Review: What I Thought Was True

May •  2 •  2014

I received this book for free from FTC: Exchange for honest opinion, Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

This book may be unsuitable for people under 17 years of age due to its use of sexual content, drug and alcohol use, and/or violence.
Review: What I Thought Was TrueWhat I Thought Was True by Huntley Fitzpatrick
Published by Dial Books for Young Readers on April 15th 2014
Genres: Young Adult-Contemporary/Romance
Source: FTC: Exchange for honest opinion, Publisher
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From the author of My Life Next Door comes a swoony summertime romance full of expectation and regret, humor and hard questions.

Gwen Castle's Biggest Mistake Ever, Cassidy Somers, is slumming it as a yard boy on her Nantucket-esque island this summer. He's a rich kid from across the bridge in Stony Bay, and she hails from a family of fishermen and housecleaners who keep the island's summer people happy. Gwen worries a life of cleaning houses will be her fate too, but just when it looks like she'll never escape her past—or the island—Gwen's dad gives her some shocking advice. Sparks fly and secret histories unspool as Gwen spends a gorgeous, restless summer struggling to resolve what she thought was true—about the place she lives, the people she loves, and even herself—with what really is.

A magnetic, push-me-pull-me romance with depth, this is for fans of Sarah Dessen, Jenny Han, and Deb Caletti.

I figured out why I love these authors books so much. It occurred to me while I was reading this, how all her characters work. I’m not talking about some everyday desk job but a job where their character is molded. They aren’t brought up spoiled brats but they work for themselves and their family. Now why would I be attracted to that? Well, if you ever heard of The Five Love Languages, then you should know that my love language is…can you guess? Acts Of Service. That means that I receive love when my hubby does something for me. Like, wash dishes, make dinner, etc. Basically, actions speak louder than words for me. Since her characters all have jobs and work hard for what they have, I ADORE IT!!

Plot: So in this story you have this girl named Gwen who is hard worker and very dedicated to her family. Even though she is young, she really is older than what she seems. The plot moves at a great pace allowing the reader to really immerse in the story. From the first few pages I knew that I was in for a treat.

Love/Friendships: This story all explores love in many forms as well as friendships. Gwen is caught up in the finances of her family and doing her best to pull her weight. She takes an extra job that will not only get her out of the house but also gives her some freedom. She meets Cassidy who is also working hard for the summer. Together they form a friendship that goes beyond what they think. I like that their love didn’t form right away but started off rocky. They bickered yet flirted with one another. And despite what is said, they help each other out.

Ending: This story carries once again a chaotic family and life. In the end, it is love that wins out. The summer breeze, the late night get togethers, the struggle to find your identity are all rolled up nicely for the reader to enjoy. What I Thought Was True is excellent.

I give it 5 BITES!

5bites

Happy Reading!

4 Comments

  1. finley jayne
    May 2, 2014

    Great review, adding this one to my tbr list!

  2. Candace
    May 3, 2014

    I preordered this and got it this week. I can’t WAIT to read it! So glad to hear it’s fantastic!

  3. Jen @ YA Romantics
    May 4, 2014

    I agree with you — I started working when I was in high school and I always love it when books show teens with jobs! I just bought this and am super-excited to read it!
    Jen @ YA Romantics

  4. Lisa (Fic Talk)
    May 5, 2014

    I think that is what I love about this author’s books too! Even her most well-off character in MLND had a job! I loved it. I love the feel of her stories as well.

    She also writes really great friendships and genuinely swoon-worthy romances.

    Great review, Sav!