I picked this up on a whim from my bookstore a couple of weeks ago after hearing about it for years, and I'm happy to say it didn't disappoint and that I need the second volume to come out right now!!!!

If you know me, you'll probably not be surprised to know that I instantly connected with Ari. I'm years from being fresh out of high school myself, but the self-doubt and inability to know who you are and what you want deeply resonated with me. That feeling like you're not only letting everybody around you down, but also yourself? Every time I encounter a character going through the same thing, I just want to protect them and give them the world 😭

Hector is a human ball of sunshine, and I loved his love for baking so much! He is such a strong character, not only because he supports Ari at every turn and does his best to be there for him and be a good (boy)friend, but also because he is never afraid to set boundaries and call out problematic behavior, even with Ari himself 👏🏻 They're exactly what each other needed and I fall for it every time!!!

Now, I will say that the pacing of this felt a bit rushed (and a tiiiiny little bit insta-lovey, because I feel like the friends stage was done very well, but the more/getting together part was too immediate for my liking), which is why it doesn't get a full 5 stars. I still highly recommend it for a cute, cozy read, though, and I'm very much looking forward to how Ari and Hector's story continues next year!!