An Engaging Exploration of Friendship and Romance: A Review of A Good Book (Sunday Morning) by Jewel E. Ann
As a self-proclaimed sucker for a good friends-to-lovers story, A Good Book (Sunday Morning) by Jewel E. Ann caught my attention right from the start. There’s something incredibly nostalgic about the naiveté of first love, and the fresh perspective this tale brings to the familiar trope swept me into a whirlwind of emotions. Set against the backdrop of college life in the late ’80s, I found myself reminiscing about my own youthful crushes and the intricate dance between friendship and romance.
The story revolves around Gabriella "Gabby" Jacobson, who embarks on her freshman year with the singular goal of winning over Matthew Cory—her sister’s ex-boyfriend. She’s lucky, though. Her best friend, Ben, is also attending college with her, acting as both a confidant and a guide in matters of love. This sets up an intriguing and somewhat complicated dynamic, especially when Gabby finds herself in need of kissing lessons and discovers hidden feelings between her and Ben.
What sets A Good Book apart is how it navigates the tangled emotions of young adulthood. The confusion of infatuation, loyalty, and self-discovery resonate deeply within Gabby’s journey. At the heart of it all is Ben, who’s been in love with Gabby for years, and his unrequited feelings add a layer of tension and intrigue to the narrative. The duality of their relationship—best friends navigating romance—made me invested in their fates, leading me to root for them even as I held onto the hope that Gabby would come to realize who her true feelings were for.
Jewel E. Ann’s writing style is captivating, characterized by a blend of humor, emotional depth, and relatable dialogue. The pacing feels just right—allowing moments of tension to build between Gabby and Ben, only to be interrupted by the comedic clumsiness that often accompanies young love. One highlight for me was a moment where Gabby declares to Ben, “You are my f***ing dream.” It’s bold and vulnerable, encapsulating that raw energy of desire and fear that accompanies first loves. Moreover, it provides a glimpse into Gabby’s shifting priorities as her search for love turns into self-discovery and growth.
Several readers have echoed my sentiments, with reviews praising the emotional depth and complexity of Gabby’s transformation throughout the book. One reviewer remarked, “It was SO FREAKING GOOD. I cried so much, but it was so worth it!” And I couldn’t agree more. The tears flowed not just from sadness but also from the joy of watching the characters evolve.
In conclusion, A Good Book (Sunday Morning) is perfect for anyone who cherishes a poignant coming-of-age story filled with unexpected twists, heartfelt emotion, and captivating chemistry. Fans of new adult and romance genres will undoubtedly find a piece of themselves in Gabby and Ben’s story, as it deftly explores the complexities of love, choice, and friendship. I walked away from this read with a deeper appreciation for how our choices shape our journeys, and I believe you will too. Grab a copy, curl up with a cup of tea, and get ready for an emotional rollercoaster—just don’t forget the tissues! 🌟