Taylor Jenkins Reid’s newest novel is the perfect summer story. It’s surprising without being complicated and full of celebrity family gossip and turmoil. She captured my attention with her fun and lively characters that had depth and development, making the story far from a cheap and easy read. Definitely guided by her awesome characters rather than plot, the narrative flowed smoothly and without force.  

Reid’s story-telling is masterful, especially considering that she was able to weave in different perspectives (all four siblings, plus many side characters) and different time periods, which really allowed the story to bloom into its rightful fullness and completion. Without these multiple point-of-views and time periods, the book would have been lacking and quite frankly, boring. Reid knows how to craft an entertaining story. 

The only part of the narrative I didn’t truly understand was the “burning” aspect. I see how it literally connects, both beginning to end, but I don’t know if the metaphor was truly necessary, as I don’t see how it actually added anything to the story itself.