3.5/5 rounded down

I had high expectations going into this. I’ve seen so many reels about how good it was, it’s been on so many lists. I knew absolutely nothing about this book beyond it was a YA. I didn’t even realize it was purely a romance until I started it. 

It’s kind of slow. It starts off with a large event only to rewind to the beginning of high school more or less for the two main characters. It’s a slice of life for a long time with the main plot just being Autumn’s self realization of her feelings. 

At first I didn’t mind Autumn but really she became really…whiny. Very self centered the entire book. Her depression is relatable, and I’m not sure if it’s supposed to make her more endearing or what, but that’s about it. Being in the throes of depression and not realizing it is absolutely something that happens in high school (happened to me).

I liked the writing style because it did feel earnest in the way that high schoolers thoughts are. But it kind of drags because high school does. Slice of life novels are not my thing so that’s not on the author. 

It also comes off as really pro life to me and anti medication as well which I didn’t sign up for/didn’t like.

Look at how many teen pregnancies turn out fine! Abortion isn’t discussed or an option (Finn’s mom, Angie and now autumn!) depression medication is for the birds and useless when all you need is love or a baby

In that way, it doesn’t quite feel like a modern novel. I don’t think I’m going to pick up the accompanying book through Finn’s eyes.