Book: You Again by Dianna Roman
Reviewed by Anonymous
Rating: 4/5
I have so many mixed feelings about this book.
First, Dianna Roman is a great writer. This was a genuinely good book, and some parts were wickedly effective. I was tearing up in places, especially during the complicated situation in the middle. It hurt for everyone involved, which is honestly impressive. I also really appreciated the immigrant family dynamics, which felt spot-on in an area where books can so easily get it wrong.
But OH MY GOD, the pacing.
The beginning was so slow for me. Johnny and Aiden keep missing each other and finding their way back into each other's orbit, and eventually, the payoff felt worth it. But some of those beats were held just a little too long. I wanted them together. Like, TOGETHER, hanging out and getting to know each other, instead of constantly being separated.
And after all that buildup, I wanted more time with them once they finally got there.
Johnny also tested my patience. I loved him, but if I had to hear about his terrible ex one more time, I was going to throw the book. WE GET IT, JOHNNY. HE SUCKED. PLEASE DEVELOP A NEW THOUGHT.
Aiden, meanwhile, was an absolute doll who put up with entirely too much. But once Johnny finally let him in, they were genuinely great together, and I completely believed in them.
So yes, I have complaints. But I was also emotionally invested, tearing up, yelling, and completely rooting for these two.