Wayward Son by Rainbow Rowell

Wayward Son by Rainbow Rowell
Release Date - September 24, 2019

Publisher Website - Raincoast Books

Publisher Social Media - Twitter
Pages -  356 pages
**purchased**

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

The story is supposed to be over.

Simon Snow did everything he was supposed to do. He beat the villain. He won the war. He even fell in love. Now comes the good part, right? Now comes the happily ever after…

So why can’t Simon Snow get off the couch?

What he needs, according to his best friend, is a change of scenery. He just needs to see himself in a new light…

That’s how Simon and Penny and Baz end up in a vintage convertible, tearing across the American West.

They find trouble, of course. (Dragons, vampires, skunk-headed things with shotguns.) And they get lost. They get so lost, they start to wonder whether they ever knew where they were headed in the first place…

With Wayward Son, Rainbow Rowell has written a book for everyone who ever wondered what happened to the Chosen One after he saved the day. And a book for everyone who was ever more curious about the second kiss than the first. It’s another helping of sour cherry scones with an absolutely decadent amount of butter.

Come on, Simon Snow. Your hero’s journey might be over – but your life has just begun.

If Carry On was about being the 'chosen one' and what that entailed Wayward Son is about the after. It questions what comes after you have fulfilled your life's purpose. It captures that feeling of emptiness when something that is such a part of you is over. Simon has no focus because he doesn't know who he is if he is not 'Simon Snow'. He is so adrift in his despair and depression that he is barely recognizable as the hero we met in the first book. This fact makes Wayward Son a worthy follow up to Carry On in that we see our characters and their world from a new perspective.

Those wanting a fun road trip read will find that within these pages. It is an adventure that spans across the United States which gives the story a different feel. The spells that are used are more American. This however is a book that is primarily focused on giving the characters space and time to be fleshed out and to deal with their trauma.

In Baz Rainbow Rowell captures the ache of seeing your loved one hurting. Baz doesn't know how to reach Simon but he can feel him drifting further and further away. Both guys feel this widening distance but are at a loss of how to fix it. There was a line that I felt perfectly captures what Baz is feeling:

“Simon Snow, it hurts to look at you when you’re this happy. And it hurts to look at you when you’re depressed. There’s no safe time for me to see you, nothing about you that doesn’t tear my heart from my chest and leave it breakable outside my body.”

The romance between Baz and Simon is what pulsed the strongest in this story. There are these poetic lines like the one above that resonate like cat nip to readers like myself who have fallen for their love story.  Her writing especially shines in those grand romantic passages. She understands Baz's voice so well and that made his parts my absolute favourites.

As previously mentioned Simon is in a dark place. He is dealing with all his trauma and hurt by not dealing with it. This book is all about how he comes to terms with his issues. How he learns to cope and heal. It allows Simon's to grow and change in this way that felt really earned. His support system is shown as being a vital part of what makes him feel safe.  Simon's journey felt authentic and his struggles are going to resonate with people. There may not be as much magical wonderment in this book but I believe it is to the betterment of the character development and allowing things that happen to have consequences.

Wayward Son is a story of afters. It is the story of carrying on when you feel you can't any longer. It is about falling to pieces and finding yourself again. It is about redefining who you are on your own terms. It offers the next, often unexamined, chapter in the 'chosen one' story  and I cannot wait to see what waits for Simon and the gang next.

Carry On by Rainbow Rowell

Carry On by Rainbow Rowell
Release Date - October 6, 2015
Publisher Website - Raincoast Books

Publisher Social Media - Twitter
Pages -  522 pages
My Rating - 4/5
**purchased**

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

Simon Snow is the worst Chosen One who's ever been chosen.

That's what his roommate, Baz, says. And Baz might be evil and a vampire and a complete git, but he's probably right.

Half the time, Simon can't even make his wand work, and the other half, he starts something on fire. His mentor's avoiding him, his girlfriend broke up with him, and there's a magic-eating monster running around, wearing Simon's face. Baz would be having a field day with all this, if he were here — it's their last year at the Watford School of Magicks, and Simon's infuriating nemesis didn't even bother to show up.

Carry On - The Rise and Fall of Simon Snow is a ghost story, a love story and a mystery. It has just as much kissing and talking as you'd expect from a Rainbow Rowell story - but far, far more monsters.

This is a chosen one story. It's exactly what you would expect a Rainbow Rowell chosen one story to be like. Fans of Fangirl and those who loved the fanfiction parts in particular, will recognize that voice with these pages. It's both a love letter to the stories that inspired it and something entirely its own.

Rainbow Rowell goes for emotion and nostalgia over intricate plot in this one. It's a simple, straight forward story that allows the reader to get lost in what the book is making them feel. It also looks at the genre this book is an homage to and points out the well known paths they must tread.

Simon, the main character, is insufferable at times but in a lovable, recognizable way. As someone who would occasionally get frustrated with Harry when he let his own hype go to his head, I found myself with similar feelings for Simon. I loved that Simon was written as imperfect. The story being told demands it, but the character also works better as a result.

The fact that magic is conjured with spoken words or phrases that have strong pop cultural significance was a delightful touch. For a story that celebrates fandoms in such an loud way this detail folded into the story perfectly. It was an element of the world building that I felt really worked to enhance the story. The power of words is undeniable and this story embraces that fully.

The romance is, surprisingly, sweet. There were moments I found myself swooning over some of passages in the Baz sections of the book. Him talking about Simon may even be better than the kissing scenes. There is nothing like longing when conveyed perfectly and Rainbow Rowell captures that longing and makes it look effortless.

The side characters are all pretty fascinating. I wanted to know more about Penny and Agatha in particular. Agatha had, in my opinion, the more interesting story arc after Simon and Baz. Following her journey was fascinating and I wouldn't mind an entire book or series about a character going through what she goes through. I wanted it explored and flushed out more because the idea is intriguing. I also loved Baz's Aunt so much!

My only slight issue with this book is the pacing. It, for me, really only picked up once Baz makes his appearance. Baz is, hands down, the best part of this novel in so many ways. His snark and voice were exactly what this book needed. I also felt the book was a bit uneven in terms of the ending. It felt rushed in a way that I cannot really put my finger on. It felt like parts of the story were missing to make it feel whole. It's an otherwise enjoyable read and I am not sure if others would even feel the same way.

A perfect book to ignite some Harry Potter nostalgia. It's a book that I predict will not be for everyone. If the fanfiction parts of Fangirl were not your thing than this will not be either. However, if you love stories about whimsical worlds, main characters who are chosen to save the world, and a really great romance than I would recommend picking up this one.

Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell

Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell
Release Date - September 10, 2013
Publisher Website - Raincoast Books

Publisher Social Media - Twitter
Pages -  438 pages
My Rating - 4.5/5
**received from the publisher for an honest review**

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

A coming-of-age tale of fanfiction, family and first love

CATH IS A SIMON SNOW FAN. Okay, the whole world is a Simon Snow fan... But for Cath, being a fan is her life--and she's really good at it. She and her twin sister, Wren, ensconced themselves in the Simon Snow series when they were just kids; it's what got them through their mother leaving.

Reading. Rereading. Hanging out in Simon Snow forums, writing Simon Snow fanfiction, dressing up like the characters for every movie premiere.

Cath's sister has mostly grown away from fandom, but Cath can't let go. She doesn't want to.

Now that they're going to college, Wren has told Cath that she doesn't want to be roommates. Cath is on her own, completely outside of her comfort zone. She's got a surly roommate with a charming, always-around boyfriend; a fiction-writing professor who thinks fanfiction is the end of the civilized world; a handsome classmate who only wants to talk about words...and she can't stop worrying about her dad, who's loving and fragile and has never really been alone

For Cath, the question is: Can she do this? Can she make it without Wren holding her hand? Is she ready to start living her own life? And does she even want to move on if it means leaving Simon Snow behind? 

When Fangirl was released it was surrounded by hype. I constantly heard how amazing it was and how much everyone loved it. The buzz had the dual effect of making me want to read it and making me set it aside until I could read it without all the background noise that surrounded it. I am thrilled to say that this love letter to fanfiction lived up to all the praise.

Fanfiction is often looked at negatively by those outside of it. This novel presents those who love it as passionate, driven, creative, and dedicated. It showcases the hard work that goes into writing fanfiction and how valuable it can be in sharpening writing skills and finding your voice as a writer. It is also a way for fans to not only express their love of something but allows them to connect with other fans. The feeling of fandom is woven throughout everything and how it connects people who love the same thing. It's a powerful feeling and one that is, sadly, often dismissed as frivolous or silly. This shows that it is way more complex than that.

The dynamic of growing up as seen through the prism of the Cath and Wren relationship was fascinating. The are growing at different speeds and that takes it toll on their connection but the love they have for each other is never in question. Seeing the ways relationships change with the extra element of them being twins really heightened everything for me. All of the emotions were felt a little more strongly and that is everything I could hope for as a reader. Their relationship being a central focus felt natural to me because it is so ingrained with the fanfiction part of the story. I really liked how authentic their bond felt. I recognized parts of my own feelings towards my sisters within these pages and how the characters related to each other.

The romance is tentative and sweet. It matches who Cath is perfectly. She is socially awkward and withdrawn. She struggles to trust people and let them in. This is reflected in the romance that she embarks on. It is a gradual build but one that has a worth while payoff in the end. It feels more authentic because it is allowed time to breath and grow. The love interest is also pretty adorable and kind which helps immensely with becoming invested in the romance that is being explored.

The novel begins to have a conversation about the ways in which family trauma, such as divorce, can leave an impact. Both Cath and Wren are dealing with their mom leaving in very different ways but it impacted them just the same. This combined with how much Cath worries about her father make the family dynamic vital to the story. It, at times, feels even more important than the fanfiction element. It drives Cath in so many ways and moves the plot forward. I, in fact, wish it had been delved into just a little bit more. It felt unfulfilled in some ways but I immensely enjoyed the look at the messy, complex family dynamics that were offered.

My only minor quibble with this story is the ending. It felt a little rushed compared to the pacing of the rest of the novel. It didn't mesh as fully with the story I had previously read. It has a decent, even satisfying, ending but it didn't quite much the level of what came before it.

Fangirl is not just a love letter to fandom but a love letter to those who embrace it. It's a sweet coming of age story that will resonate with anyone who has ever been passionately obsessed with something. If you're a fan of young adult contemporary novels, and somehow managed to miss this one, I recommend checking it out.

Eleanor and Park by Rainbow Rowell

Eleanor and Park by Rainbow Rowell
Release Date – Feburary 26, 2013
Publisher Website -  St Martin's Press/Raincoast Books Canada
Publisher Social Media -  Twitter
Pages - 325 pages
My Rating- 4/5
**borrowed from fellow blogger**

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

"Bono met his wife in high school," Park says.
"So did Jerry Lee Lewis," Eleanor answers.
"I’m not kidding," he says.
"You should be," she says, "we’re sixteen."
"What about Romeo and Juliet?"
"Shallow, confused, then dead."
''I love you," Park says.
"Wherefore art thou," Eleanor answers.
"I’m not kidding," he says.
"You should be."

Set over the course of one school year in 1986, ELEANOR AND PARK is the story of two star-crossed misfits – smart enough to know that first love almost never lasts, but brave and desperate enough to try. When Eleanor meets Park, you’ll remember your own first love – and just how hard it pulled you under.

Outcasts, romance, and mixed tapes. Eleanor and Park seems to have everything of a cute 80's romance movie. However, there is a dark undertone to this touching story about finding yourself, falling in love, and discovering things for the first time. 

The nostalgia factor is high for anyone who grew up in the 80's (or had a sibling who was a teen in the 80's). It creates a warm, fuzzy feeling that endeared me to the characters right away. I was heavily influenced by my older sister, as I was quite young in the 80's, so the feeling reminded me of growing up. It created instant familiarity. I think the themes in the story are timeless though, and will very much appeal to today's teens as well.

Rainbow Rowell's writing is full of heart. She infuses that into her characters. It's them that shine the brightest in this story. Every single amount of praise you've heard about Rainbow's writing is fully deserved, and I have  a feeling her fan base is only going to continue to grow as more books are released.

Mixed with the nostalgia of the 80's was reminder of being a teenager. It brought to mind whispered conversations on the phone with boys while I was babysitting, that initial intoxication of first love, and the rush of discovering yourself. It captures this part of a being a teenager effortlessly and in a way that I haven't felt in a book in a long time. It's the first time you felt that emotional 'click' with someone that understood you in a way that nobody had before.

A lot is made out of the fact that these two characters are not the typical of ones that you find in this genre. They are both awkward, outcasts, and different. If not for the fact that they share a seat together on the bus it's debatable whether or not they would have even interacted with each other in the first place. Coming together broadens their worlds and allows them to step into themselves in a way that they were scared of before. It puts them on a path to discover who they are, even if it's just in that moment.

I swooned at the adorable swap of mix tapes, and the tenderness in which Park cares for Eleanor. He is her rock in the chaotic mess that is her home life. Eleanor's living situation is heartbreaking, and intense. The story is darker than expected and portrays everything with a realism that is crushing. Park has his own issues with family, and his are dealt with with the same carefulness that Eleanor's situation is handled.

A great mixture of romance, humour, coming of age, and two outcasts helping each other and falling in love. While I may not have fangirled as hard as other reviews, this one is a more introspective, nostalgic read with characters who work their way into your heart.

New To My Book Closet

It's that time of the week again. Time to show you what bookish goodies made their way into my home and book closet (to be saved from the evil book eating cat monster named Aria). This is inspired by the various "mailbox" posts out there (eg. In My Mailbox by The Story Siren, and Stacking the Shelves by Tynga's Reviews). 

Lots of exciting things this week!

First for review I received two books from Random House Canada

Just What Kind of Mother Are You? by Paula Daly (Goodreads)

Someday, Someday, Maybe by Lauren Graham (Goodreads)

I have heard Just What Kind Of Mother Are You has been compared to Gone Girl (which I loved) so I am eager to start this one. Someday, Someday, Maybe sounds really cute. I am looking forward to a fun contemporary to end off the month with.

I borrowed from Emilie (Emilie's Book World) the following

Eleanor and Park by Rainbow Rowell (Goodreads)

Friday Night Lights Season One

I keep hearing  how amazing Eleanor and Park is so I had to borrow it from Emilie and read it for myself. Hoping to fit it in soon.

I kept hearing how amazing Friday Night Lights is, and it's true. Every amazing thing you've heard is true. I adore Riggins, and Matt. The coach and his family. The entire team. The series surprised me by making me teary in the first episode, and actually caring about the outcome of a football game. #ClearEyesFullHeartsCantLose

Happy Weekend and Happy Reading!