Review of The Breakup Artists by Adriana Mather
Isn’t there something inherently magical about a book that pulls you into its world, making you feel like you belong right alongside its characters? That’s exactly what The Breakup Artists by Adriana Mather did for me. I’ll admit, I approached this read with my usual skepticism towards contemporary romance; sometimes, it’s hard to get caught up in the predictable love stories that float around. However, Mather’s unique premise flipped the script, making me a believer once again. The moment I saw "I pull my sparkly purple notebook from my shoulder bag and plop down in August’s desk chair. ‘Ready?’" I was hooked.
What makes The Breakup Artists stand out in the crowded landscape of young adult fiction is its refreshing twist on friendship and romance. At the center of the story are Tiny (Valentine) and August, two best friends who run a secret business called Summer Love, Inc. Together, they concoct elaborate plans to break up toxic relationships, providing a juxtaposition to the romantic clichés we often see in literature. Their bond is palpable and wonderfully complex, making it easy to root for both of them as they navigate personal and professional challenges.
The heart of the narrative lies not only in the ups and downs of their breakup venture but also in the exploration of their characters. August is grieving the loss of his sister, and Tiny struggles with her own hidden family dramas. Mather expertly paints a picture of their lives on the Massachusetts coast, allowing readers to savor the lush imagery of classic New England summers. It feels as though you can practically smell the salt in the air and feel the warm sun on your skin. The depth of their friendship tugged at my heartstrings, reminding me of the rare connections we often take for granted—especially those between a guy and a girl that transcend mere romance.
Mather’s storytelling is both engaging and breezy, making for a delightful read that never felt rushed. The narrative flows effortlessly, and I found myself laughing, crying, and cheering for the characters as they pursued their dreams. It’s liberating to witness Tiny wielding her sparkly purple notebook, and for August to step into his own as “Holden” while helping Ella escape a toxic relationship. The intricacies of their schemes, complete with rules that dictate their approach, keep the reader invested and contribute to both comedy and tension.
One moment that resonated strongly with me was Tiny’s mantra of maintaining their cover: “Don’t fall for or get personally involved.” Isn’t that a lesson we could all learn? However, as the plot thickens and emotions run high, miscommunications arise, and we’re reminded how easily feelings can complicate even the most innocent intentions.
In the end, while Tiny and August may not have saved their business, they find a deeper appreciation for their friendship and themselves. Mather leaves readers with a sweet aftertaste of hope, growth, and the idea that it’s never too late for new beginnings—whether it’s about saving a friendship or moving on from heartbreak.
I truly found myself immersed in the world Mather created. I wholeheartedly rate The Breakup Artists 5 stars; it’s a delightful read for anyone who enjoys young adult romance that feels genuine and heartfelt. If you’re a fan of books that combine humor, warmth, and complex relationships, this one is absolutely for you. Adriana Mather has a knack for nailing that summertime New England vibe, delivering stories that are as engaging as they are relatable. So grab your sparkly notebook and dive into this charming tale; you won’t regret it!
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