Review: SIMPLY LOVELY
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 10 29, 2013
OPPOSITES ATTRACT!It's a classic story of boy meets girl, both from opposite sides of the tracks. We've read it over and over, seen the movie and met the players but every once in a while a version just jumps out. This is one of those versions. My thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to read/review this book.ISN'T SHE LOVELY is just that a lovely read. It is honest in what it is and doesn't make any bones about it. It takes place in one of my favorite places NYU University in New York City. Econ major and preppy god Ethan is at the right place at the right time when "goth" girl Stephanie literally runs into his life. I loved these two, they both have made assumptions about each other from the first minute and spend the remainder of the book realizing how very wrong they were.Stephanie is guarded (for a very good reason) and hides from the world behind her dark make-up and tough clothing. I wanted to hug her and congratulate her on her survival instincts. I really felt for her and although at times I found myself screaming in frustration at her, I loved her all the same. Being a snarky and somewhat sarcastic New Yorker myself, I totally adored her sharp tongue and lack of self-consciousness.Ethan is well perfect, or so it seems. He's had every opportunity and experience that anyone could ask for, but he's still missing something. He has recently been exposed to betrayal by loved ones and is questioning everything and everyone. Still his faade is in place for everyone except Stephanie. Somehow she sees through his act and sees the real him. This leaves him unsteady and relieved. I loved his vulnerable side that seems to only show through around Stephanie.What starts out as a project, turns into reality. A fake relationship quickly takes on real feelings that create moments that took my breath away. I was given an uncorrected proof of which I cannot quote from and I'm so angry. These two have such sharp, intelligent banter that I ate up page after page as fast as I could. There were points that had me questioning where these two were going. Parts that introduced seriously douchey people and parts where I literally asked "Are you serious?" out loud.ISN'T SHE LOVELY is a wonderful read with a giant heart. It shows how a friend can be found in the most unlikely places, how love can grow and fill your heart when you least expect it. But mostly it screams that love in the end does not have a definitive picture. It can't be dressed up, made-over or faked. Love, when it's real is inescapable and completely worth it.Lauren Layne has created a world that's believable and real. A love story that fills you up and makes you feel good. Introduces two young adults that have love and hope and each other, which is more than most ever get. I've fallen in love with this very lovely story.