Jenny meets Chance for the very first time when she is assigned as his partner in their Junior Oral Communications class. But after they rescue a doomed assignment with one clever lie, the whole school is suddenly convinced that Little-Miss-Really-Likes-Having-A’s and the most scandalous heartbreaker in school have been best friends forever. It’s amazing how quickly a lie can grow―especially when you really, really want it to be the truth.
With Jenny, Chance can live the normal life he’s always kind of wanted. And with Chance, Jenny can have the exciting teen experiences that TV shows and movies have always promised. Through it all, they hold on to the fact that they are “just friends.” But that might be the biggest lie of all.
I’m a big fan of romance, but not so much contemporary, if that makes sense? I have come across the occasional contemporary romance book which has made me swoon, but for the most part, I really like books that have some kind of underlying issue going on, or books where the romance is really strong and you feel invested in the character’s relationship.
Just Friends drew me in by the beautiful cover, and though it wasn’t a book I flew through, it was gripping enough that I had this little voice in my head, telling me to go back and keep reading it at the end of each day.
What I Liked:
1 | I really liked how Chance had his own issues going on— it made the book all the more interesting.
2 | I also really liked Jenny. Her characterization was great and for a reserved character, she still managed to stand out a lot and make a great impression on me.
3 | I liked the pacing that this novel flowed at— it was perfect.
4 | I really enjoyed seeing Jenny navigate her ‘first relationship’ feelings. They are so real and relatable for people her age, and I think a lot of young readers could learn from her experience.
What I Disliked:
1 | It was a little bit cheesy at times. Or maybe I’m just getting old and bitter.
2 | I feel like the book was a little rushed at the end, and I felt like some things were unresolved. I mean, not important things, but I would have liked to know what Jenny’s mom thought of Jenny getting detention. I feel like she disappeared completely from the second half of the book. I also would have liked to see Levi’s reaction to Chance finally getting the girl, and the school’s reaction to a rumour becoming a reality.
Final Thoughts:
This book is really well suited to teenage readers— it’s something I would have particularly enjoyed in my teen years.
Tea Rating:
Sweet Tea | This book had all of the sweet, adorable romance!
Leave a Reply