Read a proof copy of this book.

I read We Were Liars 5+ years ago and the way it was written has stayed with me so strongly so I was really excited to read this book. It was fast-paced, mysterious, dark and somehow still really fun. I loved the use of fairy-tales in the books and how Carrie positioned herself in them.

I definitely think you'll get more out of this if you refresh your memory of We Were Liars before reading (I didn't and sometimes didn't appreciate everything that was happening because I couldn't remember). As interesting as this story was, I didn't feel the same impact as the writing as I did in WWL hence the four stars.

Despite the enjoyable descriptions of nature, I can't give this book anything more than 1 star. With every page turn I was hesitant to see what 'yikes' moment would come next. The ending felt rushed and took away a lot of meaning in the book. There were so many inconsistencies in plot, character, speech. Not to mention the author is wanted for murder which is it's whole issue.

Alongside all these problems, we're supposed to romanticise 18/19 Tate actively sexualising a 14 year old Kya and think it's okay? And then admire him for not having sex with her because she's too young despite his already touching her and commenting on her breasts. Is the bar *that* low?!

The book got significantly better once Kya was an adult and with the trial scenes - but again all of this is rendered useless at the end of the book with the 'plot twist' anyway.

The only reason I finished this book was because it's so highly praised and loved and I don't see how people look past these issues. If I could give it less than one star I would.

Read a proof copy.
A unique and gripping story right from the start. I was slightly sceptical of this book in the first few pages as I felt like it was quite rigid and flat but I quickly got invested and this only grew as I read even more of the book. Slightly predictable plot, perhaps, but I still really enjoyed it. It was sitting at a comfortable four stars, a book I really enjoyed but wasn't a stand-out, until the last 50 pages or so when everything started to come together and I couldn't put the book down. Really enjoyed it and I can't wait to speak to people about it when it comes out!

A really lovely book following Nina's journey to self-love, which inadvertantly makes the reader reflect on themselves too in a really natural and healthy way. Nina's journey is inspiring and the way this book is written makes it so easy to keep turning the page to Nina's next self-love lesson.

made me slam the book shut in frustration (the good, invested-in-the-plot kind) and scream out loud in joy. it would be a complete lie if I gave it anything less than five stars. Super comfort-no-hurt vibes and just feels like you're wrapped in a warm blanket.

A sweet read about a blooming relationship. Enjoyed it and looking forward to the next one.