I am pleased to announce my selection of another young adult contemporary novel authored by Emma Lord. I believe an explanation is unnecessary regarding my decision to engage with this work. I would like to extend my gratitude to NetGalley and Wednesday Books for providing me with an advanced copy for review purposes.
On the day of her high school graduation, Riley realizes two things: One, she has spent the last four years trying so hard to be a Good Kid for her mom that she has no idea who she is anymore, and two, she has no idea what she wants because of it. The solution? Pack her bags and move to New York for the summer, where her childhood best friend Tom and co-creator of The Getaway List ― a list of all the adventures they’ve wanted to do together since he moved away ― will hopefully help her get in touch with her old adventurous self, and pave the road to a new future. Riley isn’t sure what to expect from Tom, who has been distant since his famous mom’s scriptwriting career pulled him away. But when Riley arrives in the city, their reconnection is as effortless as it was when they were young―except with one, unexpected complication that will pull Riley’s feelings in a direction she didn’t know they could take. As she, Tom, and their newfound friends work their way through the delightfully chaotic items on The Getaway List, Riley learns that sometimes the biggest adventure is not one you take, but one you feel in your heart.
The dynamic and vibrant setting of New York City is among the most compelling aspects of the book. The author employs vivid and immersive descriptions that enhance the reader’s experience, particularly in the scenes set at the Brownie Bonanza. These moments are so engaging that one might wish for the establishment to exist in reality. The author’s ability to bring New York City to life through her narrative nearly allows the reader to feel a part of Riley and Tom’s journey, attending their writing class and meeting their new acquaintances. Additionally, the scenes involving the Dispatch App were equally enjoyable and effectively contributed to the overall narrative.
I found considerable merit in the book, with no particular elements standing out as unfavorable. The relationships between the protagonist, Riley, and the supporting characters, including her new acquaintances, were notably authentic. Additionally, the development of the romance between Tom and Riley was characterized by a gradual progression, as opposed to the more hurried pace often found in other literary works. I appreciated this aspect.
In conclusion, aficionados of the author will find this work fulfilling. Furthermore, I suggest this book to those readers who appreciate the friends-to-lovers narrative arc and the ambiance of summer in New York.
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