Review: A Complex, Fun Romance
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 06 13, 2014
I was introduced to this author by a friend and received an advanced copy of 'The Same But Different' in exchange for an honest review.Normally, I wouldn’t pick up a contemporary romance with such a youngish heroine and story vibe, but I’m glad I did read this book. It was surprisingly complex and the sub-plots were well-balanced. I remembered being twenty-five and identified strongly with Cady’s sense of responsibility to her family while trying to let her fun, free-spirited side break free. I also liked that this novel was written in Cady’s point-of-view only, it allowed me to really follow her adventure and growth in a refreshing way. (Not that there aren’t other single p-o-v romances out there, it just really suited this style story).I might be picky and say that it was a bit too coincidental in places, mainly early on when Cady meets Reid the first time in the cafe, and then the next day she discovers he’s part of the flash mob as well. Also that Cady and Shelby’s biological father happened to live in California (where they were traveling) but that point did turn out to be a necessary connection in the story.This romance has a lot of sexual tension and flirting, but no visual love scenes. This suits the slow development of the relationship and makes the emotional connection between Cady and Reid very honest, I think. I would’ve liked a passionate scene at the end maybe, but it’s not something that turns me off certain series’ or authors. I will definitely read more of Ms. Clarke’s books. :)Overall, a layered story that’s a bit of a nostalgic trip for readers over thirty, and a familiar, fun one for those finding their way in their twenties.