is that forbidden element. However, there is no sexual relationship between them. The foundation for their relationship is more of a friendship with a side of forbidden sexual tension. Lake is young in body and mind, but she has a maturity beyond her years. Despite that, Manning is a stand up guy with morals and he isn't willing to cross that line. The something in between them is Lake's older and infuriating sister, Tiffany. And the shocking part that I never saw coming? Naturally, that comes at the end with the cliff-hanger. I was left gaping like a fish out of water wondering if it really happened the way I read it! I had to go back and double check. Overall, I prefer my books with more heat, but given Lake and Manning's age difference, I was thankful that line wasn't crossed because I would have lost some respect for Manning.
2 people found this review helpful
Clarissa Palomar
It's been too long since I've felt enchanted by a book. This book was AMAZING. Lake and Manning's story feels so unique, yet familiar. It teaches us about love and it's innocence, as well as feeling so free but so binding because of such emotions. I'm in a tangled web of them! And we can't let the 90s nostalgia go unnoticed. I can't wait to start the next book.
2 people found this review helpful