a satisfactory ya book that explores multiple different topics with grace.

this book follows emma and caleb, two ex-best friends who compete for the affection of the new girl at school, juliet, but slowly falling for each other as the competition continues. this premise definitely is light-hearted and i could see this being a rom-com, but it also delved into some deeper subjects as well, such as the complex relationships around family.

i thought the characters were the strongest part of the book; they're all so different and real, like these could be real people! i really liked emma; she was fearless, confident, and a good friend, even though she's going through so much by herself. caleb was a good character as well; he's not as loud and out there, but i loved his quiet style of caring and how he was always there for emma.

the pacing started slow, i'm not going to lie, but progressed more smoothly as the book went on. the writing was okay; i wasn't like moved or anything but i thought it was decent!

3.5 stars rounded up! it was a light romcom with good chemistry and enjoyable characters!

thanks to netgalley and penguin group for the arc