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romanticread 's review for:

This Time Around by Marina Pirlimpou
4.25

I am pretty dang impressed with this as the author’s debut novel. It was fun, with an interesting take on her characters getting to know each other. I loved the way they threw themselves into the teen selves and spent time getting to know each other better. An interesting mix of YA and adult contemporary, with the way they enjoyed all of the teen activities but with the outlook that age brings.

It’s fantastic the way that Maddy is able to take her adult perspective (and later her teen experiences as an adult again) and really accept her quirkiness. With Nate’s help she embraces who she is and thrives. And speaking of Nate … such a fabulous friend and then boyfriend. He’s supportive, caring, and oh-so-sweet, embracing all the things that make Maddy unique.

I will say that if I thought too much about it there were things that bothered me. Like, even tho their minds were 30 something, the first half of the book their bodies were those of teens. And while I totally got behind their connection, their physical attraction was a bit … I mean they are mentally grown adults finding themselves attracted to teens. They didn’t really act on it past kissing but … yeah. And no one else caught on that they were different? Friends, family? Also, the reason for the time travel wasn’t explored either. While it didn’t bother me, it seems to be an issue for some.

Overall tho great first outing! Entertaining plot and enjoyable characters, with a HEA journey that tickled me. I’m definitely looking forward to what comes next (fingers crossed it’s Cooper and Liam :))

**I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**