Author: Huntley Fitzpatrick
Reading Level: YA
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Released: June 14th 2012
Review Source: Loaned
Available: Amazon
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Summary: (from goodreads) A gorgeous debut about family, friendship, first romance, and how to be true to one person you love without betraying another
"One thing my mother never knew, and would disapprove of most of all, was that I watched the Garretts. All the time.”
The Garretts are everything the Reeds are not. Loud, numerous, messy, affectionate. And every day from her balcony perch, seventeen-year-old Samantha Reed wishes she was one of them . . . until one summer evening, Jase Garrett climbs her terrace and changes everything. As the two fall fiercely in love, Jase's family makes Samantha one of their own. Then in an instant, the bottom drops out of her world and she is suddenly faced with an impossible decision. Which perfect family will save her? Or is it time she saved herself?
A dreamy summer read, full of characters who stay with you long after the story is over.
I can't even begin to tell you how flawed this story is. We have Samantha & Jase who have lived next door to each other for over ten years. In those ten years never once did they ever cross paths. But, that might have to do something with Samantha's mom. Mrs. Reeds has always kept Sam very sheltered & has told her to stay away from the Garrett's; the next door neighbors. (Who happen to be the only reason as to why I didn't give up on this story.) One night Jase happens to climb up to Samantha's balcony & they start talking. Over the course of the summer they get to know each other, fall in love, etc.
No real depth is added to My Life Next Door until the very end. Fitzpatrick didn't only throw in one, but two sub-plots-- Both could have been handled so much better. Especially since one of them had so much potential. So many issues are left unresolved by the time you get to the last page that once you're there you think to yourself REALLY!?! This is Fitzpatrick's debut novel so there is a lot of room for growth.
Andy you are not alone in not liking this book. I ended up having to DNF because it just seemed so unrealistic and irritated me to no end. I'm happy to finally see a review that somewhat reflects my thoughts!
ReplyDeleteI haven't had the chance to read this one yet but I could really do with a nice contemporary read. I'm sorry this one didn't work for you and I hope that I enjoy it when I get a chance to read it.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the great review!