Review: I’m finding some delicious reads to devour, and Make it Count is certainly one of those
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 06 8, 2014
New Adult is a genre that is reasonably new to the scene, and combines some coming-of-age elements with increased sexuality and hopefully more mature characters than in YA.  While I’ve never been a big fan of the majority of storylines in this genre, I’m finding some delicious reads to devour, and Make it Count is certainly one of those.  Erickson brings characters and situations that are entirely plausible and adds an emotional element that draws readers in to the world she has created.Kat is delightfully refreshing with her interior voice being laden with confusion and self-doubt as she struggles to maintain appearances and grades.  When her new Statistics tutor turns out to be her jock boyfriend’s nerdy roommate, she is concerned that her secret struggle will become public.  Alec is the new tutor, and his best friend and roommate Max is Kat’s boyfriend.  Alec knows that the crush he has on Kat, and his curiosity about her odd study habits, the faade she uses around Max, and her reactions to HIM have him both guilty and confused.  His last and only relationship ended when his then girlfriend cheated on him, he’s still depressed and angry.Erickson takes the time to hint to readers about Kat’s learning issues long before anyone puts a name to it: and the determination and self-discoveries that Kat comes to as she struggles and finds ways to cope with her learning disability are testaments to her ability to withstand many difficulties. With a heart that is open and caring, she shares her empathy and sympathy without hesitation, it is only her innermost thoughts that she guards.These two have a ton of self-actualization to go through, and we are fortunate to find it in the capable plotting and descriptive writing: slowly but surely the truth of their meant-to-be connection is apparent to them, despite their quibbles.  Carrying a positive and heartfelt tone, even the moments of pain are well defined and easy to envision and feel.  Secondary characters are wonderfully integrated, from small snapshots to major players in major scenes, they all bring a sense of individuality and personality that plays well with or against our hero and heroine.If you are wanting a story that has some depth, but never loses the fun and romantic elements that will keep you turning the pages, look no further.I received an eArc copy of the title via Corvisiero Literary Agency for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.