Lola and the Boy Next Door
85. Stephanie Perkins, Lola and the Boy Next Door
I received this book through the LibraryThing Early Reviewers program.
Lola Nolan has always been attracted to the outrageous, whether it be a colorful costume or an older musician boyfriend. Her overprotective parents aren’t too happy about her dating a 22-year-old when she’s only 17, but overall Lola is happy with her life; happy, that is, until the Bell family moves back into the house next door. Lola has an uncomfortable history with Cricket Bell, the handsome boy next door with constant energy and a knack for inventing gadgets. Now Cricket seems interested in her, and she’s struggling to maintain balance between her current relationship and the possibility of reviving an old friendship. Will Lola be able to embrace an uncertain future while still remaining true to herself?
I’ve been dying to read this book ever since loving Anna and the French Kiss, and I’m happy to say that Lola does not disappoint. The central romance is both sweet and intense, and Perkins does have a knack for creating swoon-worthy heroes! I can’t help nitpicking about a couple of things, but that’s only because my expectations were so high. First of all, it’s revealed pretty early on that Lola has two gay dads, which was a bit jarring for me, especially before I figured out the rest of her family history. Also, Lola has a best friend named Lindsey, but she’s barely there in the story, and I almost felt like she was unnecessary; I wish her character had been developed more. On the plus side, though, Anna and Étienne both make an appearance in this book, which was exciting! (You certainly don’t need to read Anna to follow this book, though.) Overall, I really liked this book and devoured it very quickly. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a good romance!
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ALSO, I enjoyed this book so much that I will soon be hosting a giveaway of this ARC, because I am so buying the hardcover when it comes out in September! It might not be for a couple weeks, since the bar exam is imminent, but stay tuned!