I received this ARC from Publisher for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
By Your Side by Kasie West on January 31st 2017
Pages: 352
In this irresistible story, Kasie West explores the timeless question of what to do when you fall for the person you least expect. Witty and romantic, this paperback original from a fan favorite is perfect for fans of Stephanie Perkins and Morgan Matson.
When Autumn Collins finds herself accidentally locked in the library for an entire weekend, she doesn’t think things could get any worse. But that’s before she realizes that Dax Miller is locked in with her. Autumn doesn’t know much about Dax except that he’s trouble. Between the rumors about the fight he was in (and that brief stint in juvie that followed it) and his reputation as a loner, he’s not exactly the ideal person to be stuck with. Still, she just keeps reminding herself that it is only a matter of time before Jeff, her almost-boyfriend, realizes he left her in the library and comes to rescue her.
Only he doesn’t come. No one does.
Instead it becomes clear that Autumn is going to have to spend the next couple of days living off vending-machine food and making conversation with a boy who clearly wants nothing to do with her. Except there is more to Dax than meets the eye. As he and Autumn first grudgingly, and then not so grudgingly, open up to each other, Autumn is struck by their surprising connection. But can their feelings for each other survive once the weekend is over and Autumn’s old life, and old love interest, threaten to pull her from Dax’s side?
My Thoughts:
A book that takes place (at least in part) while locked in a library? I was so in! While this book wasn’t exactly what I was expecting, I enjoyed it.
I’m a sucker for the “misunderstanding” type romances. You know, where the main characters don’t like each other at first but then grudgingly come to understand and then maybe even care for one another? Loved that aspect of this book. Autumn and Dax learn a lot about themselves through getting to know one another and overcoming their preconceived notions. Plus, it was just super cute.
I also really appreciated the way Autumn’s anxiety was presented. I was sad for her that she felt she needed to hide it from her friends, but totally understood the desire to not stand out. I liked that her parents were involved and that Autumn was seeking the help she needed. Anxiety is no joke and it wasn’t presented as such in this book. Thankfully it also didn’t define Autumn’s character.
Overall, By Your Side is a quick and cute read. Not my favorite Kasie West book but still worth the time to read!
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