Book Review: Better Luck Next Time by Cara Bastone
Ever had a book that sounded like a dream come true but ended up being more of a “not quite” situation? That’s how I felt diving into Better Luck Next Time by Cara Bastone. As a longtime fan of her delightful romantic comedies like Promise Me Sunshine, I was buzzing with anticipation for this timeslip romp—but as I listened, my excitement cooled faster than a summer drink left in the sun.
From the outset, I was enchanted by the concept: estranged childhood friends reuniting, filled with the promise of frenemies-to-lovers energy and playful banter amid a timeline that twists and swirls. It should have been a whimsical escapade! However, this outing felt more chaotic than charming. The story centers around a leading lady whose passion for music leads her to belt out a selection of, dare I say, obnoxious songs—a creative choice that veered from catchy to cringe in almost every instance.
The characters, though relatable in their flaws, fell short of the depth I’ve come to expect from Bastone. Our female main character (FMC) meanders through her decisions like a leaf caught in a breeze, leaving me yearning for stronger resolve. And then there’s the male lead (MMC)—sweet but frustratingly passive. I found myself wanting to shake him and shout, “Just take charge already!” It felt as though both had a pact to shy away from vulnerability, making their romance feel more like a frequent neighborly encounter than a deep connection waiting to blossom.
Now, let’s talk about the audio aspect—the full cast narration. I know this is an unpopular opinion, but graphic audio just doesn’t resonate with me, especially here. The production choices drove me a little batty at times. Listening to the delightfully funny moments felt overshadowed by the overstimulation of the performance. Had I read this straight from the page, I suspect my experience would’ve been vastly different, potentially nudging my rating upwards past the 2.45 stars I landed on.
And yet, amidst my critiques, I must applaud Bastone’s signature humor. Moments of levity where character dynamics spark life were gold. It’s this humor that kept nudging me to the end. I could picture myself chuckling out loud during scenes that showcased her talent; it is pure Cara Bastone charm that shines, even amidst frustration.
In conclusion, if you’re cruising for a light-hearted, quirky rom-com with familiar tropes, you might just enjoy Better Luck Next Time—especially if you’re an ardent fan of graphic audio formats. But for die-hard Bastone supporters like myself, it’s a reminder that even our favorite authors can swing and miss sometimes. As I eagerly await her next offerings, I’m holding onto the hope that this one was just a quirky bubble in a vast sea of delightful narratives! After all, isn’t reading a bit like life—filled with ups, downs, and unexpected detours?