This book had a lot of great twists in it, nothing major, just things that were unexpected even from the synopsis. It also seemed very realistic for how a teenager would act with both their friends and their family, based on not only the major life changes Emily has gone through with losing her mother a few years ago, but also just even being unsure of her feelings and wants in a relationship. And also how to deal with the changing friendship that seems to happen when people grow up and their interests and thoughts change based on whatever. The small town aspect really was even a big factor for Emily, even if her own family and immediate friends wouldn’t be anything against the new thoughts she was having.

There were also a lot of cute parts that I really liked. The small town bingo nights. I especially liked the one at the very end, which culminated in a big to-do that had been kind of hinted at always being just on the brink of throughout its entire history. And it was definitely very emotional going through Emily’s mother list with her, and how she kind of learned more about who she was and what she wanted. Although it was definitely hard to not feel bad for Matt at certain parts. A great story, one I look forward to sharing with my students next school year!

Review first published on Lisa Loves Literature