Book Review: Dating the It Guy

I don't usually read YA, but Dating the It Guy by Krysten Lindsay Hager was recommended to me and I'm excited to tell you about it!

I loved the character of Emme. She is paired with the most popular boy in school, Brendon, and, of course, she's quirky and average. But this isn't the predictable plot you might think it is and that's what kept me turning pages. The author does a great job of making Emme relatable and well-rounded as she gets to know Brendon, someone she's watched from afar, as she finds out the real him. But she also finds out some truths about herself along the way without being preachy. There were some laugh out loud moments and some sigh-worthy ones. But even with that, this isn't just an average high school romance.

Emme and Brendon are both dealing with some serious issues at home. Brendon's father is a senator and has mapped out his life and how their family presents themselves to the world. But all is not sunshine and roses and Brendon is trying to figure out his own path, while still making his family proud. Emme, however, made me cry in places as she deals with her grandmother's stroke and her grandfather's dementia. The love she has for her grandparents is so deep and real, it's easy to experience all of Emme's feelings with her. I loved how the author really brought these characters to life and teens will appreciate the realistic peek into all the things life throws their way.

I thought the author did an incredible job of giving the reader an emotional experience of figuring out what's real and what's not, where we all fit in this world, and how we cope when things don't go our way, especially as a teen! Ms. Hager is definitely an author I'll look for in the future.

You can buy your copy here for only .99 cents!

Here's the back copy:

Emme is a sophomore in high school who starts dating, Brendon Agretti, the popular senior who happens to be a senator's son and well-known for his good looks. Emme feels out of her comfort zone in Brendon's world and it doesn't help that his picture perfect ex, Lauren, seems determined to get back into his life, along with every other girl who wants to be the future Mrs. Agretti. Emme is already conflicted due to the fact her last boyfriend cheated on her and her whole world is off kilter with her family issues. Life suddenly seems easier keeping Brendon away and relying on her crystals and horoscopes to guide her. Emme soon starts to realize she needs to focus less on the stars and more on her senses. Can Emme get over her insecurities and make her relationship work? Life sure is complicated when you're dating the it guy.