Better Than the Movies

Better Than the Movies

2021 • 356 pages

Ratings152

Average rating4

15

It’s rare for a YA romance book to live up to the hype, and let me tell you… this one does. I think it is in part due to the fact that although this is a book that is obviously set in high school, it didn’t feel childish. It felt just like a classic, sweet, and funny romance story. I could easily see this book being made into a movie that I watch multiple times on repeat.

As a rom-com lover, this book was the perfect mix. I loved all the references to my favorite movies and seeing the tropes play out in a way that broke the fourth wall but also was serious in playing them out. Not only that, but it is clear that Wes… ELITE male romance lead. He was funny, sweet, and clearly madly in love with the girl even if she didn’t see it. (Also… is it just me who pictured a Dylan O'Brian in his Teen Wolf era as Wes while reading this book?). I was practically swooning at certain parts.

This book is also hilarious in a way that I wasn’t expecting. There are multiple events where it seems like fate is trying to tell our brilliant female lead to maybe look for romance elsewhere, but goodness… it was gold. I truly found myself laughing at the absurdity while also thinking about how that could totally happen to me (misfortune is my bestie…what can I say?)

As with any good romance book, it touched on more topics than just romance and “getting the guy”. It dealt with grief and what it’s like to NOT move on while everyone else does. It was such as interesting and yet relevant subject that was written in a really relatable way.

Overall, I loved this book. It was a perfect weekend read, and I can see myself re-reading it in the future. It gives you hope… and if you are a hopeless romantic already, this book will just add to the proof that it exists. I would highly recommend!

March 29, 2024