Never Vacation with Your Ex: A Rollercoaster of Expectations and Emotions
As a book blogger, I’m always on the lookout for stories that resonate on a deeper level, and "Never Vacation with Your Ex" by Chloe Liese certainly caught my eye. The vibrant cover and the premise of a second-chance romance amidst the sun-soaked backdrop of Malibu promised a lighthearted escape. However, what I found beneath the surface was an exploration of internal conflicts and societal pressures that really struck a chord with me.
At first glance, Kaylee, the protagonist, doesn’t fit the mold of the typical likable, peppy teen we often see in YA romances. Instead, she embodies the struggles of a young woman trying to carve her own identity in the shadow of her mother’s Olympic legacy. The tension between legacy and individuality is palpable and genuinely relatable, especially for young athletes pushing themselves towards ambitious goals. Kaylee’s pursuit of a professional volleyball career is fraught with extra scrutiny, and Liese captures her internal strife beautifully.
One of the most compelling aspects of Kaylee’s journey is her raw honesty about the pressures she faces. While some readers might find her struggles whiny or privileged, I appreciate how Liese has her recognize these feelings without downplaying their significance. Kaylee’s commentary on social media, the pressure to appear perfect, and her complex relationship with her body are echoes of what many teens deal with today. It’s this authenticity that adds layers to her character and makes her struggles resonate.
Despite Kaylee’s internal battles often taking center stage, the romance with Dean does bring a delightful aspect to the narrative. Their chemistry is genuine and fun, although I did feel it somewhat overshadowed by Kaylee’s personal growth. The moments where Kaylee vocalizes her feelings towards Dean add depth to their rekindled relationship, but I couldn’t help but wish for more conversations with her mother, which felt somewhat rushed. In the grand scheme of things, though, the focus on her internal growth felt more thematically valuable.
Liese’s writing style is refreshing and engaging, with a conversational tone that allows readers to connect with Kaylee’s emotional journey. The pacing, particularly in the first half, flows smoothly, but there are moments where the themes might come across as repetitive. However, even throughout these passages, I found myself empathizing more deeply with Kaylee’s experiences.
For those who pick up "Never Vacation with Your Ex" expecting a straightforward romance, I urge you to approach it with an open mind. The rich themes of identity, societal pressure, and the complexity of young adulthood elevate it beyond your typical YA read. If you’ve ever felt the weight of expectations—whether from family, society, or yourself—this book beautifully captures that struggle.
In conclusion, I’d recommend this book to readers looking for a thoughtful exploration of a young woman’s journey navigating ambition and identity while still enjoying a fun romantic element. My overall rating? A solid 3.25 out of 5, rounded down to 3. It may not have been the light and fluffy read I initially expected, but it deeply impacted me nonetheless. Thanks to Penguin Random House Audio for the advance listening copy, and here’s hoping that Kaylee’s journey finds its way into the hearts of many more readers!
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