Book Review: Love Points to You by [Author’s Name]
When I first stumbled across Love Points to You, the title alone sparked a sense of curiosity. As someone who loves art and has a soft spot for LGBTQ+ narratives, I was immediately drawn in. With the promise of vibrant characters, a dash of romance, and the exploration of personal growth, I knew this book had the potential to resonate with me. Thanks to NetGalley and Delacorte Romance for the ARC in exchange for an honest review; I’m thrilled to share my thoughts!
At its core, Love Points to You delves into the complexities of relationships—both familial and romantic. Our protagonist, Lynda, steps into a new chapter of her life as her father remarries and they move in with her future stepfamily. The emotional stakes are high as Lynda grapples with the grief of losing her mother while trying to form connections in this new, blended household. The author expertly captures the tension in Lynda’s predicament: wanting to protect her space and feelings yet craving acceptance from her new family.
Lynda’s passion for art is beautifully illustrated—not just as a hobby, but as a driving force behind her aspirations to attend RISD. Her digital drawing pad, affectionately named Henry, becomes a symbol of her creative freedom and identity. Naturally, when her younger cousin accidentally destroys it, the plot thickens. Lynda’s quest for a new iPad leads her to a deal with her schoolmate Angela, who requests Lynda’s artistic talents for her otome game. This partnership begins to blossom into something deeper, and I appreciate how the author navigates their dynamic with both tenderness and humor.
The characters really brought the story to life. Lynda, while initially relatable, had moments where her choices frustrated me, especially during crucial conflicts. It made me wonder if the author intended that complexity. Angela, on the other hand, felt a touch underdeveloped. Despite being smart and hard-working, I didn’t fully connect with her until later in the story. However, Lynda’s stepsister Josie surprised me; her struggles with family expectations and her musical ambitions were captivating, making her a standout for me.
I couldn’t help but smile at the relationship between Lynda and Angela. While their attraction seemed somewhat forced at first, their sweet interactions warmed my heart. Given the book’s cover and title, I was anticipating a bit more focus on romance, but what was there was truly delightful. The line, “‘Even the everyday stuff is a lot more colorful with you around,’” encapsulates the essence of their bond beautifully.
Writing style and pacing felt natural, allowing me to devour this story in a matter of hours. The humor infused throughout made the more serious themes easier to digest and contributed to a cozy reading experience.
In conclusion, while Love Points to You may not have reached the heights of perfection for me, it still left me enchanted. I recommend this book for anyone who enjoys heartfelt coming-of-age stories, especially those featuring LGBTQ+ protagonists. If you’re a fan of art, self-discovery, and the nuanced journey of blending families, dive into this vibrant world. I walked away not only entertained but also reflecting on the colorful connections we make in life—thank you, [Author’s Name], for this delightful read!