my expectations were very low as I started this book. I don't mind a little junk reading if you know what I mean. its kind of like a trashy TV addiction... but I have to tell you, this book captivated me. it started admittedly slow and none of the characters were particularly interesting, but I suppose in retrospect that's kind of the point. I don't think I've had an infatuation of any sort for the male lead of a book since I was probably in middle school, but like many other reviewers, I have to say that alex was easily my favorite in this book and made this love story one of favorites ever. the writing was particularly good and extremely relatable...anyone who has ever fallen absolutely and completely head over heals for someone will find the descriptions and illustration by Oliver quite brilliantly and astonishingly real. I read matched a few weeks before this (with equally low expectations) and I enjoyed it on a very shallow and amusing level. the stories are quite alike, but in every way that matched irritated me, from character depth and development to writing style and talent, delirium delivered. I will read Oliver's other novels for sure, but I expect that one will match my adoration for this one.