Book Review: The Summer I Found You by Jolene Perry

The Summer I Found You
Author: Jolene Perry
Reading Level: Young Adult
Genre: Contemporary
Released: March 1st 2014
Review Source: Albert Whitman Teen | NetGalley

All they have in common is that they're less than perfect. And all they're looking for is the perfect distraction.

Kate's dream boyfriend has just broken up with her and she's still reeling from her diagnosis of type 1 diabetes. Aidan planned on being a lifer in the army and went to Afghanistan straight out of high school. Now he's a disabled young veteran struggling to embrace his new life. When Kate and Aidan find each other neither one wants to get attached. But could they be right for each other after all?

I am not exactly sure how I feel toward this book. I liked it but didn’t. I know I liked the characters and their situations. I like how their relationship was built. But I think my issue was the back and forth between alternatives. Sometime I think this is necessary but sometimes it isn’t…

Kate's life isn't easy. Not only does she need to deal with high school drama and strict parents, but she also struggles in keeping her health in place. Recently heart-broken, Kate is in search for a distraction. And then she meets Aidan/Aiden, her best friend’s cousin.

Aidan/Aiden, story switches to one name to the other, is a very unique young man. Not only does he suffer from PSTD but he is one arm short. His family tends to avoid talking about this and ignore bringing anything that will make him uncomfortable. This frustrates him and he, as well, is in search for a distraction.

What I love about Kate, is the fact that she isn't afraid to ask Aidan/Aiden about his feelings. Aidan/Aiden is the perfect distraction for her. After being dump by her boyfriend, he is always there for her when she needs him. Yet, she is keeping a secret from him. I found this very childish of her, but then again, I don't blame her. She only wants to feel normal. But how long can Kate and Aidan/Aiden keep each other distracted from real life? From the truth?

Overall, The Summer I Found You is an okay story. I liked how the main characters learn from each other. In the search of a distraction, Kate and Aidan/Aiden find true love. Although, this is not a summer read, as this book doesn't take place in summer, The Summer I Found You was very realistic and well paced.