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Love in 280 Characters or Less
Black college student Sydney Ciara navigates academics, love, and the online realm, in this Young Adult coming-of-age romance told through her blog posts, messages, social media posts, and more!
Sydney Ciara Warren is excited as she starts her first year of college, but also nervous. Her best friend Malcolm will be at a different university, so she'll have to make new friends. And despite her interests in writing and fashion, she has no idea what path will ultimately be right for her—though they probably don’t involve law school, regardless of her parents’ wishes.
As Sydney Ciara tries to figure out her place on campus and in the world, she finds solace in blogging about her life, putting together outfits with meaning, and spending time on Twitter. It’s within the digital space that she connects with someone who goes by YoungPrinceX. She may not know “X” in real life, but that doesn’t stop her from developing a crush on him. Except things get complicated, as she also navigates her first romantic relationship with a sweet boy on campus named Xavier (who maybe could be X?).
Can Sydney Ciara not only make it through her first semester, but thrive in real life, as much as she seems to be thriving online?
Told through blog posts, tweets, messages, emails, and more, here is a love letter to Twitter, to Black girls who think they won’t get chosen, and to those who take too long finding the perfect words.
Sydney Ciara Warren is excited as she starts her first year of college, but also nervous. Her best friend Malcolm will be at a different university, so she'll have to make new friends. And despite her interests in writing and fashion, she has no idea what path will ultimately be right for her—though they probably don’t involve law school, regardless of her parents’ wishes.
As Sydney Ciara tries to figure out her place on campus and in the world, she finds solace in blogging about her life, putting together outfits with meaning, and spending time on Twitter. It’s within the digital space that she connects with someone who goes by YoungPrinceX. She may not know “X” in real life, but that doesn’t stop her from developing a crush on him. Except things get complicated, as she also navigates her first romantic relationship with a sweet boy on campus named Xavier (who maybe could be X?).
Can Sydney Ciara not only make it through her first semester, but thrive in real life, as much as she seems to be thriving online?
Told through blog posts, tweets, messages, emails, and more, here is a love letter to Twitter, to Black girls who think they won’t get chosen, and to those who take too long finding the perfect words.
320 pages, Hardcover
First published April 15, 2025
14 people are currently reading
762 people want to read
About the author
Ravynn K. Stringfield
3 books76 followersRavynn K. Stringfield is a Virginia-based author. Ravynn's debut YA romance novel, LOVE REQUIRES CHOCOLATE, will be published from Joy Revolution on August 20, 2024. Her sophomore novel, LOVE IN 280 CHARACTERS OR LESS, is forthcoming from Feiwel and Friends on April 15, 2025. In addition to novels, Stringfield has written and published short fiction, personal essays and blogs, particular on her 6 year blog project, Black Girl Does Grad School. Her fiction can be found in Voyage YA Journal and midnight & indigo, and her personal essays can be found in Catapult Magazine. At Catapult, Stringfield wrote the column "Superhero Girlfriends Anonymous." She also holds a Ph.D. in American Studies from William & Mary.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
May 20, 2025
ੈ♡˳ rating: five of five stars
ੈ♡˳ summary: love in 280 characters or less by ravynn k. stringfield is a beautifully written debut that follows a young black woman as she navigates love, ambition, social media, and self-discovery. set against the backdrop of an academic world and the chaotic, vulnerable space of online connection, this is a coming-of-age story about what it means to be seen, to choose yourself, and to create a life on your own terms.
ੈ♡˳ thoughts: first off, a huge thank you to the author ravynn k. stringfield and the publisher for providing me with an arc of this book. i feel genuinely honored to have read it early because this story matters.
this book was so tender and raw and thoughtful. it perfectly captured what it feels like to be a young black woman trying to carve out space for joy, creativity, and love in a world that constantly demands so much of you. the main character’s voice was so real—sharp when she needed to protect herself, soft when she finally let someone in. i loved how social media was integrated into the story in a way that actually felt meaningful and true to how we experience connection today.
it’s about more than just falling in love—it’s about figuring out how to love yourself, how to fight for the life you want, and how to hold space for softness even when the world tells you not to. i truly adored this book and can’t wait to see what ravynn k. stringfield writes next.
ੈ♡˳ tropes:
ꕥ coming of age
ꕥ online-to-real life connection
ꕥ academic setting
ꕥ slow-burn romance
ꕥ self-discovery & identity
------
pre-read: got the arc for this and it’s been so long since i’ve read a book with a black fmc so this book is skipping all the others on my tbr for now.
ੈ♡˳ summary: love in 280 characters or less by ravynn k. stringfield is a beautifully written debut that follows a young black woman as she navigates love, ambition, social media, and self-discovery. set against the backdrop of an academic world and the chaotic, vulnerable space of online connection, this is a coming-of-age story about what it means to be seen, to choose yourself, and to create a life on your own terms.
ੈ♡˳ thoughts: first off, a huge thank you to the author ravynn k. stringfield and the publisher for providing me with an arc of this book. i feel genuinely honored to have read it early because this story matters.
this book was so tender and raw and thoughtful. it perfectly captured what it feels like to be a young black woman trying to carve out space for joy, creativity, and love in a world that constantly demands so much of you. the main character’s voice was so real—sharp when she needed to protect herself, soft when she finally let someone in. i loved how social media was integrated into the story in a way that actually felt meaningful and true to how we experience connection today.
it’s about more than just falling in love—it’s about figuring out how to love yourself, how to fight for the life you want, and how to hold space for softness even when the world tells you not to. i truly adored this book and can’t wait to see what ravynn k. stringfield writes next.
ੈ♡˳ tropes:
ꕥ coming of age
ꕥ online-to-real life connection
ꕥ academic setting
ꕥ slow-burn romance
ꕥ self-discovery & identity
------
pre-read: got the arc for this and it’s been so long since i’ve read a book with a black fmc so this book is skipping all the others on my tbr for now.
April 28, 2025
❥ Love in 280 Characters or Less
❥ 4/5
˚⊹ What I liked ˚⊹
❥ Sydney was such a good main character, she was super interesting and I loved watching her grow and become braver and bolder as the book went on.
❥ I was worried about the narrative style since this book is told through tweets and newsletters but it worked well!
❥ One of my favorite things about this book was the discussion of social issues, Sydney's essays and ideas were captivating, and I feel like I learned a lot!
❥ The side characters were super interesting, I loved Angie, Sydeny's sister, and Zion!
˚⊹ What I disliked ˚⊹
❥ My only issue with this book was the romance, I do not like love triangles and I think it would work a lot better as a book if Xavier were X. Also while I liked both the love interests, their actions made me honestly root for neither by the end.
Pre- Read- Thank you sm to the publisher and author for the arc! Apparently this comes out tomorrow so I better be quick...
❥ 4/5
˚⊹ What I liked ˚⊹
❥ Sydney was such a good main character, she was super interesting and I loved watching her grow and become braver and bolder as the book went on.
❥ I was worried about the narrative style since this book is told through tweets and newsletters but it worked well!
❥ One of my favorite things about this book was the discussion of social issues, Sydney's essays and ideas were captivating, and I feel like I learned a lot!
❥ The side characters were super interesting, I loved Angie, Sydeny's sister, and Zion!
˚⊹ What I disliked ˚⊹
❥ My only issue with this book was the romance, I do not like love triangles and I think it would work a lot better as a book if Xavier were X. Also while I liked both the love interests, their actions made me honestly root for neither by the end.
Pre- Read- Thank you sm to the publisher and author for the arc! Apparently this comes out tomorrow so I better be quick...
April 28, 2025
• My Reading Experience: Really Liked It
• Book Spice: None
• Content Thoughts:
I am thoroughly impressed. I loved the format selection of having us (the reader) follow the FMC's digital presence while following her story as a new college student. The plot was intriguing and I actually managed to be caught off guard when I thought things were painfully obvious. I will read more from this author.
• Book Spice: None
• Content Thoughts:
I am thoroughly impressed. I loved the format selection of having us (the reader) follow the FMC's digital presence while following her story as a new college student. The plot was intriguing and I actually managed to be caught off guard when I thought things were painfully obvious. I will read more from this author.
Read
April 12, 2025she’s so me! i love chronically online Black girl rep💞
April 1, 2025
Thank you NetGalley for the e-arc!
This book is a clever take on telling a story through a nontraditional format, told through blog posts, emails, texts and tweets.
It's a sweet story about a Black girl experiencing her first semester of college while juggling so many things.
The format was cool and it worked well in touching on some serious issues, while maintaining its silliness and the chaos that is beginning college.
However, my main complaint is just that the texts read like real life conversations instead of texts. I'd have liked it if the characters actually typed like teenagers.
Overall, this was a short read which didn't really entertain me much.
This book is a clever take on telling a story through a nontraditional format, told through blog posts, emails, texts and tweets.
It's a sweet story about a Black girl experiencing her first semester of college while juggling so many things.
The format was cool and it worked well in touching on some serious issues, while maintaining its silliness and the chaos that is beginning college.
However, my main complaint is just that the texts read like real life conversations instead of texts. I'd have liked it if the characters actually typed like teenagers.
Overall, this was a short read which didn't really entertain me much.
August 6, 2025
First, I want to say thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this e-ARC!
This book was really cute and I found the main character to be very relatable! I loved her perspectives on writing. This was a solid 3.5 star read for me. I felt the romance aspect could’ve been stronger, and the ending felt a little lackluster.
This book was really cute and I found the main character to be very relatable! I loved her perspectives on writing. This was a solid 3.5 star read for me. I felt the romance aspect could’ve been stronger, and the ending felt a little lackluster.
March 30, 2025
Ravynn Stringfield’s novel is a refreshing take on storytelling, presented through Sydney's tweets, blog posts, and text messages. This inventive format captures her journey through her first semester of college, where she grapples with self-discovery, finding her voice, and navigating the complexities of relationships.
The narrative highlights Sydney's challenges as a Black college student, exploring themes like identity, resilience, and authenticity. Along the way, readers are immersed in her experiences of forming new friendships, dealing with heartache, and discovering the importance of staying true to herself, despite societal expectations and pressures. It's a powerful and emotional portrayal of the struggles and triumphs many young adults face during this transformative period.
Thank you NetGalley and Ravynn’s team for allowing me the opportunity to read and review this ARC!
The narrative highlights Sydney's challenges as a Black college student, exploring themes like identity, resilience, and authenticity. Along the way, readers are immersed in her experiences of forming new friendships, dealing with heartache, and discovering the importance of staying true to herself, despite societal expectations and pressures. It's a powerful and emotional portrayal of the struggles and triumphs many young adults face during this transformative period.
Thank you NetGalley and Ravynn’s team for allowing me the opportunity to read and review this ARC!
May 5, 2025
As a black girl who is chronically online, was in high school when Twitter popped off and who went to a college where I knew absolutely no-one, this made my 2010-2017 me scream. OH AND IM ALSO FROM VA/MD area 😩
This is so nostalgic, beautifully written and it almost brought me to tears multiple times.
Syd was so relatable, so smart and soooooooo perfect. She is the epitome of how most Black girls have to be at such a young age and I remember grappling with some things she did… even as an adult 🤣
She’s a creative, she’s a writer, she’s a dreamer and she’s an achiever. She deserves everything she got in this book plus more!
I finished this in one day and I could NOTTTT put it down.
I loved it.
💜💜💜💜
This is so nostalgic, beautifully written and it almost brought me to tears multiple times.
Syd was so relatable, so smart and soooooooo perfect. She is the epitome of how most Black girls have to be at such a young age and I remember grappling with some things she did… even as an adult 🤣
She’s a creative, she’s a writer, she’s a dreamer and she’s an achiever. She deserves everything she got in this book plus more!
I finished this in one day and I could NOTTTT put it down.
I loved it.
💜💜💜💜
April 6, 2025
love in 280 characters or less follows a young black woman, sydney, through her first semester as a college freshman. it is a story of self identity and coming of age, told through sydney’s blog posts, tweets, and texts.
i think the way that ravyn stringfield chose to write the story through these online tidbits was such a good creative choice. as is referenced in the novel, so much of our digital life is intertwined with our real life and we find ourselves having to navigate how that works as we grow older. sydney is a relatable and likable main character, and i couldn’t help but root for her. my only real complaint with the story is that the texts/tweets, or i guess the voice of the characters themselves, didn’t feel necessarily like teenagers/young adults just out of high school. it felt more like written conversation forced into this “funky” format at times, but it didn’t take away from the overall enjoyment of the story.
thank you netgalley for the e-arc!
i think the way that ravyn stringfield chose to write the story through these online tidbits was such a good creative choice. as is referenced in the novel, so much of our digital life is intertwined with our real life and we find ourselves having to navigate how that works as we grow older. sydney is a relatable and likable main character, and i couldn’t help but root for her. my only real complaint with the story is that the texts/tweets, or i guess the voice of the characters themselves, didn’t feel necessarily like teenagers/young adults just out of high school. it felt more like written conversation forced into this “funky” format at times, but it didn’t take away from the overall enjoyment of the story.
thank you netgalley for the e-arc!
May 16, 2025
3.5ish stars, I think?! I don’t know?? I’ll come back to share my thoughts!!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
I love a book written in multiple formats!! This book had that — tweets, emails, texts, blogs. It was so fun! But it also felt a little confusing at times to follow because of its formatting. At times I couldn’t completely follow along and had to determine if it was a private blog post, public, etc etc. I felt like it improved a bit in the end and I’m hopeful this won’t be the same when it’s printed!
The first 60% of this book felt a bit slow and underdeveloped. The story really picked up in the second half, however, that point I did feel a bit disengaged.. there is a lot of good stuff in the second half but since the first half dragged on so much, I felt like I just wanted the book to end.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
I love a book written in multiple formats!! This book had that — tweets, emails, texts, blogs. It was so fun! But it also felt a little confusing at times to follow because of its formatting. At times I couldn’t completely follow along and had to determine if it was a private blog post, public, etc etc. I felt like it improved a bit in the end and I’m hopeful this won’t be the same when it’s printed!
The first 60% of this book felt a bit slow and underdeveloped. The story really picked up in the second half, however, that point I did feel a bit disengaged.. there is a lot of good stuff in the second half but since the first half dragged on so much, I felt like I just wanted the book to end.
April 4, 2025
How could I not read a book with this cover? It is so vibrant, fun and modern, much like its content. Sydney Ciara is a Black college student navigating academics and love. Starting college is exciting but also nerve-wracking, as she'll have to make new friends and figure out her place on campus now that her best friend Malcolm is miles away at a different university.
Sydney finds solace in blogging and tweeting, where she connects with YoungPrinceX. But there's also a boy on campus named Xavier that she clicks with. Can romance thrive online as much as IRL? And if writing is so therapeutic, can it also be a lucrative career? Something to noodle on...
Clearly I am on a YA reading streak. It is helping me build a list of books to recommend for summer reading. Something light for buddy reads with the teen in your life. Go ahead and add Love in 280 Characters or Less to the list. It is mostly told in an easy-to-read format of blog posts, tweets, emails and texts. Unconventional but the perfect writing style to tell this story of self-discovery and connections in today's world.
Love in 280 Characters or Less is a love letter to social media and to Black girls who think they won't get chosen. Oh, how I adore this story and its message!
Happy Early Pub Day, Ravynn K. Stringfield! Love in 280 Characters or Less will be available Tuesday, April 15.
Disclaimer: An advance copy was received directly from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions are my own and would be the same if I spent my hard-earned coins. ~LiteraryMarie
Sydney finds solace in blogging and tweeting, where she connects with YoungPrinceX. But there's also a boy on campus named Xavier that she clicks with. Can romance thrive online as much as IRL? And if writing is so therapeutic, can it also be a lucrative career? Something to noodle on...
Clearly I am on a YA reading streak. It is helping me build a list of books to recommend for summer reading. Something light for buddy reads with the teen in your life. Go ahead and add Love in 280 Characters or Less to the list. It is mostly told in an easy-to-read format of blog posts, tweets, emails and texts. Unconventional but the perfect writing style to tell this story of self-discovery and connections in today's world.
Love in 280 Characters or Less is a love letter to social media and to Black girls who think they won't get chosen. Oh, how I adore this story and its message!
Happy Early Pub Day, Ravynn K. Stringfield! Love in 280 Characters or Less will be available Tuesday, April 15.
Disclaimer: An advance copy was received directly from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions are my own and would be the same if I spent my hard-earned coins. ~LiteraryMarie
May 1, 2025
This was a really fun book, I liked the way it was written and structured. With the rise of social media profiles and blogs, it felt like I was reading an online post and being stuck because I didn’t want to miss a post. I understood Sydney’s character a lot, freshman year is hard and she handled her challenges as best as she could. I can’t lie, I thought X was Zion - I was completely wrong 🤣.
*arc review
*arc review
Read
February 9, 2026DNF but counting it since I read more than 50%
May 18, 2025
This book was incredible! It’s exactly what it says it is - a YA coming of age story set in college.
The story itself is so realistic and relatable. It’s the perfect read for someone now starting college / uni.
This book had depth, an engaging storyline and was beautifully written.
The format of the book was a bit confusing at first, but by the end of chapter 1 you’ll get the hang of it.
Thank you NetGalley, Macmillan Children's Publishing Group, Feiwel & Friends and Ravynn K. Stringfield for this ARC.
The story itself is so realistic and relatable. It’s the perfect read for someone now starting college / uni.
This book had depth, an engaging storyline and was beautifully written.
The format of the book was a bit confusing at first, but by the end of chapter 1 you’ll get the hang of it.
Thank you NetGalley, Macmillan Children's Publishing Group, Feiwel & Friends and Ravynn K. Stringfield for this ARC.
November 4, 2025
Stringfield love stories don't feel too lovey dovey to me and I like that. Yet I never really got the vibe this girl was falling in love like she said. This story felt like a girl navigating her first year of college through blogs, texts and emails. Which was good in itself but I wouldn't categorize it as a love story. I enjoyed Love Requires Chocolate far more, but I can see myself recommending this to some early college girls or people who like reading books written with a format of texts & emails.
Want to read
August 17, 20222024 new prayer point God keep me safe and alive.
April 10, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book in exchange for honest feedback.
This was an interesting and unique read—told entirely through blog posts, tweets, emails, and texts. That structure made for a fast-paced experience, but it also took a minute to find its rhythm. Early on, there’s a confusing moment where we’re jumping back and forth in time on the same day with no clear reason, but once that settles, the timeline stays pretty linear.
I’ll start by saying this book made me nostalgic for my own college days. While I can’t speak to the Black experience the way Sydney does, I did relate to the process of coming into your own identity during that time. But enough about me.
Sydney is starting her freshman year of college, feeling a little untethered. Her best friend, Malcom, is off at a different school, and though Sydney loves writing and fashion, she’s not naturally drawn to the college party scene. Still, she’s determined to try new things. She makes new friends, connects with a great mentor (who’s also her TA), and starts a new relationship with a fellow student named Xavier—all while chronicling her experiences on her blog. Then, one day, a mysterious (but refreshingly non-creepy) Twitter handle slides into her DMs, and she’s left wondering… could it be Xavier?
This book touches on everything you’d expect from a freshman-year story—friendships, first loves, figuring out who you are—but it also dives deeper. Sydney ends up unintentionally at the center of a larger campus conversation around race and activism after she writes a blog post about an incident involving Malcom’s roommate. She never meant to be political; she was just speaking her mind. But when the post goes viral, she finds herself asking: Does being a Black writer with an audience mean she has to be an activist, too?
I really appreciated the way the book explored that tension. Again, I can’t speak to the experience firsthand, but the questions Sydney raises—about identity, responsibility, and choice—felt thoughtful and timely.
That said, there were a few moments that left me puzzled. Maybe it’s the nature of the storytelling format, but sometimes it felt like we’d skipped a beat. For instance, Sydney asks the mysterious Twitter user to show her his artwork—but we haven’t seen any indication up to that point that he’s an artist. She also calls Xavier a genius well before we’ve seen any real evidence to support that. It’s only later we learn he’s on a scholarship, which helps, but I would’ve liked a little more development leading up to those moments. Still, I pretty much fell for Xavier the minute he bought Sydney comic books. Same, girl. I was also a latecomer to the comic world, but a proud nerd now.
One small moment that made me pause was when Sydney refers to herself as queer in a blog post. I actually had to reread it to figure out if she was quoting someone else or speaking about herself—it was that unclear. If it was a reference to her own identity, it’s mentioned and then forgotten in the same breath. It didn’t necessarily need to become a major plot point, but I would’ve appreciated a bit more reflection or clarity.
And finally, the ending - or near ending. I’m torn. I won’t spoil anything, but I was a little surprised by who Sydney ended up with. That said, while I probably would’ve been happy either way, I do think she made the right choice. As for the mysterious Twitter handle? Let’s just say… I saw that reveal coming.
Overall, Love in 280 Characters or Less was a fresh, thoughtful read. The format might not be for everyone, but it worked for me, and Sydney’s voice kept me engaged the whole way through.
This was an interesting and unique read—told entirely through blog posts, tweets, emails, and texts. That structure made for a fast-paced experience, but it also took a minute to find its rhythm. Early on, there’s a confusing moment where we’re jumping back and forth in time on the same day with no clear reason, but once that settles, the timeline stays pretty linear.
I’ll start by saying this book made me nostalgic for my own college days. While I can’t speak to the Black experience the way Sydney does, I did relate to the process of coming into your own identity during that time. But enough about me.
Sydney is starting her freshman year of college, feeling a little untethered. Her best friend, Malcom, is off at a different school, and though Sydney loves writing and fashion, she’s not naturally drawn to the college party scene. Still, she’s determined to try new things. She makes new friends, connects with a great mentor (who’s also her TA), and starts a new relationship with a fellow student named Xavier—all while chronicling her experiences on her blog. Then, one day, a mysterious (but refreshingly non-creepy) Twitter handle slides into her DMs, and she’s left wondering… could it be Xavier?
This book touches on everything you’d expect from a freshman-year story—friendships, first loves, figuring out who you are—but it also dives deeper. Sydney ends up unintentionally at the center of a larger campus conversation around race and activism after she writes a blog post about an incident involving Malcom’s roommate. She never meant to be political; she was just speaking her mind. But when the post goes viral, she finds herself asking: Does being a Black writer with an audience mean she has to be an activist, too?
I really appreciated the way the book explored that tension. Again, I can’t speak to the experience firsthand, but the questions Sydney raises—about identity, responsibility, and choice—felt thoughtful and timely.
That said, there were a few moments that left me puzzled. Maybe it’s the nature of the storytelling format, but sometimes it felt like we’d skipped a beat. For instance, Sydney asks the mysterious Twitter user to show her his artwork—but we haven’t seen any indication up to that point that he’s an artist. She also calls Xavier a genius well before we’ve seen any real evidence to support that. It’s only later we learn he’s on a scholarship, which helps, but I would’ve liked a little more development leading up to those moments. Still, I pretty much fell for Xavier the minute he bought Sydney comic books. Same, girl. I was also a latecomer to the comic world, but a proud nerd now.
One small moment that made me pause was when Sydney refers to herself as queer in a blog post. I actually had to reread it to figure out if she was quoting someone else or speaking about herself—it was that unclear. If it was a reference to her own identity, it’s mentioned and then forgotten in the same breath. It didn’t necessarily need to become a major plot point, but I would’ve appreciated a bit more reflection or clarity.
And finally, the ending - or near ending. I’m torn. I won’t spoil anything, but I was a little surprised by who Sydney ended up with. That said, while I probably would’ve been happy either way, I do think she made the right choice. As for the mysterious Twitter handle? Let’s just say… I saw that reveal coming.
Overall, Love in 280 Characters or Less was a fresh, thoughtful read. The format might not be for everyone, but it worked for me, and Sydney’s voice kept me engaged the whole way through.
March 28, 2025
Love in 280 characters or Less
By Ravynn Stringfield
**Love in 280 Characters or Less**
By Ravynn Stringfield
This captivating debut by Ravynn Stringfield is an inspiring and beautifully crafted exploration of life's complexities. The narrative artfully intertwines themes of friendship, the exhilarating yet daunting first year of college, the joy and struggles of making new connections, and the weight of accountability.
Syd is at the heart of the story, a bright and introspective young woman on the cusp of her college journey. As she navigates this pivotal transition, the reader is drawn into the warm embrace of her supportive family dynamics. Full of ambition and dreams, Syd's mother sees her daughter as a future lawyer, proudly boasting about her major in law to relatives with a glow of pride. However, in stark contrast to her mother’s aspirations, Syd and her sister Janaya feel the pangs of unfulfilled dreams. While Janaya is assertive and candid with their mother, telling her directly about her path, Syd finds herself in a tangled web of emotions, hesitating to confront the reality of her dreams.
Syd yearns to chase a different passion—a passion for writing. She envisions herself immersed in the vibrant world of magazines, crafting stories that resonate with others. This dream ignites a fire within her, one that clashes with the expectations set by her family. As she wrestles with her feelings and contemplates how to share her truth, her journey of self-discovery unfolds, revealing the profound challenge of aligning personal desires with familial hopes. Syd's journey included friendships with her best friend, Malcolm, her boyfriend, Xavier, and her first female friend, Angie.
I love the tone of this book, which is full of jokes, self-discovery, and inspiration.
By Ravynn Stringfield
**Love in 280 Characters or Less**
By Ravynn Stringfield
This captivating debut by Ravynn Stringfield is an inspiring and beautifully crafted exploration of life's complexities. The narrative artfully intertwines themes of friendship, the exhilarating yet daunting first year of college, the joy and struggles of making new connections, and the weight of accountability.
Syd is at the heart of the story, a bright and introspective young woman on the cusp of her college journey. As she navigates this pivotal transition, the reader is drawn into the warm embrace of her supportive family dynamics. Full of ambition and dreams, Syd's mother sees her daughter as a future lawyer, proudly boasting about her major in law to relatives with a glow of pride. However, in stark contrast to her mother’s aspirations, Syd and her sister Janaya feel the pangs of unfulfilled dreams. While Janaya is assertive and candid with their mother, telling her directly about her path, Syd finds herself in a tangled web of emotions, hesitating to confront the reality of her dreams.
Syd yearns to chase a different passion—a passion for writing. She envisions herself immersed in the vibrant world of magazines, crafting stories that resonate with others. This dream ignites a fire within her, one that clashes with the expectations set by her family. As she wrestles with her feelings and contemplates how to share her truth, her journey of self-discovery unfolds, revealing the profound challenge of aligning personal desires with familial hopes. Syd's journey included friendships with her best friend, Malcolm, her boyfriend, Xavier, and her first female friend, Angie.
I love the tone of this book, which is full of jokes, self-discovery, and inspiration.
October 11, 2025
*3.5 Stars
“I am like a phoenix. I will rise from these ashes. But first… I’ll burn it all down.”
I'd like to thank MacMillan Children's Publishing Group for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
I've also posted this review on Instagram and my blog.
Instagram Post
Blog Post
Content Warnings: racism, police brutality, car accident
I love a book told through a multi-media format, and this book did it really well! I enjoyed reading through Sydney's blog posts, tweets, DMs, and emails to follow along with her story. I thought that it worked well, especially since Sydney is so heavily involved in the online community and takes pride in her writing there. Speaking of the main character, I really enjoyed seeing her grow and develop as she tackled different challenges. She was strong and determined, but still able to acknowledge when she made a mistake. One aspect I didn't enjoy was the love triangle. In general, this trope isn't one that I enjoy, and I wish there had been more communication between the characters. In terms of setting, the college setting was well written and was a great backdrop for Sydney to start figuring out what she wants to pursue in the future. Overall, an intriguing read!
“I am like a phoenix. I will rise from these ashes. But first… I’ll burn it all down.”
I'd like to thank MacMillan Children's Publishing Group for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
I've also posted this review on Instagram and my blog.
Instagram Post
Blog Post
Content Warnings: racism, police brutality, car accident
I love a book told through a multi-media format, and this book did it really well! I enjoyed reading through Sydney's blog posts, tweets, DMs, and emails to follow along with her story. I thought that it worked well, especially since Sydney is so heavily involved in the online community and takes pride in her writing there. Speaking of the main character, I really enjoyed seeing her grow and develop as she tackled different challenges. She was strong and determined, but still able to acknowledge when she made a mistake. One aspect I didn't enjoy was the love triangle. In general, this trope isn't one that I enjoy, and I wish there had been more communication between the characters. In terms of setting, the college setting was well written and was a great backdrop for Sydney to start figuring out what she wants to pursue in the future. Overall, an intriguing read!
April 15, 2025
Sydney is a black teen that’s a freshman that is figuring herself out her first semester in college. A coming of age story where she is trying to embrace her confidence although she feels unsure in her life making new friends, love & what she’s going to major in. Syd loves writing and fashion but her mother wants her to get a degree in law & Syd wrestles if that’s what she really wants to do or find out what she’s really passionate about. She balances her creative side more with how she dresses & using twitter as her diary for those that may enjoy her work. Her best friend Malcolm is at another school but they still try to remain close but things take a turn that may shake their entire foundation. I really enjoyed this book & found it refreshing to read & see all that Syd went through as a young woman finding her own path. Definitely cannot wait to explore more in this authors future work. Thankfully for the complimentary copy in exchange for my honest review.
April 21, 2025
Sydney is starting college at CVU and with that comes total freedom and new adventures. She’s navigating classes, making new friends, trying to hold on to new ones and maybe even finding love. While college isn’t going exactly as planned, her online persona seems to be thriving. What’s a girl gotta do to make it all come together?
I loved how this was told between blog posts, texts and tweets! I felt like this was super relatable as college was so nerve wracking at first. As time goes on, you find your place and I loved seeing Sydney navigate that.
This was based around Sydney’s first year of college, but the message held so much more than that. It asked a lot of really good thought provoking questions and I appreciated how raw it was.
Overall, this was a beautifully written coming of age story!
Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for an arc of this book!
I loved how this was told between blog posts, texts and tweets! I felt like this was super relatable as college was so nerve wracking at first. As time goes on, you find your place and I loved seeing Sydney navigate that.
This was based around Sydney’s first year of college, but the message held so much more than that. It asked a lot of really good thought provoking questions and I appreciated how raw it was.
Overall, this was a beautifully written coming of age story!
Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for an arc of this book!
October 13, 2025
Love in 280 Characters was a very unconventional read, told entirely through blog posts and tweets. I actually enjoyed the fresh experience of reading something so different. The story follows Sydney Ciara, a Black college student navigating college, friendships, love, and social media..
I wouldn’t classify it as a romance—it felt more like a coming-of-age story. At first, I expected more romance because of the title, but the focus was really on Sydney’s personal growth.
I just loved the way the story was told, I related with Sydney a lot because sometimes we think we’re okay, but we’re really not—and for Sydney, writing was her way of expressing that. I appreciated having a strong Black female lead who stayed true to herself and decided that not all friends have to become lovers (spoiler alert).
Though it was an unconventional read, overall, it was an enjoyable book.
I wouldn’t classify it as a romance—it felt more like a coming-of-age story. At first, I expected more romance because of the title, but the focus was really on Sydney’s personal growth.
I just loved the way the story was told, I related with Sydney a lot because sometimes we think we’re okay, but we’re really not—and for Sydney, writing was her way of expressing that. I appreciated having a strong Black female lead who stayed true to herself and decided that not all friends have to become lovers (spoiler alert).
Though it was an unconventional read, overall, it was an enjoyable book.
April 4, 2025
Love in 280 Characters is a poignant and modern exploration of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery in the digital age. Written in a unique style that mirrors the brevity of social media posts, the book captures fleeting emotions, deep connections, and the raw vulnerability of relationships—all within the constraints of 280 characters.
For anyone who has ever searched for love online or wrestled with their own self-worth in the process, this is a must-read. It’s a testament to the beauty of fleeting moments and the enduring strength of self-love.
The twist? I saw it coming. But the ending? Chef’s kiss. It lands perfectly, leaving you with that rare mix of satisfaction and longing that only the best love stories can deliver.
For anyone who has ever searched for love online or wrestled with their own self-worth in the process, this is a must-read. It’s a testament to the beauty of fleeting moments and the enduring strength of self-love.
The twist? I saw it coming. But the ending? Chef’s kiss. It lands perfectly, leaving you with that rare mix of satisfaction and longing that only the best love stories can deliver.
February 5, 2026
I received an advanced copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Sydney Ciara is about to start her freshman year of college at Coastal Virginia University. Her best friend, Malcolm, is unfortunately going to Piedmont University so she's flying solo at CVU. Told through blog posts, text messages, and Twitter threads, we get to follow Syd's first semester as she navigates classes, boys, and a mystery Twitter handle that she is definitely crushing on. While there is a bit of suspense at who runs the Twitter account (is it Malcolm? Is it the new boy she's been talking to, Xavier?) the story is first and foremost a coming of age story as Syd tries to find who she wants to be. The book was fast paced, and I loved watching Sydney really come into her own and find her voice. I cannot recommend this one enough.
Sydney Ciara is about to start her freshman year of college at Coastal Virginia University. Her best friend, Malcolm, is unfortunately going to Piedmont University so she's flying solo at CVU. Told through blog posts, text messages, and Twitter threads, we get to follow Syd's first semester as she navigates classes, boys, and a mystery Twitter handle that she is definitely crushing on. While there is a bit of suspense at who runs the Twitter account (is it Malcolm? Is it the new boy she's been talking to, Xavier?) the story is first and foremost a coming of age story as Syd tries to find who she wants to be. The book was fast paced, and I loved watching Sydney really come into her own and find her voice. I cannot recommend this one enough.
January 26, 2025
When I started reading, I didn’t know that I would be reading this story solely through Sydney’s blog posts, tweets, and text messages. Knowing who Syd is as a character and better understanding her writing, I think this was the perfect way to write this book. I loved seeing her navigate her first semester of college and her trying to make friends, navigating romance, and overall figuring out her life. This was an enjoyable, yet semi serious read.
Thank you to Feiwel & Friends and NetGalley for this ARC!
Thank you to Feiwel & Friends and NetGalley for this ARC!
April 19, 2025
˗ˏˋ꒰📒꒱ 𝟯 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘀
︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵
I really liked the way the story was told through blog posts! It added an extra layer of fun that would have been different if it was told in a different way. I also liked how it followed Syd's first year of college, as I am currently a college student going through these same things. Something I didn't like was who Syd ended up with, just because I was biased towards one of the guys. Other than that, it was a really good book!
˗ˏˋ꒰💌꒱happy reading !!! ⊰
︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵
︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵
I really liked the way the story was told through blog posts! It added an extra layer of fun that would have been different if it was told in a different way. I also liked how it followed Syd's first year of college, as I am currently a college student going through these same things. Something I didn't like was who Syd ended up with, just because I was biased towards one of the guys. Other than that, it was a really good book!
˗ˏˋ꒰💌꒱happy reading !!! ⊰
︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵
March 13, 2025
4.5 Rounded up for GR!
This was a solid YA novel told through texts, tweets, emails, and blog posts. At first it was a more “fluffy” read but MAN it got deep and real and heartfelt.
This is a book that can resonate with so many young adults hearts: coming-of-age, going off to college, STRUGGLING in your first semester from learning what a syllabus is and where to find it, navigating friendships new and old, family dynamics and relationships, romantic relationships, roommate relationships, being off on your own for the first time…and on top of that, it tackles racial injustice and what it means to be an activist. And trying to figure all this out at 18 years old.
I also appreciate the idea it begs of what it means to be a writer and how writing can be so cathartic.
ARC provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
This was a solid YA novel told through texts, tweets, emails, and blog posts. At first it was a more “fluffy” read but MAN it got deep and real and heartfelt.
This is a book that can resonate with so many young adults hearts: coming-of-age, going off to college, STRUGGLING in your first semester from learning what a syllabus is and where to find it, navigating friendships new and old, family dynamics and relationships, romantic relationships, roommate relationships, being off on your own for the first time…and on top of that, it tackles racial injustice and what it means to be an activist. And trying to figure all this out at 18 years old.
I also appreciate the idea it begs of what it means to be a writer and how writing can be so cathartic.
ARC provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
April 14, 2025
4.5!
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First off, thank you to the editor and Feiwel and Friends for sending me an e-arc in exchange for an honest review!
I love a good coming of age story, and this book did not disappoint. Syd is navigating her first year of college, and I think it’s great writing books set during this time since it’s hard to know what to expect, and readers at this age can feel very seen! I was a commuter student, so I don’t know what it’s like to dorm, but there were things that felt familiar: unsure when it comes to making friends and figuring out what you want to do. It’s a very confusing time, but it’s also a time that allows for growth and learning more about yourself. Also, Ravynn K. Stringfield shows the realities of being a Black college student and what they have to deal with from these administrations. With the events that occur also come conversations and inward reflection of what makes a person an activist, activism in social media spaces and more. This is something that everyone should read and learn more about.
I really enjoyed the multimedia format of the book! I think it would’ve been even cooler to have seen how it looked in a physical copy, but you can still enjoy it in ebook format. As someone who has spent a lot of time in online spaces, I really liked how Syd using the Internet as an outlet wasn’t something that was looked down upon. I also really enjoy Stringfield’s writing style! I loved her debut, Love Requires Chocolate, so I knew that I had to request this as soon as I saw it.
Syd’s passion for writing was inspiring, making me think about my own writing and how I want to present myself to the rest of the world through it. It’s clear that this is what she loves and what she’s meant to do. I love the conversations she had with her mentor and with her family regarding her future, and I love how we saw her explore what it is that she wanted. Many college students change their plans, whether it’s because they felt pressure from family, simply realized it wasn’t what they thought it was, and other reasons as well. It’s important for teens to know that it’s okay that they don’t have it all figured out and if they end up choosing a different path.
The love triangle that goes on also had me interested, and I think it fits very well with the coming-of-age feeling and figuring things out at that age. I think the synopsis makes the book come across like it’s going to be more romance-heavy, or maybe that was just me. But I read it more as Syd’s journey as she handles the newness of dorming college, figures out her path, makes friends and has new experiences, which also includes love, and documenting how she’s feeling. I also think this would be such a wonderful coming-of age series if it were to be adapted!
Overall, I had a great time reading this book! 4.5 rounded up to 5!
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First off, thank you to the editor and Feiwel and Friends for sending me an e-arc in exchange for an honest review!
I love a good coming of age story, and this book did not disappoint. Syd is navigating her first year of college, and I think it’s great writing books set during this time since it’s hard to know what to expect, and readers at this age can feel very seen! I was a commuter student, so I don’t know what it’s like to dorm, but there were things that felt familiar: unsure when it comes to making friends and figuring out what you want to do. It’s a very confusing time, but it’s also a time that allows for growth and learning more about yourself. Also, Ravynn K. Stringfield shows the realities of being a Black college student and what they have to deal with from these administrations. With the events that occur also come conversations and inward reflection of what makes a person an activist, activism in social media spaces and more. This is something that everyone should read and learn more about.
I really enjoyed the multimedia format of the book! I think it would’ve been even cooler to have seen how it looked in a physical copy, but you can still enjoy it in ebook format. As someone who has spent a lot of time in online spaces, I really liked how Syd using the Internet as an outlet wasn’t something that was looked down upon. I also really enjoy Stringfield’s writing style! I loved her debut, Love Requires Chocolate, so I knew that I had to request this as soon as I saw it.
Syd’s passion for writing was inspiring, making me think about my own writing and how I want to present myself to the rest of the world through it. It’s clear that this is what she loves and what she’s meant to do. I love the conversations she had with her mentor and with her family regarding her future, and I love how we saw her explore what it is that she wanted. Many college students change their plans, whether it’s because they felt pressure from family, simply realized it wasn’t what they thought it was, and other reasons as well. It’s important for teens to know that it’s okay that they don’t have it all figured out and if they end up choosing a different path.
The love triangle that goes on also had me interested, and I think it fits very well with the coming-of-age feeling and figuring things out at that age. I think the synopsis makes the book come across like it’s going to be more romance-heavy, or maybe that was just me. But I read it more as Syd’s journey as she handles the newness of dorming college, figures out her path, makes friends and has new experiences, which also includes love, and documenting how she’s feeling. I also think this would be such a wonderful coming-of age series if it were to be adapted!
Overall, I had a great time reading this book! 4.5 rounded up to 5!
January 30, 2026
This was an interesting listen since it's mostly told in tweets and texts. For me, it was harder to connect with the characters that way. Despite the emotional response I had, this was just ok to me. Very YA, which isn't bad because it is YA, but I found Syd a little…off. But with that being said, she reminds me of a younger me lmaoo, so I don't hate her. The last 3rd of the book takes a strange turn. I think we started throwing in everything but the kitchen sink.
October 25, 2024
This was a great young adult contemporary romance. I loved how this story was told through mixed media like social media posts, blogs and texts. I really liked the characters in this book and enjoyed the coming of age story. Overall this was a pretty good read.
Thank you to Feiwel & Friends and NetGalley for the gifted arc.
Thank you to Feiwel & Friends and NetGalley for the gifted arc.
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