The publisher kindly sent me a physical copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Seventeen-year-old Abby Turner’s summer isn’t going the way she’d planned. She has a not-so-secret but definitely unrequited crush on her best friend, Cooper. She hasn’t been able to manage her mother’s growing issues with anxiety. And now she’s been rejected from an art show because her work “has no heart.” So when she gets another opportunity to show her paintings, Abby isn’t going to take any chances.
Which is where the list comes in.
Abby gives herself one month to do ten things, ranging from face a fear (#3) to learn a stranger’s story (#5) to fall in love (#8). She knows that if she can complete the list, she’ll become the kind of artist she’s always dreamed of being.
But as the deadline approaches, Abby realizes that getting through the list isn’t as straightforward as it seems … and that maybe — just maybe — she can’t change her art if she isn’t first willing to change herself.
Love, Life and the List Review
I’m a total broken record at this point, but fluffy contemporary romances are my favourite! Since this is my first Kasie West book, I was hoping to enjoy it. I enjoyed it so much, that I’ve found a new go-to contemporary author.
Love, Life and the List follows Abby, who’s summer is not going the way she wanted. She creates a list of things to complete to help her anxiety and to get outside of her comfort zone!
It also happens to be the first of three companion novels where the characters will crossover!
Abby is a fun main character but I absolutely adore her best friend Cooper. I love the witty banter between them, which makes it so easy to fall in love with them. They definitely take the reader on a crazy ride.
Another great thing is the relationship between Abby and her Grandfather. I think it’s so sweet and adds a really sensitive side to the book. Since I’m really close with my Grandfather, I couldn’t help but relate.
Plus, their sarcastic conversations always brings a smile to my face. It’s very similar to my relationship with my Grandfather!
Another thing I enjoyed in the book is creating a list to change the way we see the world or how we approach something. After creating the list and following through, Abby’s life really changes. I think it teaches us that we always need perspective. And going out of our comfort zone can be a good thing!
The book focuses on anxiety, but I wish it was handled a bit better. I just wanted a bit more detail – especially in relation to both Abby and her mother.
However, I do appreciate the fact that Kasie West includes anxiety representation in this book. We need more of it in young adult books!
Overall, I really enjoyed Love, Life and the List. While it was my first Kasie West book, it certainly won’t be my last.
I highly recommend this to anyone looking for a light and fluffy read. Plus, it’s perfect for those who enjoy the friends to lovers trope. I’m really looking forward to reading the next to companion novels!
Rating: ★★★★☆
Favourite Quote
You bring me down to earth and I make you dream big.
About the Author
Kasie West lives with her family in central California, where the heat tries to kill her with its 115-degree stretches. She graduated from Fresno State University with a BA degree that has nothing to do with writing.
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[…] I really love this book. So far, it is my favourite Kasie West book and I’ve honestly enjoyed every one of her books. While I still have several more of her backlist to read, this one is sitting at the […]