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Artifacts of an Ex by Jennifer Chen
4.0
emotional hopeful 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

Artifacts of An Ex is a sweet YA romance. When Chloe’s grandmother suffers a health scare, Chloe and her family move out to California to be with her. Unfortunately, this means Chloe and her boyfriend Jake are going long-distance. Then Jake sends a shoebox of Chloe’s belongings without warning. Heartbroken and confused, Chloe is inspired to create Heartifacts- an exhibit of items from broken-up couples. There she meets Daniel, who is filming his best friend’s reaction to his personal relationship box. As Chloe and Daniel pursue their artistic goals, what happens when Chloe begins to have feelings for Daniel? 

I really enjoyed Artifacts of An Ex! It was a lighthearted and enjoyable YA romance. Chloe is a driven and creative character who is determined to make art out of her heartbreak. Daniel is also very driven, but much more guarded due to past bad experiences where he was the second choice romantically. One of my favorite things was the relationship between Chloe and her grandma; it felt very realistic and loving. I only wish I could try some of the delicious pineapple cake that Chloe painstakingly recreates with her ahma! Chloe’s family was always supportive and encouraging of her art, which was great to see. Readers who enjoyed Rent A Boyfriend (Gloria Chao), I Love You So Mochi (Sarah Kuhn), and A Cuban Girl’s Guide to Tea and Tomorrow (Laura Taylor Namey) will love this book.

Thank you to Jennifer Chen, Wednesday Books, and Netgalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.