Entering the world of Southside High for the first time was quite an experience. I loved how diverse the characters were and how complex. All of the characters are beautifully flawed in some way or another, which makes them so much more real to the reader and more relatable as well.

Lace is a girl who's had bad things happen in her past, but is determined to rise above and make something of herself, no matter how difficult. I found her resonating with me the most. Partly because she is female and so am I, but also because in spite of everything in hers and my childhood, we were determined to make things better. There's also something so tragic about the way she looks at herself. Even though she's strong and determined, in the majority of the book she's very down on herself and doesn't see what everyone else sees in her.

Bryan is my favorite of the two main guys. You know that he's made mistakes, but you also see that he's got a very good heart and that he's protective and loyal to those close to him. I like that there is a shared history between him and Lace as well. I'm a sucker for those childhood friends who grow up and notice each other in a whole new light.

War could be a nice guy if he wanted, but he is my least favorite main character. He's controlling and doesn't see anything outside his little view of the world and what's best for everyone around him. He doesn't notice when others are hurting, and when he does, he doesn't seem to care. At the beginning I really wanted to like him, because he seemed loyal too and a product of his circumstances, but as the book went on, I disliked him more and more.

The ending is a bit of a cliffhanger, so I am eager and anxious to read the next volume in the story. I recommend this book to fans of Siobhan Davis, or any other complex contemporary romance writer. Or if you're a fan of rock star romance, or love triangles.

*I was surprised and blessed with an advanced copy of this book, which I voluntarily reviewed.*