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Reviewed by Paula Bell, Librarian, Wakatipu High School, Queenstown
Opening sentence
When the hell did I start thinking, Jax’s smile is charming.
The blurb promises a sweet swoony young adult romance and the book delivers.

It’s a sweet story told from 2 viewpoints; loud, dramatic and creative 17 year old Essie, and her older brother’s friend Jax. Misunderstandings and awkward teen dilemmas ensue when Jax moves into Essie’s family home. It’s a classic love/hate relationship as Jax learns that Essie is no longer his friend’s bratty little sister but a talented seamstress trying to establish a business which her parents regard as trivial, and Essie realises that Jax is not only annoying but also sensitive, empathetic, and disturbingly hot!

There is a minor storyline about sexual consent.

The book would appeal to teenagers who want an undemanding book which gives a little insight into teen relationships and emotions.
Publisher: GlitterInk Press
ISBN: 9781991180513
Format: Paperback
Publication: 2023
Ages: 13-17 years
Themes: Attraction, self-awareness, communication, family, consent.