SYNOPSIS

Magnolia and BJ have known each other since they were younger. They dated once, and even though they aren’t together anymore, they’ve rediscovered their closeness and bond since. It’s hard not to when they run in the same rich socialite friend-group in London. Maybe now, they can heal their wounds from their past relationship and be together again.

What could happen?

RECAP AND REVIEW

This is the first book in a contemporary series of five books (so far). From my understanding there are three books about Magnolia and BJ’s journey from their perspective and the other two, so far, are from Daisy and her love interest’s perspective. I saw a video that these books flow better reading in order, and some context might be missing if you skip to only read Daisy’s or only Magnolia’s.

I have mixed feelings about this book. This is a will they, won’t they story where Magnolia and BJ know how much they affect the other, but can’t seem to figure out how to admit their feelings and make it work. There’s history and little trust. Both are petty, coping with their hurt by either intentionally making the other jealous with fake boyfriends to provide a buffer (Magnolia) or engaging in vices- sex, alcohol, and cocaine- as a distraction and getting caught (BJ).

I like the author’s writing style and some of the lines spoke to me, but the repetitious nature of BJ and Magnolia being together then not was annoying to read after a while. BJ messed up and Magnolia understandably struggles to forgive him and move on. He doesn’t provide her with closure. They have the same sort of conversation over and over again with no resolve and for me, I’m just like get over it or move on. Not to say their feelings weren’t valid, but this was dysfunctional as hell and I can’t believe their friends didn’t provide much input besides occasional snubbing and monitoring. They also seem somewhat self aware because they narrate their situation with an understanding of what’s going on. This had me thinking why are you both like this?

I’m not a fan of age gaps in contemporary stories when one of them is under 25, so the introduction of Tom was off putting at first for me, but I liked his character and he seemed like a great guy. I hated the Christian storyline, but I’m looking forward to his role in the next book. I also didn’t like all the fashion references, not only because I’m not a fashionista, but also because it was a mouthful and occurred frequently. I get it’s one of Magnolia’s quirks but reading it was annoying.

Despite my annoyance, I still enjoyed the book. What can I say? I’m no better than them and I enjoy mess. I still hated how it ended, but unfortunately I’m invested so I’m going to keep reading the series.

OVERALL

Overall, I give this 3 out of 5 stars. There were cute moments and the way Magnolia and BJ spoke about each other was endearing, despite the pettiness. I don’t know if it’s love or codependency or both, but it’s clear there are deep feelings between the two and hopefully, in the next books we’ll see them grow.