Come As You Are: A Heartfelt Journey Through the Highs and Lows of Friendship and Self-Discovery
When I first encountered Dahlia Adler’s Come As You Are, I was instantly drawn in by its stunning cover and intriguing premise. What I expected to be a light-hearted young adult story turned out to be a raw and gut-wrenching exploration of friendship, heartbreak, and the quest for authenticity. This novel isn’t just a tale about navigating high school; it’s a poignant reminder of the importance of being true to oneself, a lesson I wish I had during my own teenage years.
Come As You Are introduces us to Everett "Evie" Riley, a character who quickly stole my heart. After facing betrayal from those she trusted most, Evie transfers to Camden Academy, hoping for a fresh start. The dual burdens of a broken heart and the confusion of her identity are palpable; Evie embodies the struggles many of us faced as teenagers. Her desire to shed her former self and embrace a new, more daring persona is both relatable and inspiring. I found myself cheering her on from the sidelines as she navigated the complexities of new friendships and heartbreak.
Salem Grayson, Evie’s charismatic dormmate, added another layer to the narrative. Initially quiet, he gradually reveals a rich backstory that transforms him from a misfit to Evie’s partner in crime. Their banter is simply delightful; it had me laughing out loud while also swooning at their undeniable chemistry. Through their friendship, the book beautifully illustrates the message that while friends may come and go, that one true connection can change everything. Evie’s reflection, “Friends are not the easiest for me to come by, and this time around, I want the ones I make to stick,” resonated deeply with me, as finding those rare gems of friendship is indeed a treasure.
Adler’s writing style is both engaging and immersive. With a pace that pulls you in, I found myself devouring pages, often staying up far too late. Her vivid descriptions brought Camden Academy to life, making it feel like a character in its own right. The incorporation of a musical playlist throughout the narrative added an extra layer, emphatically connecting the themes of the book with the soundtracks of our lives.
Notable quotes linger in my mind long after I put the book down. “Fuck it. I have worked too hard at becoming a badass to stop going for what I want now,” perfectly encapsulates Evie’s transformation and serves as an empowering mantra for readers. The layers of emotion in this story—heartbreaking experiences intertwined with moments of joy—left me both misty-eyed and hopeful.
In conclusion, Come As You Are is a heartfelt exploration of self-discovery and resilience, wrapped in the complexities of youth. I believe it will resonate with both high school students and adults who have been through the tumultuous journey of finding themselves. If you’re someone grappling with friendships or identity, or simply seeking a novel that echoes your own experiences, I can’t recommend this book enough. It changed my perspective on the importance of authentic connections, and I’m so grateful that Dahlia Adler wrote this beautiful story. Do yourself a favor and grab a copy when it releases on May 27th, 2025—your heart will thank you.
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