Age of Protagonists / Sub-Genre
Heat Factor: Kisses only
Character Chemistry: It is obviously destiny because they like the same kind of ice cream.
Plot: Winnie thought her ex was her destiny, but now she doesn’t. Shenanigans ensue.
Overall: I was having a blast until supposedly responsible adults told this high schooler to put her college plans in jeopardy for a boy.
Once Upon a Con, Book #1
Heat Factor: Extremely chaste
Character Chemistry: They’re so texty texty cute. In person…¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Plot: Cinderella + You’ve Got Mail + fandoms
Overall: I’m not sure the “Aww” outweighs my rage at nearly every single character’s behavior
Heat Factor: So pure. Like, shy first kisses pure.
Character Chemistry: Off the charts.
Plot: Teen boy has no interest in dating, is dared by his peers to date anyone who asks. Other teen boy asks.
Overall: I am dying of the sweetness.
Hickville High, Book #4
Heat Factor: Innocent little high school kisses
Character Chemistry: This person looks into my eyes and I get all the tingles. I am not doing relationships right now. But the tingles…
Plot: Scottish actor embeds in rural Texas high school to understand his next role better, accidentally falls for local girl
Overall: It’s YA, so I shouldn’t, but I want to rant.
Heat Factor: Kisses only
Character Chemistry: More believable as antagonists than as teenagers in love
Plot: Enemies to lovers plus coming of age plus gentrification
Overall: I felt like I was a million years old while reading this book
