Review: Again, but Better by Christine Riccio (Spoiler-Free)

✵ Thank you to St. Martin's Press Wednesday Books and NetGalley for providing me with an early copy of this book for review! Release date: May 7, 2019 ✵ This book was really a rollercoaster. I mean this both emotionally and plot-wise. I was elated, frustrated, depressed, disappointed, and surprised all over the course of this book. I missed a key part of the synopsis that a hint of magic would be involved... so I was quite shocked when the story took a 180 halfway through. While I did overall enjoy this book, there were some things about it that irked me, and some things about it that I liked, but I could see others not liking. Let's start with the aspects that I liked, but I could see others disliking: ✵ Shane's voice was very juvenile for a 20 year old. I didn't mind this because I'm only 16 so her voice seemed more reflective of someone my age. I could relate to it, but I could totally see how actual 20 year olds found it annoying or immature. ✵ Her "crush" on Pilot was very obsessive and all-consuming. I didn't really mind this because I have definitely seen people fall for someone in this way, but the fact that it's not healthy probably bothered some other readers. Also, I do think that this issue is addressed by the end of the book, so that's why it didn't bother me personally.

Aspect I disliked: ✵ Her parents constant verbal abuse was glossed over. Sure, she talked about how it hurt her, but her friends were relatively unconcerned by it. Even Shane herself just decided to "deal with it," which I don't think is a healthy message to be spreading. All in all, I enjoyed this book. I loved the message it provided about following what you truly want and not simply what you think you should achieve. I was thoroughly entertained, and I would definitely be interested in reading her future books.

Song I was reminded of while reading: Not Over You