Synopsis
Pixie and Levi haven't spoken in nearly a year when they find themselves working―and living―at the same inn in the middle of nowhere. Once upon a time, they were childhood friends. But that was before everything went to hell. And now things are... awkward.
All they want to do is avoid each other, and their past, for as long as possible. But now that they're forced to share a bathroom, and therefore a shower, keeping their distance from one another becomes less difficult than keeping their hands off each other. Welcome to the hallway of awkward tension and sexual frustration, folks. Get comfy. It’s going to be a long summer.
Publishing Paperback 13th January 2015
Review
When Clara came too me and offered me the choice between three books to read this cover drew my attention straight away! I do not usually like covers with just people on the cover but this cover is beautiful and perfect for the book. I was a little sceptical still as I do not read a lot of contemporary books and tend to stay away from new adult. However boy am I glad I did not pass this book up.
I read this in one sitting shushing everyone who spoke to me and ignoring everything I should not. The author's writing was moreish and beautiful to me almost elegant. The characters were just so right, even the odd ball side ones we meet along the way. I liked the difference between self doubting, anxious and self critical damaged Sarah (Pixie) and harsh, strong, smart, fun, witty protective Levi ( Leaves) who himself is broken through guilt. Their POV's were both strong enough not to have you wishing that the book was written from only just one. I loved how not only did we get an insight into each of their heads but that they were both flawed seeing things as we all do differently from the person sat next to us. Their fear, grief and guilt keeping themselves denying themselves of the one thing that could help them forgive, heal and move on. At times the constant pushing away did niggle me a bit and was tiresome but more from Pixie's side of things. However I do think in this kind of situation it was realistic. Some of the side characters were amazing I want more Jenna who wouldn't want a friend like her lol. Out of all of the book Levi is way out in front for my fave spot every girl needs a Levi as a friend or boyfriend.
This book had me on a emotional roller-coaster throughout. I went through all of them sadness, happiness, mild chuckles, anger and horror (Pixie's mum vile, vile and VILE). It is such a bitter sweet story at times and even though it is predictable that did not take anything away from me. I needed to hear/read their story, I needed too see it play out for them, root for them and cry with them. It' almost feels like were there alongside prying on what should be a private journey battling grief, finding themselves and each other. Learning to cope and heal is something we all have to do at one point or another, Moving on is not easy and Chelsea portrays this perfectly.
Perhaps not everyone's cup of tea but I would recommend this book too anyone who likes romance and new adult books. Perhaps even too those looking for something different or a bitter-sweet heart warming story. I am definitely going to continue this series and other books from the author. i might even try to step out of my YA comfort zone more often now :0
My Rating : I've found it so difficult too rate this book. At first my initial feeling was four but however I've found since finishing reading. Leaves and Pixie have stayed with me haunting my thoughts in a good way so I figure Four is just unfair. So five it is :)
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