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How to Get Over Your (Best Friend's) Ex
Hannah has never been “that girl”, the one everyone looks at, the one everyone talks about. She is “that girl’s” best friend. But when Hannah meets Seth, the handsome and charming newcomer, she wonders if, for once, she might be chosen first. Until Braelyn and Seth meet, and Braelyn sweeps his attention away as only she can. Hannah is left to watch the first boy she’s ever truly liked date not only someone else but her best friend. When Seth unexpectedly breaks up with Braelyn, she is hysterical. Braelyn is used to ruling the school with a Gucci-clad fist, but her first taste of heartbreak leaves her questioning herself. Hannah decides to help her get over her recent heartbreak using the '6 easy steps to get over a guy' while secretly walking herself through the process to move on fromSeth once and for all. Because she and Braelyn have rules. Because their rules are sacred and ensure their friendship lasts. Because even though he is no longer dating Braelyn, you never, ever date your best friend’s ex. But getting over Seth is easier said than done when Hannah learns that she is the reason for the breakup and Seth has feelings for her. What will she choose? The friend who has been by her side all along, or the boy who makes her feel like she’s more than just the popular girl’s best friend?
272 pages, Paperback
First published June 11, 2024
12 people are currently reading
3511 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
March 10, 2024
This book really caught me by surprise I knew I would enjoy it as it’s full of tropes I enjoy however I just didn’t realise how much I’d be grabbed. Once I started this book I really didn’t want to stop, I have felt so many emotions in relating closely to the character of Hannah, it was a welcomed surprise that the main character and I share a name as well as many other tells, she starts off in her best friends shadow unable to tell the person she likes how she feels, as the story grows her best friends boyfriend breaks up with her so Hannah’s grand plan to help her best friend forget the ex might just also fix it for Hannah little does she know that she’s so wrong.
The pain and joy of young love, I felt every emotion with this story even shed a tear a true Romeo and Juliet (minus the death). Thoroughly great story loved it!
Thank you for sharing this book with me! I received an Advanced Review copy of this book for free however this review is completely voluntary and contains all my own opinions.
The pain and joy of young love, I felt every emotion with this story even shed a tear a true Romeo and Juliet (minus the death). Thoroughly great story loved it!
Thank you for sharing this book with me! I received an Advanced Review copy of this book for free however this review is completely voluntary and contains all my own opinions.
March 19, 2024
This was a great YA book with all the angst of friendship and relationships. I loved all different representation shown in the story. It was great to get the point of view of the popular girl's best friend and all the drama and toxicity that ususally comes with that. I found myself several times wanting to shake up the popular girl to actually be a better friend. I was very happy with how things ended.
March 27, 2024
This was so cute! I loved it!
I’ve kind of stepped away from YA contemporary in recent years, but this book really intrigued me. It’s kind of a YA version of Something Borrowed, but with a much stronger emphasis on female friendship.
I was expecting this to be more romance focused but it really wasn’t. It was more about the friendship between Hannah and Braelyn. I liked how complicated and how nuanced their friendship was. Brae is the most popular girl in school and Hannah has some insecurity about feeling “less than” when compared to her popular best friend. I was worried Brae would be a “mean girl” but while she did make some catty comments, she wasn’t really like that which was refreshing.
I loved Seth. He was such a sweetheart and charming and funny. He and Hannah had some very sweet moments together. And what I found most refreshing of all was that Seth was totally honest and open about his feelings. There was no game playing or miscommunication trope here and it was really nice to see.
The book was also very readable. I liked the writing style and flew through the book. Definitely recommend!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I’ve kind of stepped away from YA contemporary in recent years, but this book really intrigued me. It’s kind of a YA version of Something Borrowed, but with a much stronger emphasis on female friendship.
I was expecting this to be more romance focused but it really wasn’t. It was more about the friendship between Hannah and Braelyn. I liked how complicated and how nuanced their friendship was. Brae is the most popular girl in school and Hannah has some insecurity about feeling “less than” when compared to her popular best friend. I was worried Brae would be a “mean girl” but while she did make some catty comments, she wasn’t really like that which was refreshing.
I loved Seth. He was such a sweetheart and charming and funny. He and Hannah had some very sweet moments together. And what I found most refreshing of all was that Seth was totally honest and open about his feelings. There was no game playing or miscommunication trope here and it was really nice to see.
The book was also very readable. I liked the writing style and flew through the book. Definitely recommend!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 29, 2024
How to Get Over your (Best Friend’s) Ex by Kristi McManus is a dramatic forbidden love novel where a guy has gotten in between the friendship of two best friends.
I have never really imagined how a friendship can be a guy, but I think the author wrote this novel well enough to show the hidden feelings and the struggle of getting over someone. I think the author really described the feelings of guilt, the time it takes to get over someone when breaking up in a relationship, and also the thoughts and feelings of loving someone that you shouldn’t love. There were funny moments, and I think I was on the edge of my seat wondering how the bubble would burst.
Of course, I would have loved if the main character could have spoken up for herself more. However, I truly saw the growth of the character as she spoke more for herself, how she spoke more about her own feelings. You know, I also felt that Seth was a good character, but goodness does that boy have a thick head. There were a lot of things I was frustrated with, but I don’t really think that comes from the author not writing the story well, but it comes from the author writing the story too well. Since they are all in high school, I could see the lack of maturity, but the author wrote all of the character’s growth well, so I liked the story!
I would recommend this book to anyone who wants a forbidden love romance in high school.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I have never really imagined how a friendship can be a guy, but I think the author wrote this novel well enough to show the hidden feelings and the struggle of getting over someone. I think the author really described the feelings of guilt, the time it takes to get over someone when breaking up in a relationship, and also the thoughts and feelings of loving someone that you shouldn’t love. There were funny moments, and I think I was on the edge of my seat wondering how the bubble would burst.
Of course, I would have loved if the main character could have spoken up for herself more. However, I truly saw the growth of the character as she spoke more for herself, how she spoke more about her own feelings. You know, I also felt that Seth was a good character, but goodness does that boy have a thick head. There were a lot of things I was frustrated with, but I don’t really think that comes from the author not writing the story well, but it comes from the author writing the story too well. Since they are all in high school, I could see the lack of maturity, but the author wrote all of the character’s growth well, so I liked the story!
I would recommend this book to anyone who wants a forbidden love romance in high school.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 9, 2024
4 1/2 ⭐️
I went into this book with no idea what it was about. I'm happy I did! Overall, I really enjoyed the book. It's a YA novel about the angst of friendships and youthful love. I especially enjoyed the strong emphasis on female friendship.
The story is told solely from Hannah's perspective. We have her best friend, Braelyn, and her boyfriend, Seth. Who met Hannah initially and became fast friends. Braelyn is the most popular girl, while Seth is the jock. Hannah is unsure and doubts herself. What I enjoyed about the book was that it concentrated on the girls' friendship rather than the romance side.
I adored Seth. He was great. While he wasn't always open about his feelings, when he did, it was pleasant to read. There is no miscommunication or game playing.
This is the first book I've read by Kristi. I enjoy her writing style; it's easy to read and its content is relevant. It made it a quick read.
Thank you to Kristi McManus and BookSirens for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
I went into this book with no idea what it was about. I'm happy I did! Overall, I really enjoyed the book. It's a YA novel about the angst of friendships and youthful love. I especially enjoyed the strong emphasis on female friendship.
The story is told solely from Hannah's perspective. We have her best friend, Braelyn, and her boyfriend, Seth. Who met Hannah initially and became fast friends. Braelyn is the most popular girl, while Seth is the jock. Hannah is unsure and doubts herself. What I enjoyed about the book was that it concentrated on the girls' friendship rather than the romance side.
I adored Seth. He was great. While he wasn't always open about his feelings, when he did, it was pleasant to read. There is no miscommunication or game playing.
This is the first book I've read by Kristi. I enjoy her writing style; it's easy to read and its content is relevant. It made it a quick read.
Thank you to Kristi McManus and BookSirens for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
April 4, 2024
I received a copy of this book for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you BookSirens for a copy of this book.
Overall, I quite liked this book; I read it in one sitting. It was a cutesy, fluffy teen romance, and in all honesty, it made me sorta reminiscent of when I was that age. There were scenes when I was kicking and giggling like a little kid because I was so excited, and honestly, it caught me by surprise how much I enjoyed this.
Whilst this is marketed as a romance, it's more focused on the friendship between Hannah (the main character we read the POV of) and her best friend Brae.
One thing I liked about this story was how well the forbidden romance trope was written - it's a trope I didn't really think would go into a contemporary romance because it feels a tad dramatic in real life, however in this book it was written really well. Brae is this really popular mean girl who basically runs her year group, if not the school, and Hannah is her best friend. Of course exes are off limits, so of course it's a forbidden romance.
I was a few pages in and I'd already decided I hated Brae. There's a scene where she says "cute outfit" followed by "ugliest outfit ever", and it was giving huge Regina George vibes.... "we're seeing that movie you wanted to see", I hate this b*tch. Like Brae makes a lot of catty remarks, but just saying to Hannah that they're seeing the movie Hannah wants to see really just took the cake for me. I hated Brae. She's 100% the type of character I love to hate. Also the way she uses instagram to start rumours, it felt very modern burn book and I really liked it. Honestly, I kinda wanted to see that being utilised a little bit more but that isn't a huge part of the story.
Seth was lovable, and he and Hannah had some really cute moments together, you could see how much they fit. I liked the whole Romeo & Juliet thing they had going on between them. There were no miscommunication tropes, Seth was honest with Hannah about how he felt about her, and overall it just felt like a healthy romance between them two.
It's stated the characters are juniors... I don't know what age that translates to as I'm in the UK and our schooling system isn't like that, but I think that puts them around 15/16? The characters are really immature in the way that age is immature. The writer really nailed the high school drama that goes down, and how a fight with your best friend feels like the end of the world.
I liked seeing Hannah's development throughout the book, and how she slowly started speaking up for herself.
It felt very disney in regards to parents - Brae's parents were sort of used to explain why she was a mean girl. Hannah's parents were there at the beginning, disappeared for a bit because they weren't relevant to the plot, and came back at the end to give motherly advice.
I could definitely see this having sequels that followed the other characters like Erin and Michelle, maybe even Alex. Maybe even Brae after she's left high school.
Overall, it was well written, and flowed really nice. I liked the writing style, and felt the high school relationships and personalities were captured perfectly.
Overall, I quite liked this book; I read it in one sitting. It was a cutesy, fluffy teen romance, and in all honesty, it made me sorta reminiscent of when I was that age. There were scenes when I was kicking and giggling like a little kid because I was so excited, and honestly, it caught me by surprise how much I enjoyed this.
Whilst this is marketed as a romance, it's more focused on the friendship between Hannah (the main character we read the POV of) and her best friend Brae.
One thing I liked about this story was how well the forbidden romance trope was written - it's a trope I didn't really think would go into a contemporary romance because it feels a tad dramatic in real life, however in this book it was written really well. Brae is this really popular mean girl who basically runs her year group, if not the school, and Hannah is her best friend. Of course exes are off limits, so of course it's a forbidden romance.
I was a few pages in and I'd already decided I hated Brae. There's a scene where she says "cute outfit" followed by "ugliest outfit ever", and it was giving huge Regina George vibes.... "we're seeing that movie you wanted to see", I hate this b*tch. Like Brae makes a lot of catty remarks, but just saying to Hannah that they're seeing the movie Hannah wants to see really just took the cake for me. I hated Brae. She's 100% the type of character I love to hate. Also the way she uses instagram to start rumours, it felt very modern burn book and I really liked it. Honestly, I kinda wanted to see that being utilised a little bit more but that isn't a huge part of the story.
Seth was lovable, and he and Hannah had some really cute moments together, you could see how much they fit. I liked the whole Romeo & Juliet thing they had going on between them. There were no miscommunication tropes, Seth was honest with Hannah about how he felt about her, and overall it just felt like a healthy romance between them two.
It's stated the characters are juniors... I don't know what age that translates to as I'm in the UK and our schooling system isn't like that, but I think that puts them around 15/16? The characters are really immature in the way that age is immature. The writer really nailed the high school drama that goes down, and how a fight with your best friend feels like the end of the world.
I liked seeing Hannah's development throughout the book, and how she slowly started speaking up for herself.
It felt very disney in regards to parents - Brae's parents were sort of used to explain why she was a mean girl. Hannah's parents were there at the beginning, disappeared for a bit because they weren't relevant to the plot, and came back at the end to give motherly advice.
I could definitely see this having sequels that followed the other characters like Erin and Michelle, maybe even Alex. Maybe even Brae after she's left high school.
Overall, it was well written, and flowed really nice. I liked the writing style, and felt the high school relationships and personalities were captured perfectly.
July 3, 2024
I'm a YA romcom girly at heart, always have been and always will be!
This is def a book that high school me would have devoured in one day, and it's a book that adult me also devoured in one day.
Kristi delivered on this one. The angst? The interpersonal DRAMA that only teenagers can have? Girl code? The insecurities and growing pains that come with being in high school?? Immaculate.
That's not to mention the writing style, character growth, and many other things I could praise about.
I'm so excited to see that this is a debut novel and I can't wait to read more from the author!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
This is def a book that high school me would have devoured in one day, and it's a book that adult me also devoured in one day.
Kristi delivered on this one. The angst? The interpersonal DRAMA that only teenagers can have? Girl code? The insecurities and growing pains that come with being in high school?? Immaculate.
That's not to mention the writing style, character growth, and many other things I could praise about.
I'm so excited to see that this is a debut novel and I can't wait to read more from the author!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
February 29, 2024
Disclaimer: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you to BookSirens for giving me this recommendation!
I inhaled this book. Like, genuinely. I read it in one sitting. I don’t know what it is about cute YA rom-coms, but they always just hit the spot for cheesiness and drama. While I thought Hannah was just going to be a shallow archetype at first, “not-like-other-girlism,” with her brown hair and not blue eyes, I was (thankfully) proven wrong! That’s not to say that this book was entirely devoid of those kind of sentiments, but they weren’t as prominent as the book went on. It kind of made sense for the plot, the basis/premise of the conflict, and ultimately the resolution. I think this would be a great read for YA readers, particularly those in grades 7 through 10, where boys start to come in between friendships; either on purpose or by accident. The resolution here (no spoilers, I promise) is to love yourself, and to not always take the backseat when living your life. Your opinions and feelings matter too!! (Is that cheesy? Maybe. But who cares! Be cheesy, be fun, HAVE fun!
Braelyn, Hannah’s best friend who was dating Seth (the boy Hannah has had a crush on since meeting but never told anyone, because #peoplepleaser) was a tad obnoxious. She felt downright mean at some points of the story, and I feel like that was brushed off and not really resolved even through the main conflict. Personally, I would have preferred a bit more fleshed out conversation about her treatment of Hannah, and maybe an apology for sometimes treating her as an accessory (I know they were best friends and she didn’t mean a lot of the stuff she said but stiiiiiillllll). Hannah was too people pleaser-y (not a word, I know. Also the call is coming from inside the house from me here too but hey shhh)
Seth was a great character too—very swoony. Loved the ties to ‘Romeo and Juliet;’ foreshadowing, anyone? (If you know, you know :))
This book genuinely sparked joy for me, even in my ripe old age (of 22). I loved how there was so much representation, especially queer representation, that wasn’t just haphazardly thrown in. McManus really did a great job of incorporating characters that didn’t serve just as mere tokens for brownie points. Hannah’s moms were cute af, and Erin’s character was great. Loved them, although I would have loved to see more of them (Erin spin-off??? Question mark??) Oh and let’s not forget Michelle who was also a queen I would like stories about all of them, please and thank you 🫣 :p
Anyways, I’m gonna wrap this up cause I’m rambling like I’m back in middle school (this book made me feel like that… in the BEST way possible. I’m a sucker for nostalgia I’m sorry like adulthood sucks sometimes lol)
I inhaled this book. Like, genuinely. I read it in one sitting. I don’t know what it is about cute YA rom-coms, but they always just hit the spot for cheesiness and drama. While I thought Hannah was just going to be a shallow archetype at first, “not-like-other-girlism,” with her brown hair and not blue eyes, I was (thankfully) proven wrong! That’s not to say that this book was entirely devoid of those kind of sentiments, but they weren’t as prominent as the book went on. It kind of made sense for the plot, the basis/premise of the conflict, and ultimately the resolution. I think this would be a great read for YA readers, particularly those in grades 7 through 10, where boys start to come in between friendships; either on purpose or by accident. The resolution here (no spoilers, I promise) is to love yourself, and to not always take the backseat when living your life. Your opinions and feelings matter too!! (Is that cheesy? Maybe. But who cares! Be cheesy, be fun, HAVE fun!
Braelyn, Hannah’s best friend who was dating Seth (the boy Hannah has had a crush on since meeting but never told anyone, because #peoplepleaser) was a tad obnoxious. She felt downright mean at some points of the story, and I feel like that was brushed off and not really resolved even through the main conflict. Personally, I would have preferred a bit more fleshed out conversation about her treatment of Hannah, and maybe an apology for sometimes treating her as an accessory (I know they were best friends and she didn’t mean a lot of the stuff she said but stiiiiiillllll). Hannah was too people pleaser-y (not a word, I know. Also the call is coming from inside the house from me here too but hey shhh)
Seth was a great character too—very swoony. Loved the ties to ‘Romeo and Juliet;’ foreshadowing, anyone? (If you know, you know :))
This book genuinely sparked joy for me, even in my ripe old age (of 22). I loved how there was so much representation, especially queer representation, that wasn’t just haphazardly thrown in. McManus really did a great job of incorporating characters that didn’t serve just as mere tokens for brownie points. Hannah’s moms were cute af, and Erin’s character was great. Loved them, although I would have loved to see more of them (Erin spin-off??? Question mark??) Oh and let’s not forget Michelle who was also a queen I would like stories about all of them, please and thank you 🫣 :p
Anyways, I’m gonna wrap this up cause I’m rambling like I’m back in middle school (this book made me feel like that… in the BEST way possible. I’m a sucker for nostalgia I’m sorry like adulthood sucks sometimes lol)
April 10, 2024
This was a great book about relationships, high-stakes drama (at least in the realm of high school) as well as emotional growth and learning to find your own path and learning to prioritize your happiness.
We have an unlikely pairing, popular queen bee Braelyn (who would be considered a Mean Girl) and wall flower shrinking violet Hannah, best friends since very young kids. Hannah is secretly in love with Seth, her best's friend's boyfriend since she had first met him, but because she doesn't speak up for herself, Seth ends up with Braelyn instead, leaving her love with him unrequited despite keeping a close friendship.
All this changes when Seth suddenly breaks up with Brae, leaving her heart in shambles. Hannah makes it her mission to help Brae get over Seth in six steps while secretly working the program too to help get over her own crush for Seth, accepting her fate to never pursue him since it is against their Friendship Code to get involved with an ex. It becomes complicated when she finds out that Seth is as in love with her as she is with him. Does she betray her trust and friendship with Brae, or does she betray her heart?
We go through all the different steps along with Hannah and Braelyn, and its entertaining and insightful as they progress. Honestly, I wish I could have known about these steps when I went through my own breakup!
This was a sweet and touching story that actually focused more on the friendship between Brae and Hannah than on the romance between Seth and Hannah, and I was all for it. I found myself very invested in them. They had such a sweet friendship, the way the characters were all written made them all very well fleshed out and loveable. I even had a soft spot for Brae despite her flaws and the psych student in me could easily see where her behaviors came from.
The writing was very good, fast paced, but well-thought out and explained as far as Hannah's emotions went, and I could feel the highs and lows at each turn of the story. There were several great moments that turned up the angst between Seth and Hannah and the tension as Hannah struggles with the desires of her own heart. The climax left me reeling and shocked, as only high school drama could be, which this story definitely delivered hot.
The ending was so sweet, and a nice finishing touch to a great love story between two friends.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
We have an unlikely pairing, popular queen bee Braelyn (who would be considered a Mean Girl) and wall flower shrinking violet Hannah, best friends since very young kids. Hannah is secretly in love with Seth, her best's friend's boyfriend since she had first met him, but because she doesn't speak up for herself, Seth ends up with Braelyn instead, leaving her love with him unrequited despite keeping a close friendship.
All this changes when Seth suddenly breaks up with Brae, leaving her heart in shambles. Hannah makes it her mission to help Brae get over Seth in six steps while secretly working the program too to help get over her own crush for Seth, accepting her fate to never pursue him since it is against their Friendship Code to get involved with an ex. It becomes complicated when she finds out that Seth is as in love with her as she is with him. Does she betray her trust and friendship with Brae, or does she betray her heart?
We go through all the different steps along with Hannah and Braelyn, and its entertaining and insightful as they progress. Honestly, I wish I could have known about these steps when I went through my own breakup!
This was a sweet and touching story that actually focused more on the friendship between Brae and Hannah than on the romance between Seth and Hannah, and I was all for it. I found myself very invested in them. They had such a sweet friendship, the way the characters were all written made them all very well fleshed out and loveable. I even had a soft spot for Brae despite her flaws and the psych student in me could easily see where her behaviors came from.
The writing was very good, fast paced, but well-thought out and explained as far as Hannah's emotions went, and I could feel the highs and lows at each turn of the story. There were several great moments that turned up the angst between Seth and Hannah and the tension as Hannah struggles with the desires of her own heart. The climax left me reeling and shocked, as only high school drama could be, which this story definitely delivered hot.
The ending was so sweet, and a nice finishing touch to a great love story between two friends.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 5, 2024
I got immediate Mean Girls meets Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (without the magic jeans) vibes!
Hannah’s best friend Brae is a little bit dramatic, extremely popular and that girl that everyone wants to be and be with. She’s dating Seth, the boy Hannah has had a crush on even before he and Brae got together. Now that Seth broke up with Brae, Hannah is pouring all of her free time into helping Brae with a six step plan to get over her ex, all while trying to follow along to get over him herself. All of this is easier than it sounds when Seth keeps messaging her and offering his help in math, anything to keep seeing her. But Hannah can’t help but feel she’s betraying Brae by spending any amount of time with Seth, especially because she’s still not over her crush and she has a feeling he might like her back. Is there a way that Hannah can get the guy and still keep her best friend?
This was so cute and incredibly sweet! Hannah and Brae were unlikely best friends as Hannah was pretty innocent and a people pleaser and Brae was used to getting whatever she wanted. They do say that opposites attract and that was absolutely the case here. I think this was a coming of age novel more than anything for both of the girls. Hannah needed to learn that her feelings and desires were valid and she needed to put herself first sometimes. Brae’s lesson was learning that she needed to not be so self absorbed and that popularity truly isn’t everything. I loved watching their friendship evolve!
Seth was the cutest and I loved his golden retriever nature. I wish we got a little more of his individual story, but I loved him all the same. Honestly, the perfect book boyfriend!
I really enjoyed this cute, fast paced novel about friendships and first loves! A must read for anyone looking for a feel good story!
Hannah’s best friend Brae is a little bit dramatic, extremely popular and that girl that everyone wants to be and be with. She’s dating Seth, the boy Hannah has had a crush on even before he and Brae got together. Now that Seth broke up with Brae, Hannah is pouring all of her free time into helping Brae with a six step plan to get over her ex, all while trying to follow along to get over him herself. All of this is easier than it sounds when Seth keeps messaging her and offering his help in math, anything to keep seeing her. But Hannah can’t help but feel she’s betraying Brae by spending any amount of time with Seth, especially because she’s still not over her crush and she has a feeling he might like her back. Is there a way that Hannah can get the guy and still keep her best friend?
This was so cute and incredibly sweet! Hannah and Brae were unlikely best friends as Hannah was pretty innocent and a people pleaser and Brae was used to getting whatever she wanted. They do say that opposites attract and that was absolutely the case here. I think this was a coming of age novel more than anything for both of the girls. Hannah needed to learn that her feelings and desires were valid and she needed to put herself first sometimes. Brae’s lesson was learning that she needed to not be so self absorbed and that popularity truly isn’t everything. I loved watching their friendship evolve!
Seth was the cutest and I loved his golden retriever nature. I wish we got a little more of his individual story, but I loved him all the same. Honestly, the perfect book boyfriend!
I really enjoyed this cute, fast paced novel about friendships and first loves! A must read for anyone looking for a feel good story!
June 19, 2024
My reading experience with this book was absolutely delightful. I loved Hannah and Seth. The chemistry between the two of them was palpable - lots of fluttery feelings on my end. I was so worried going into it that I was going to have to summer through a best friend that turned out to be as mean girl. As it turns out, Brae is a very good friend and most of the issues that ever arise are due to Hannah inability to speak up, not because she is made to feel less. This book is as much about friendship as it is a romance. The romance actually take a back seat as Hannah tries to get over Seth while Brae does the same. We get to experience a fairly solid friendship between the two girls as they navigate heartbreak. Seth is not pushy, he is understanding and tries to respect the boundaries that Hannah has put up; theirs is also a solid friendship.
I highly recommend this story as a light summer read. It is full of friendship, heartache, love and fun.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. The opinions expressed are honest and my own.
I highly recommend this story as a light summer read. It is full of friendship, heartache, love and fun.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. The opinions expressed are honest and my own.
June 23, 2024
Disclaimer: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It was a good read. The plot was very unique and I don’t think I have read something with a similar plot.
The blurb got me excited and I really wanted to know how exactly would Hannah be with the one she loves because her situation is impossible.
The novel and the characters are written well. The characters are quite different as well, they are not your cliché high school characters. All the characters had a development arc. I really liked that as the book ended the characters were better than they were first introduced to us.
There were points in the book when I was frustrated with the characters. But I guess it would be odd if high school students won’t annoy you.
*Spoilers*
I really didn’t like what Seth did. Mine maybe an unpopular opinion but I think he shouldn’t have asked Brae out if he already liked Hannah. He should’ve known that then there would be no chance with Hannah. I don’t know if my thinking is old school but I would’ve liked Seth better if he didn’t like her from the beginning.
All in all, I enjoyed reading it and it was worth the time.
It was a good read. The plot was very unique and I don’t think I have read something with a similar plot.
The blurb got me excited and I really wanted to know how exactly would Hannah be with the one she loves because her situation is impossible.
The novel and the characters are written well. The characters are quite different as well, they are not your cliché high school characters. All the characters had a development arc. I really liked that as the book ended the characters were better than they were first introduced to us.
There were points in the book when I was frustrated with the characters. But I guess it would be odd if high school students won’t annoy you.
*Spoilers*
I really didn’t like what Seth did. Mine maybe an unpopular opinion but I think he shouldn’t have asked Brae out if he already liked Hannah. He should’ve known that then there would be no chance with Hannah. I don’t know if my thinking is old school but I would’ve liked Seth better if he didn’t like her from the beginning.
All in all, I enjoyed reading it and it was worth the time.
June 28, 2024
Love isn’t supposed to be complicated… but like everything else in life, supposed to doesn’t always happen. Hannah and Braelyn have been best friends forever, but with Hannah living in Braelyn’s shadow. Seth moves to town and catches both Hannah’s and Braelyn’s eye. Seth and Braelyn start to date, but their relationship ends. Enter the tale of forbidden love.
Although I read the synopsis and thought it was interesting, I wasn’t sure how this would play out. I thought this would be romance-heavy, but I was pleasantly surprised that this was more about Hannah’s friendship with Braelyn. Don’t get me wrong. You get romance with Hannah and Seth, but that wasn’t the main point of this story.
I thought Seth was absolutely adorable, and I loved watching Hannah grow into her own. I wasn’t a massive fan of Braelyn. There were moments when she was unnecessarily cruel to Hannah, making me feel like Hannah was better off without her.
I appreciated that Seth was open about what he was feeling. It was refreshing to see that. I really enjoyed this!
Although I read the synopsis and thought it was interesting, I wasn’t sure how this would play out. I thought this would be romance-heavy, but I was pleasantly surprised that this was more about Hannah’s friendship with Braelyn. Don’t get me wrong. You get romance with Hannah and Seth, but that wasn’t the main point of this story.
I thought Seth was absolutely adorable, and I loved watching Hannah grow into her own. I wasn’t a massive fan of Braelyn. There were moments when she was unnecessarily cruel to Hannah, making me feel like Hannah was better off without her.
I appreciated that Seth was open about what he was feeling. It was refreshing to see that. I really enjoyed this!
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July 7, 2024An easy-to-read, teen romance. I was drawn in from the beginning. I instantly got ‘mean girls’ vibes and I found it very enjoyable.
The story and concept was predictable and obvious what was going to happen but that was also part of the charm to this book.
I loved the characters, especially the friendship between Hannah and Brae and the whole Romeo and Juliet thing that Seth and Hannah had going on was literally the cutest.
I believe this book really delved into the mind of a being a teenage girl with all of the drama that entails including first loves, school reputations, friendships and the navigation of it all. I think the author truly nailed how she incorporated this into the story. I found it relatable and could put myself in her shoes (albeit a fair few years ago).
I also liked seeing the main character Hannah’s development throughout the book. Her character grew through her experiences and really came out better for it.
Overall, I found this to be a thoroughly enjoyable and cozy read and would definitely recommend it.
The story and concept was predictable and obvious what was going to happen but that was also part of the charm to this book.
I loved the characters, especially the friendship between Hannah and Brae and the whole Romeo and Juliet thing that Seth and Hannah had going on was literally the cutest.
I believe this book really delved into the mind of a being a teenage girl with all of the drama that entails including first loves, school reputations, friendships and the navigation of it all. I think the author truly nailed how she incorporated this into the story. I found it relatable and could put myself in her shoes (albeit a fair few years ago).
I also liked seeing the main character Hannah’s development throughout the book. Her character grew through her experiences and really came out better for it.
Overall, I found this to be a thoroughly enjoyable and cozy read and would definitely recommend it.
May 16, 2024
This was a first time read for me by this author, so I didn't have any expectations going into it. I don't read many YA books, but I was very pleasantly surprised as I really enjoyed it. Hannah has been friends with Brae since they were young, but she has always lived in her shadow. When Seth comes on the scene, Hannah develops an instant crush on him. Before she even has a chance to act on it, Brae, of course, whisks his attention away. After dating for a while, Brae and Seth eventually break up, and as always, Hannah is there to pick up the pieces. But when Hannah finds out she is the reason they broke up, she is torn between her loyalty to Brae and what she could possibly have with Seth.
The story definitely had romance, but I liked that the focus was more on the female relationship. The author did a nice job of showcasing the myriad of feelings and the struggles a person goes through when getting over someone and the guilt felt when you love someone you shouldn't. Overall, a nicely-written story with interesting characters that kept my interest all the way through.
I received a complimentary from BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving my review.
The story definitely had romance, but I liked that the focus was more on the female relationship. The author did a nice job of showcasing the myriad of feelings and the struggles a person goes through when getting over someone and the guilt felt when you love someone you shouldn't. Overall, a nicely-written story with interesting characters that kept my interest all the way through.
I received a complimentary from BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving my review.
March 28, 2024
An emotional journey through the complexities of High School drama, emotions, friendships, love interests and coming to understand who you really are (sometimes apart from the people you've always been in the shadow of or influenced by).
I expected something quirky and slightly cliche. However, this author delivered something much deeper and worth reading. Navigating the fishbowl mentality of highschool thinking can be difficult. However this author did just that. The character development, and internal struggles of the main character were superbly handled. In fact there were a few times my stomach got tied in knots for the MFC.
This book is not a long read - but it is an enjoyable read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I expected something quirky and slightly cliche. However, this author delivered something much deeper and worth reading. Navigating the fishbowl mentality of highschool thinking can be difficult. However this author did just that. The character development, and internal struggles of the main character were superbly handled. In fact there were a few times my stomach got tied in knots for the MFC.
This book is not a long read - but it is an enjoyable read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 24, 2024
From the get-go, the title of the book caught my attention. As soon as I dove into it, the story immediately peaked my interest. Kristi McManus wastes no time by giving you exactly what you need for the back-story. It's quick and to the point but definitely effective. The drama also starts immediately and it keeps you turning the page to find out what happens next. While it is a YA romance novel, it really centers around the relationship between BFFs, Hannah & Brae. There is a good amount of angsty(ish) moments between Seth and Hannah as they try to figure out their relationship and what to do given their situation, which I thoroughly enjoyed to read. God, I just love the longing, star-crossed lovers trope so much.
June 19, 2024
Best YA of the year so far? For me definitely yes. It took me a while reading and finishing it but only bc my programme was extremely full.
Concerning the book, now..in 4 words, it has it all!! And even more!
Beloved tropes, teenagement psychology, angst and feelings. Friendship, love and super melting scenes.
I absolutely loved the characters, not all actually bc Brae..ok girl u could have done something(ssss) earlier..
I loved the evolution, loved the thoughts -, hesitations - courage-self esteem (or not) - and love beyond and above all.
Writing this review voluntarily after receiving an ARC.
Concerning the book, now..in 4 words, it has it all!! And even more!
Beloved tropes, teenagement psychology, angst and feelings. Friendship, love and super melting scenes.
I absolutely loved the characters, not all actually bc Brae..ok girl u could have done something(ssss) earlier..
I loved the evolution, loved the thoughts -, hesitations - courage-self esteem (or not) - and love beyond and above all.
Writing this review voluntarily after receiving an ARC.
April 4, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you booksirens for the e-arc
Synopsis:
In "How to Get Over Your (Best Friend's) Ex" by Kristi McManus, readers are whisked into the tumultuous world of high school drama, friendship, and unrequited love. The story revolves around Hannah Taylor, who has spent her high school years living in the shadow of her best friend, Braelyn. Everything changes when Seth, a charming newcomer, enters their lives, sparking feelings in Hannah that she's never experienced before. However, when Seth and Braelyn become an item, Hannah finds herself torn between her loyalty to her friend and her growing affection for Seth.
Review:
"How to Get Over Your (Best Friend's) Ex" masterfully captures the complexity of teenage emotions and relationships. Author deftly explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and self-discovery, making this book a compelling and relatable read for young adults.
The character development in "How to Get Over Your (Best Friend's) Ex" is particularly noteworthy. Hannah's internal struggle between her feelings for Seth and her loyalty to Braelyn is portrayed with depth and authenticity, allowing readers to empathize with her dilemma. Braelyn's character adds another layer of complexity, as her actions and motivations challenge Hannah's perceptions of friendship and trust.
Kristi's writing style is engaging and immersive, drawing readers into the world of the characters and keeping them invested in the outcome of the story. The dialogue feels natural and authentic, capturing the banter and emotions of teenage friendships and romances.
One of the strengths of "How to Get Over Your (Best Friend's) Ex" is its exploration of the consequences of romantic entanglements within friendship circles. Kristi skillfully navigates the complexities of love triangles and unrequited feelings, presenting a nuanced portrayal of the dynamics between Hannah, Braelyn, and Seth.
Overall, "How to Get Over Your (Best Friend's) Ex" is a captivating and emotional journey that will resonate with readers of all ages. Kristi McManus has crafted a compelling story filled with heartache, friendship, and ultimately, the power of self-discovery.
Synopsis:
In "How to Get Over Your (Best Friend's) Ex" by Kristi McManus, readers are whisked into the tumultuous world of high school drama, friendship, and unrequited love. The story revolves around Hannah Taylor, who has spent her high school years living in the shadow of her best friend, Braelyn. Everything changes when Seth, a charming newcomer, enters their lives, sparking feelings in Hannah that she's never experienced before. However, when Seth and Braelyn become an item, Hannah finds herself torn between her loyalty to her friend and her growing affection for Seth.
Review:
"How to Get Over Your (Best Friend's) Ex" masterfully captures the complexity of teenage emotions and relationships. Author deftly explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and self-discovery, making this book a compelling and relatable read for young adults.
The character development in "How to Get Over Your (Best Friend's) Ex" is particularly noteworthy. Hannah's internal struggle between her feelings for Seth and her loyalty to Braelyn is portrayed with depth and authenticity, allowing readers to empathize with her dilemma. Braelyn's character adds another layer of complexity, as her actions and motivations challenge Hannah's perceptions of friendship and trust.
Kristi's writing style is engaging and immersive, drawing readers into the world of the characters and keeping them invested in the outcome of the story. The dialogue feels natural and authentic, capturing the banter and emotions of teenage friendships and romances.
One of the strengths of "How to Get Over Your (Best Friend's) Ex" is its exploration of the consequences of romantic entanglements within friendship circles. Kristi skillfully navigates the complexities of love triangles and unrequited feelings, presenting a nuanced portrayal of the dynamics between Hannah, Braelyn, and Seth.
Overall, "How to Get Over Your (Best Friend's) Ex" is a captivating and emotional journey that will resonate with readers of all ages. Kristi McManus has crafted a compelling story filled with heartache, friendship, and ultimately, the power of self-discovery.
June 9, 2024
A great YA novel with a situation that I think most people have experienced.
I really enjoyed this novel and it took me right back to being in school and the drama that came with it. I was really rooting for Hannah throughout most of the book, and wanted her to stand up to Brae for a lot of their interactions. I liked the little step by step that Hannah wrote for Brae (and herself) to get over Seth, and it was fun watching those points play out through the book.
A fun little novel and something lighthearted to read! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I really enjoyed this novel and it took me right back to being in school and the drama that came with it. I was really rooting for Hannah throughout most of the book, and wanted her to stand up to Brae for a lot of their interactions. I liked the little step by step that Hannah wrote for Brae (and herself) to get over Seth, and it was fun watching those points play out through the book.
A fun little novel and something lighthearted to read! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 13, 2024
This book is the quintessential YA rom com in the best way. It was so nostalgic to read and I ate it up in a day. It’s a little cliched and cheesy, but I feel like that’s kind of what you want in this kind of story. I love the emphasis on self growth, friendship, and the love story is so cute and satisfying. I would have adored this book back in the day and daydreamed about my own Seth. Also has lgbtq+ representation in a way that feels very organic.
Thank you book sirens and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!!
Thank you book sirens and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!!
June 1, 2024
This was one of the cutest books I’ve read recently! It was such a fun and easy read, could definitely be done in one sitting. High school me can relate to Hannah a little too well and left me with a lot of feelings I haven’t resolved in the past 10 years. Even though I’m not going to be an English teacher, I’m really excited to start finding books to share with my future students and this is one of them!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 4, 2024
A perfect YA book! I do not think I’m necessarily in the prime target group for this, since I rarely read YA – but I still loved it! I really felt the emotions Hannah went through in this one. As a teen, wanting to fit it – but not stand out – I felt seen! Made me remember all the emotions I went through at the age Hannah is. I liked that it had all different representation shown in the story. Just a thoroughly great story, and I really enjoyed this one. Absolutely recommended read!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 10, 2024
This was a really fun read! Really took me back to middle school and high school and all the drama and the complications that come with having a crush on the same boy and trying to stay best friends and sticking to the rules and all of that. It was a really fun in-between read to lighten the mood and just read without being too stressed, and I'd definitely recommend it. Also shoutout to including LGBTQ+ characters/relationships in a very normal way, without having the book be about that.
March 2, 2024
This was a really sweet feel good read. Although the characters in this book were a lot younger than my usual read, I enjoyed following the story and how loyal Hannah was to her friendship with Braelyn and dedicated to following through with promises they had made together as children. “Don’t date your best friends ex!” The easy chemistry between Hannah & Seth was really sweet, but more so was the strength of friendship between bestfriends Hannah & Braelyn.
I received this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
I received this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
March 27, 2024
A very cute first love, 'forbidden' romance. Hannah was a relatable MC who fell for the right guy at the wrong time. Her relationship with Brae was a friendship that i think every teenage girl has experienced in some way, and it really opened the conversation about being honest in our communications with friends and lovers.
June 11, 2024
Teenage love can be pretty complicated, especially when you fall for someone who you think is out of your league. Hannah fell for Seth from the first time she set her eyes on him. While they had so much in common, Hannah was too shy to confess her feelings for him, and he ended up in a relationship with her best friend Brae. Things have always come easily for Brae with her good looks and bratty attitude she's used to getting what she wants. After her relationship ends, Brae is inconsolable, and with the help of Hannah, she tries to get over Seth.
I really liked Hannah's character development throughout the story. She went from always putting others' feelings, wants, and needs before hers to standing up for herself and fighting for what she wants. Also, Seth's openness in communicating his feelings was so nice and I appreciated that he didn't try to force his feelings/wants onto anyone. While Brae was such a bratty character she eventually does show some character development and become a better friend.
Thanks at CamCat Books for the ARC copy! All thoughts are my own
I really liked Hannah's character development throughout the story. She went from always putting others' feelings, wants, and needs before hers to standing up for herself and fighting for what she wants. Also, Seth's openness in communicating his feelings was so nice and I appreciated that he didn't try to force his feelings/wants onto anyone. While Brae was such a bratty character she eventually does show some character development and become a better friend.
Thanks at CamCat Books for the ARC copy! All thoughts are my own
June 6, 2024
I really liked this quirky romcom. No one likes to be cheated on but our MC didn't take it lying down and went put to get theirs back. I thought the characters were charming and the book was well written. Overall, it was a very good read
I received an advanced copy of the book and am voluntarily leaving a review
I received an advanced copy of the book and am voluntarily leaving a review
June 10, 2024
This is a nice young adult romance that does a great job making the reader feel the angst and struggle that Hannah goes through dealing with first love and friendship. If you are an older reader, the author takes you back to high school where the most important things are friendships and falling in love. I truly enjoyed this book.
June 26, 2024
I feel like we kind of all have that one friend where we give a little more and they don’t always give as much as we do. Loved the story happy with how it ended and how their relationship ended. Whose relationship you might ask? Read to find out!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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