What Happens Now - Jennifer Castle
Book Synopsis: "I know what it is to want something so badly, you feel like your cells aren’t properly bonded together without it. I also know what it’s like to get that something. And honestly, I’m still not sure which is worse..." Ari Logan is battling to win her war against depression and the dark night she hurt herself on purpose. It’s not easy: her best friend is drifting away, her mom’s emotionally checked out, and she spends her days playing caregiver to her handful of a half-sister, Danielle. But it’s summer, and anything is possible... That’s when Camden Armstrong steps onto the beach of Ari’s local swimming lake. At first, Ari quietly longs for Camden from afar, seeing in him everything she wants to be. When the two discover a true connection the following summer, Ari lets herself fall not just for the quirky and self-assured Camden but also his friends, tumbling into their world of independence, adventure, and shared sci-fi fandom. As Ari’s romantic dreams come true, she must unlock the mysteries of the very real and troubled boy behind her infatuation, while also struggling with her own demons, obligations, and loyalties.
Finally, a book without a female protagonist main character named Sam/Samantha!
Ari/Arianna Logan is hoping to have the summer of her dreams - preferably in the arms of her dream guy Camden Armstrong. Fortunately, her wish comes true and she gets everything she's ever wanted... well almost.
I didn't like Camden, or Eliza, or Max, or James... fine, I didn't really like anyone except for Ari, Dani, and her stepfather Richard.
Depression is one of the toughest subjects to write about - especially in a YA Fiction genre. You don't have to hide, you don't have to go it all alone, get help before things become even worse.
Experiencing heartbreak is something that everyone goes through, and I was thoroughly impressed with Jennifer Castle's way of representing it. Parents always tell their kids that having a boyfriend/girlfriend is only going to end in tears. Want to know the secret... they are absolutely right.
I'm desperately trying my best to finish my long list of TBR books on my shelf, and although I don't read "seasonally" or according to the current season, I have finally achieved my goal this year of reading 100 books - yes, I have broke the record and doubled my expectations by completing 200+ novels. Of course, I will be adding more books to that long TBR pile on Goodreads.com!
Rating: ★★★☆☆