Everything We Never Said: A Raw Dive into Grief and Consequence
When I first laid eyes on Everything We Never Said by [Author’s Name], I was immediately drawn in by the premise—a dark romantic thriller that dives into the complexities of grief and betrayal. As the book unfolded, I anticipated an unforgettable exploration of young adult emotions, but that anticipation soon turned into a mixed bag of emotions and thoughts. Thank you, Penguin Teen, for my copy of this intriguing story! #Penguinteenpartner
At its core, Everything We Never Said follows seventeen-year-old Ella as she grapples with the immense weight of grief after losing her best friend, Hayley, in a tragic car accident. The opening chapters set a haunting tone, painting a vivid picture of a girl paralyzed by her sorrow, unable to find solace in anything but her memories. However, just a few chapters in, Ella’s focus pivots—unexpectedly falling for Hayley’s boyfriend, Sawyer, in a way that left me both frustrated and bewildered.
I found myself questioning Ella’s motivations and decisions throughout the story. How could a girl so deep in mourning suddenly prioritize a romantic interest over her best friend’s memory? There were moments where this shift felt disingenuous, particularly when Ella, who initially couldn’t muster the strength to change clothes, became entirely consumed by her attraction to Sawyer. Her impulsive decisions often came off as selfish rather than a genuine exploration of love and loss, leaving me struggling to sympathize with her at times.
Sawyer’s character was equally inconsistent, initially presented as the perfect boyfriend before morphing into a darker persona influenced by his own childhood trauma. These character shifts could have added depth, yet they often seemed jarring and underdeveloped. I wish the author had introduced Sawyer’s complexities earlier in the narrative rather than relying on abrupt twists that felt forced.
One character that stood out for me was Sawyer’s mother—her complexity and care offered a refreshing contrast to the darker elements surrounding Ella and Sawyer. The need for mental health support in the aftermath of trauma echoes throughout the book, suggesting a conversation that is crucial yet often overlooked in contemporary YA literature.
While the exploration of trauma runs deep, I felt that some themes could have been navigated with more sensitivity. The weight of these topics in a young adult setting sometimes felt overwhelming, even though they were valid and necessary. I appreciated the moments where the narrative sparked genuine resonance, but those highs were often clouded by the inconsistencies in character arcs and pacing.
As for the plot twists? Most were predictable. Having read my fair share of thrillers, I anticipated several revelations before they landed—though the unexpected twist of Ella’s pregnancy did manage to catch me off guard. For a younger audience, these twists may still pack a punch, but seasoned thriller readers like myself may find them less surprising.
In conclusion, I did not entirely dislike Everything We Never Said. Its exploration of grief, trauma, and teenage relationships holds potential, but the execution left me yearning for more depth and authenticity. Fans of YA literature grappling with complex emotions around loss, and those who enjoy dark romantic thrillers may still find value in this story. Despite my mixed feelings, it is a worthwhile read that compels discussion around the heavy themes it raises, even if it occasionally stumbles along the way.
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