No one in her real life knows about her online activity and Jane wants to keep things that way. But when a new girl moves to town and reveals that she's a follower of Anastasia's writings, Jane is put in an awkward position. The girl confesses online that she has an interest in Jane's best friend Leo. While Leo and Jane are only friends, the outside threat makes Jane realize that her feelings for Leo are stronger than she's ready to accept.
On the face of it, this novel doesn't offer much that is really new. It has all the tropes -- the false crush, the mean girl competitor, the inevitable unveiling of Jane's secret life, and soulmates-in-denial -- and doesn't attempt any surprises. So, why did I enjoy it? I suppose because who doesn't like two lovers finding each other in the end (after all, it worked fine for Shakespeare on multiple occasions)? But really it's the characters that make this novel. Jane and the others are articulate but still very much adolescent. Their jealousies and insecurities are worn on their sleeves for the reader to clearly see and we don't waste much time with miscommunications. That allows for some pretty quick resolutions, but it's a relief not having to drown in lots of invented drama. These kids can pretty much invent enough on their own!
So, while the story is formulaic, this novel gets a boost by crafting relatable characters from whom readers can learn some lessons without being preached to. And for those who already know the curriculum, there is the delight in a well-written account.
No comments:
Post a Comment