I am finally back to posting, I do apologise for being awol for a few weeks I have had a lot on! I am back with the post I have been promising for a while now: book review for L.C Rosen's Jack of Hearts (And other parts).
Before I start I would like to rate the book:★★☆☆☆.
My overall experience was I enjoyed some parts but really just wanted to finish the book. There were some really good things about the book as well as parts I wasn't quite enjoying as much.
About the book: This is a story of an openly gay teenager Jack Rothman. He is often talk of the school where his sex life is concerned, often the centre of gossip and rumours. Jack starts a column giving sex advice on his best friend Jenna's website. He has a stalker who leaves him notes. Jenna, himself and Ben (other best friend) start an investigation to unmask the stalker.
Firstly, I will start by saying I absolutely loved the advice aspect of this narrative. People sending in anonymous question and Jack of Hearts giving his honest answer. This was my favourite part of the whole book, I remember having some similar questions myself during my teens and it was refreshing seeing these in a book but also being answered. I think this will really help younger readers who the book is aimed at. I loved how open this book is about sex, this is how it should be in real life. Sure as an adult this is more so but as a teenager, it wasn't like this. The questions were realistic and I loved the approach to these topics, I think the world would be a better place if some form of Jack of Hearts existed in real life!
I think the main issue I had with the book was I guessed the stalker immediately. The ending wasn't a surprise for me and therefore I was a little mad because I had hoped I got it wrong and that there was going to be an amazing twist, but there wasn't. I am unsure if the writer made it obvious or if I am just super analytical when reading. I just hate when I am right about an ending.
The second thing, the book felt unfinished. Sure we know who the stalker is but we don't actually find out why. I know sometimes in life things cannot be answered but I just would have preferred a more resolved ending.
I did really like the characters in the book, especially Jack. He is bold and brilliant and it broke my heart to see him suffer at the hands of his stalker. I love how open he is about his sexuality and sex, I like that he shows the reader that it's okay to be open and do your thing but it is also okay if you want to do something different. I really liked the friendship dynamic between Jack, Ben and Jenna. Their personalities were easy to like and I loved how they bounce off one another banter wise. Very strong characters!
The book had its ups and downs, it was an alright read. I probably wouldn't read it again but I am still glad that I did read it. I think for my next book I would like something a little older but still in the LGBTQ+ category, if you have any recommendations please let me know!
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