Highly Suspicious and Unfairly Cute
I loved reading this book. I haven't read a teenage romance story written so well. Talia Hibbert’s is witty, captivating, emotional, and funny. I also notice that Talia is dedicated to writing stories of darker-skinned Black women being wooed and loved outlaid, which is a much-needed representation in the current dating climate. This story is about two high school students, Bradley and Celine, who were best friends in childhood and turned into enemies and back into friends, maybe even more. The story takes place in English and Scotland, but for American readers, there's a glossary to help with the cultural references.
The book starts from Celine's perspective, and I love how the author uses italicized words to differentiate the character's internal dialogue and uses that to paint a fuller picture for the readers. The story jumps from the Male and Female main characters, so the reader has some insight into the character's thought patterns and behaviors that they are unaware of. Reading this story felt like watching a movie with cliffhangers and surprises that only the viewers see coming. The story was complex, involving mental health challenges like Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and abandonment issues. The characters also navigated divorce, peer pressure, family expectations, and educational transitions.
My favorite thing about this story is how cute and innocent it is. I am super annoyed by "teenage" stories that are overly sexualized, overly traumatizing, or inappropriate. This age-appropriate and adorable story shows kids excited to hold hands, have conversations, or kiss. I recommend reading this if you want something light-hearted, funny, and fun.
