Book Review: I Love You S’more by Anna Desombre
There’s something about summer camp stories that always draws me in—maybe it’s the nostalgia of ball games, late-night bonfires, and the sweet thrill of first crushes. So when I saw I Love You S’more by Anna Desombre on NetGalley, I was absolutely eager to dive into its pages, especially after thoroughly enjoying her previous work, I Think I Love You. However, while this book certainly weaves a charming tale about friendships and evolving relationships, it didn’t quite hit the high notes I was hoping for.
At the heart of the story is Ivy, a 15-year-old navigating the fallout of a significant breakup with her ex-girlfriend, Ally, who herself is a celebrity. The uniqueness of this setup drew me in immediately, and I appreciated the honest way Ivy reflects on their relationship’s perceived lack of seriousness due to their age. However, as a 20-year-old reader, I found it challenging to feel the emotional weight of their breakup, especially since we’re thrown into the aftermath without much backstory. Ivy’s relationship with Ally felt more like an outline rather than a fully fleshed-out connection, which made it tough to engage deeply with her character or her heartbreak.
Desombre’s portrayal of Ivy is relatable; her struggles with her family dynamics and the ups and downs of young love resonated with me. Ivy’s relationship with her sister is particularly well-crafted and adds depth to her character. While I liked Ivy, I couldn’t help but wish for more from the supporting cast, especially Rynn. Their budding romance had potential, yet it felt overshadowed by Ivy’s lingering feelings for Ally. The pacing left me wanting more time for their relationship to develop, as the rush to wrap things up felt a bit jarring.
One standout element was the humor woven into the narrative, especially through side characters like Fitz, whose antics provided comic relief and served as a foil to Ivy’s more serious moments. The campers are a delightful addition, bringing a layer of middle school drama that felt both fresh and familiar, though sometimes a bit tedious.
Amid the youthful hijinks, there emerges a poignant theme regarding how we discuss dating and relationships with younger generations. A memorable quote towards the end particularly struck me, reaffirming the importance of these conversations, which often get missed in narratives aimed at younger readers. It’s moments like these that elevate the story and give it a sense of purpose.
Despite my reservations, I would say that I Love You S’more still delivers a cute, enjoyable read—especially for a younger audience discovering love and friendship for the first time. Desombre’s talent shines through, even if this particular story didn’t resonate with me as much as I had hoped. I believe younger teens will find comfort and relatability in Ivy’s experiences, making it a valuable addition to anyone’s summer reading list.
Ultimately, while I walked away from this book with a mix of opinions, I’m grateful for the journey it offered—reminding me of the richness and complexity of love in all its forms. If you’re looking for a light summer read that captures the essence of youthful exploration, I Love You S’more might just be the perfect choice.
Discover more about I Love You S’more on GoodReads >>