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A Story of Now #2
The Sum of These Things
This is an ACE for ISBN13:9783955334710 The Sum of These Things
The Sequel to A Story of Now.
Claire Pearson has already learned a few things this summer. Like falling for a girl is easy. Well, it is if that girl is Mia.
What Claire hasn’t learned yet is that now comes the hard part: learning to trust in this new relationship. And that isn’t easy when no one has ever given you a reason to trust before.
Then there’s the pressing question of what to do with her life. Claire’s new volunteer job working with kids offers a glimpse of a potential future, but it definitely isn’t something her pushy mother is going to like.
Still, everything feels hopeful as she embarks on the next chapter of her life, armed with new friends and the warm and funny Mia. But Claire quickly discovers that negotiating this new terrain of adulthood isn’t easy. Over the rest of this momentous summer, the biggest lesson Claire must learn is how not to let anything get in the way of her happiness. Especially herself.
The Sequel to A Story of Now.
Claire Pearson has already learned a few things this summer. Like falling for a girl is easy. Well, it is if that girl is Mia.
What Claire hasn’t learned yet is that now comes the hard part: learning to trust in this new relationship. And that isn’t easy when no one has ever given you a reason to trust before.
Then there’s the pressing question of what to do with her life. Claire’s new volunteer job working with kids offers a glimpse of a potential future, but it definitely isn’t something her pushy mother is going to like.
Still, everything feels hopeful as she embarks on the next chapter of her life, armed with new friends and the warm and funny Mia. But Claire quickly discovers that negotiating this new terrain of adulthood isn’t easy. Over the rest of this momentous summer, the biggest lesson Claire must learn is how not to let anything get in the way of her happiness. Especially herself.
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First published December 2, 2015
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February 24, 2017
Okay, wow. I have so many thoughts and feelings. I just read both books in this series in about three days, and one thing I'll say is that the two novels read like one book, one story. The Sum of These Things starts immediately after the events of A Story of Now, like immediately, so it all blends together. Many of the issues that were raised in the first book found closure in the second, though I never felt as though A Story of Now was incomplete.
Characterization in the first book was really exceptional, and somehow Emily O'Beirne managed to up her game here. I don't know if it's because so much groundwork for these characters had already been laid, or simply because the moments felt bigger and deeper, but those moments, those beautiful interpersonal moments, were simply exquisite. Not just the romantic moments between the leads, either; there were wonderful little exchanges between friends, parents, everyone. I felt those moments. They resonated.
So, I do have a pet peeve with romance novels, and it's really a problematic one; I hate it when romances rely on breakups to generate tension, and that's problematic because it occurs in aboooouuuut 98% of said stories. Except, it turns out I don't hate breakups, I just hate contrived plot devices. There is a breakup here, and just like everything that came before it and everything that came after it in the series, it felt natural. How did you do that, O'Beirne? How did you convince me that I was wrong about something I've spent so much time being pissy about?
I know exactly how she did it. In fact, I've already mentioned it: interpersonal moments. There's just no way to describe how very skilled this author is when it comes to writing characters who are present in those moments, characters who are fully aware of the fragility and importance of those moments. There's one scene under a tree on the university campus that will probably go down as one of my favorite scenes in this entire genre simply because the characters are talking through their problems, working through their fears with heartfelt communication and courageous vulnerability. It's just...it's perfect. It is simply, beautifully perfect, and it's stupidly rare in lesfic. Why is that? Seriously, why?
Gah. I never wanted this book to end. If the author spent the rest of her career adding titles to this series, I'd buy every last one of them. I'm on-board to read about these people, one summer at-a-time, until they celebrate their golden wedding anniversary. Get on that, O'Beirne. Point me at a Kickstarter campaign or a Change.org petition to make this thing happen.
Alright, enough gushing. This is a book review, so I need to criticize some stuff, because that's what you do in reviews. Uhh, there were a couple of times where there was an extra 'a' or 'the' or a missing 'of' or 'to'. Also, at one point during the book, I got hungry. I'm not sure that was the book's fault, but it's about the only other thing I can think of. So, I guess have a half sandwich available when you read it?
So, there you have it. A couple of reasons to read the book, and a moderate endorsement for supplemental sandwiches. If you read the first book, you probably don't even need this review. You already know O'Beirne can write, you already like the characters (though Claire does sort of implode/explode/allplode in a hideous way here). This one's pretty much a no-brainer: read it. I actually liked it even better than the first book, and I'm always right about the stuff I'm not wrong about. This is one of those things.
5 stars. Favorites shelf.
Characterization in the first book was really exceptional, and somehow Emily O'Beirne managed to up her game here. I don't know if it's because so much groundwork for these characters had already been laid, or simply because the moments felt bigger and deeper, but those moments, those beautiful interpersonal moments, were simply exquisite. Not just the romantic moments between the leads, either; there were wonderful little exchanges between friends, parents, everyone. I felt those moments. They resonated.
So, I do have a pet peeve with romance novels, and it's really a problematic one; I hate it when romances rely on breakups to generate tension, and that's problematic because it occurs in aboooouuuut 98% of said stories. Except, it turns out I don't hate breakups, I just hate contrived plot devices. There is a breakup here, and just like everything that came before it and everything that came after it in the series, it felt natural. How did you do that, O'Beirne? How did you convince me that I was wrong about something I've spent so much time being pissy about?
I know exactly how she did it. In fact, I've already mentioned it: interpersonal moments. There's just no way to describe how very skilled this author is when it comes to writing characters who are present in those moments, characters who are fully aware of the fragility and importance of those moments. There's one scene under a tree on the university campus that will probably go down as one of my favorite scenes in this entire genre simply because the characters are talking through their problems, working through their fears with heartfelt communication and courageous vulnerability. It's just...it's perfect. It is simply, beautifully perfect, and it's stupidly rare in lesfic. Why is that? Seriously, why?
Gah. I never wanted this book to end. If the author spent the rest of her career adding titles to this series, I'd buy every last one of them. I'm on-board to read about these people, one summer at-a-time, until they celebrate their golden wedding anniversary. Get on that, O'Beirne. Point me at a Kickstarter campaign or a Change.org petition to make this thing happen.
Alright, enough gushing. This is a book review, so I need to criticize some stuff, because that's what you do in reviews. Uhh, there were a couple of times where there was an extra 'a' or 'the' or a missing 'of' or 'to'. Also, at one point during the book, I got hungry. I'm not sure that was the book's fault, but it's about the only other thing I can think of. So, I guess have a half sandwich available when you read it?
So, there you have it. A couple of reasons to read the book, and a moderate endorsement for supplemental sandwiches. If you read the first book, you probably don't even need this review. You already know O'Beirne can write, you already like the characters (though Claire does sort of implode/explode/allplode in a hideous way here). This one's pretty much a no-brainer: read it. I actually liked it even better than the first book, and I'm always right about the stuff I'm not wrong about. This is one of those things.
5 stars. Favorites shelf.
December 18, 2015
Do you know that feeling where you totally excited but kind of terrified at the same time? Kind of like the start of a marathon you’ve been training months for, you know it’s going to be fine, but you really want that great finish. That is how I felt a few days ago when I started Emily O’Beirne’s newest book The Sum of These Things (A Story of Now #2). I absolutely adored her first book, A Story of Now. It unexpectedly stole my heart, and became one of my absolute favorite books. So, you can see how a sequel to one of your favorites is going to be either a renewal of your love or an utter disappointment. Well, I can honestly say Emily O’Beirne did a number on my heart again, everything, and I mean everything about this book was spectacular.
Mia and Claire are two amazing characters. They are so different from each other, and yet their relationship so spectacularly works. Each of them has her own character flaws, and it is the other’s strength. In the last book (pause if you have not read the last one, go get it now, read this later!), we saw how Mia wavered with her sexuality, second guessing Claire’s interest in her and finally making that giant leap of faith and getting the girl. Claire was the strong one, while never being in a relationship with another girl, she didn’t make a big fuss about it, and it wasn’t a huge deal to her. She liked Mia romantically and that was enough. In this latest book, Mia is the quiet strength of the duo.
While the romance is alive and well between Claire and Mia, life tends to get in the way of that all-consuming love. Claire goes from being super slacker to being right on the cusp of getting her life in order. She is applying herself in regards to figuring out who Claire wants to be. She tends bar to have a cash flow, but she has begun volunteering at a community center for kids as well. Her days are filled with playgrounds and grant writing, and her nights filled with slinging booze. While Claire is running ragged, Mia has much more free time before she begins her medical studies. Here is where the conflict of the book lies.
Mia’s freedom is where Claire’s insecurities find a foothold. Claire is confident in who she is, but she also has insecurities. In her mind she often questions, “Is she enough for someone”? Her mother’s constant slights over time have worn her down, and her failed past relationship with Brendan has made her take pause when Mia begins to flourish socially. She begins to question her worthiness.
The conflict is understandable and relatable, and the dialogue is what makes this book flat out amazing. In my opinion, Emily O’Beirne does dialogue and character development with the best of the best. The interactions between the characters are the highlights of the book. The dialogue is how real people talk, whether they're flirting, romancing or fighting, it is just good! Tying it back to my marathon analogy, Ms. O'Beirne would have totally qualified for Boston with this book. Happy reading!
Mia and Claire are two amazing characters. They are so different from each other, and yet their relationship so spectacularly works. Each of them has her own character flaws, and it is the other’s strength. In the last book (pause if you have not read the last one, go get it now, read this later!), we saw how Mia wavered with her sexuality, second guessing Claire’s interest in her and finally making that giant leap of faith and getting the girl. Claire was the strong one, while never being in a relationship with another girl, she didn’t make a big fuss about it, and it wasn’t a huge deal to her. She liked Mia romantically and that was enough. In this latest book, Mia is the quiet strength of the duo.
While the romance is alive and well between Claire and Mia, life tends to get in the way of that all-consuming love. Claire goes from being super slacker to being right on the cusp of getting her life in order. She is applying herself in regards to figuring out who Claire wants to be. She tends bar to have a cash flow, but she has begun volunteering at a community center for kids as well. Her days are filled with playgrounds and grant writing, and her nights filled with slinging booze. While Claire is running ragged, Mia has much more free time before she begins her medical studies. Here is where the conflict of the book lies.
Mia’s freedom is where Claire’s insecurities find a foothold. Claire is confident in who she is, but she also has insecurities. In her mind she often questions, “Is she enough for someone”? Her mother’s constant slights over time have worn her down, and her failed past relationship with Brendan has made her take pause when Mia begins to flourish socially. She begins to question her worthiness.
The conflict is understandable and relatable, and the dialogue is what makes this book flat out amazing. In my opinion, Emily O’Beirne does dialogue and character development with the best of the best. The interactions between the characters are the highlights of the book. The dialogue is how real people talk, whether they're flirting, romancing or fighting, it is just good! Tying it back to my marathon analogy, Ms. O'Beirne would have totally qualified for Boston with this book. Happy reading!
July 26, 2018
Well now I have to read all her damn books.
May 14, 2018
This is an excellent sequel to 'The Story of Now'. I wouldn't say this is a standalone at all. There are way too many references to what occurs in the first book and, if you're picking this up first, why haven't you read the first book yet? Go, go read it...and then come back here...
So many romances focus on the initial "falling in love" phase without seeing what occurs afterwards when conflicts creep into the relationship. Here, we get it in a really realistic way. And the conflict isn't just one "break up" trope that the couple spends the book leading up to and then recovering from. No, this book has conflicts layered throughout and comes in many forms:
How does a couple nurture a new relationship when one works a day shift and the other a night shift and they barely get to see each other?
What insecurities come in when one person continues to go out and meet many new people while the other is left out?
What happens when one in the relationship starts a new friendship with someone of the same sexual preference and is seen as a potential rival?
Who wins priority between friendship commitments vs each of the girlfriend's commitments?
And then there's the whole baggage each person brings to the relationship that creates internal turmoil and projects issues onto the other...it's a mess, isn't it?
The author expertly navigates these troubles, though, in a mature and completely realistic way. A couple of things I predicted to happen, because they're tired or easy tropes used in other books, actually didn't occur while things I'd never seen before were fleshed out. This was just really well done.
It was excellent to see two people in a couple handle their issues with maturity while falling prey to their own dysfunctions. With a few hiccups here and there, Claire and Mia are actually sensitive to each other and communicate. We don't have one in denial or pushing the other away for one big make up scene in the end. No, we get a lot of make up scenes as they move through their issues and come out the other side better for it.
There's an element of a 'coming out' story here, as well, that unfolds throughout the book...and, anyone that is LGBT or in a nonconventional relationship knows, coming out isn't a one time event. It happens every day. This was another piece that was nicely handled.
In addition to the rest of the story, I particularly enjoyed the relationship dynamic between Claire and her mother. I liked it just as well in the first book but the second book continues their arc. Claire's mother echoes my own in a lot of ways and I find that Claire and I share some of the same traits as a result so I could relate.
Like 'A Story of Now', this book isn't just about the main couple but about how Claire and Mia interact with many people, family and friends. Claire and Mia aren't this isolated microcosm and it just makes the story feel bigger.
The one complaint I have, though not really, is as another reviewer mentioned from the first book, is regarding the amount of alcohol consumed. I'm not a drinker and never have been and it's college, so I get it...my friends did live that way but, boy, my stomach churned each time and I nearly got a headache with every hangover. I was always relieved when Claire or Mia would decide to abstain.
I really enjoyed this and definitely recommend. For its well executed and refreshing content I give this about a 4.6 stars and round up to 5.
So many romances focus on the initial "falling in love" phase without seeing what occurs afterwards when conflicts creep into the relationship. Here, we get it in a really realistic way. And the conflict isn't just one "break up" trope that the couple spends the book leading up to and then recovering from. No, this book has conflicts layered throughout and comes in many forms:
How does a couple nurture a new relationship when one works a day shift and the other a night shift and they barely get to see each other?
What insecurities come in when one person continues to go out and meet many new people while the other is left out?
What happens when one in the relationship starts a new friendship with someone of the same sexual preference and is seen as a potential rival?
Who wins priority between friendship commitments vs each of the girlfriend's commitments?
And then there's the whole baggage each person brings to the relationship that creates internal turmoil and projects issues onto the other...it's a mess, isn't it?
The author expertly navigates these troubles, though, in a mature and completely realistic way. A couple of things I predicted to happen, because they're tired or easy tropes used in other books, actually didn't occur while things I'd never seen before were fleshed out. This was just really well done.
It was excellent to see two people in a couple handle their issues with maturity while falling prey to their own dysfunctions. With a few hiccups here and there, Claire and Mia are actually sensitive to each other and communicate. We don't have one in denial or pushing the other away for one big make up scene in the end. No, we get a lot of make up scenes as they move through their issues and come out the other side better for it.
There's an element of a 'coming out' story here, as well, that unfolds throughout the book...and, anyone that is LGBT or in a nonconventional relationship knows, coming out isn't a one time event. It happens every day. This was another piece that was nicely handled.
In addition to the rest of the story, I particularly enjoyed the relationship dynamic between Claire and her mother. I liked it just as well in the first book but the second book continues their arc. Claire's mother echoes my own in a lot of ways and I find that Claire and I share some of the same traits as a result so I could relate.
Like 'A Story of Now', this book isn't just about the main couple but about how Claire and Mia interact with many people, family and friends. Claire and Mia aren't this isolated microcosm and it just makes the story feel bigger.
The one complaint I have, though not really, is as another reviewer mentioned from the first book, is regarding the amount of alcohol consumed. I'm not a drinker and never have been and it's college, so I get it...my friends did live that way but, boy, my stomach churned each time and I nearly got a headache with every hangover. I was always relieved when Claire or Mia would decide to abstain.
I really enjoyed this and definitely recommend. For its well executed and refreshing content I give this about a 4.6 stars and round up to 5.
February 14, 2016
The plot is not so original, as it follows the old romance pattern: love, split, love again.
But the story is engaging, emotionally compelling, full of witty dialogs, all-round described characters, even the secundary ones.
It's a well written YA romance about understanding ourselves and our place in life, growing up, overcoming personal insecurities, finding the courage to stand against all odds, expecially inside the family.
The two main characters, Claire and Mia are really lovable.
I liked this chapter more than the previous one, A Story of Now, because it's a little more complex, but it's really one story. I read it one after the other and I found no gap between the two.
I liked it and recommend it.
But the story is engaging, emotionally compelling, full of witty dialogs, all-round described characters, even the secundary ones.
It's a well written YA romance about understanding ourselves and our place in life, growing up, overcoming personal insecurities, finding the courage to stand against all odds, expecially inside the family.
The two main characters, Claire and Mia are really lovable.
I liked this chapter more than the previous one, A Story of Now, because it's a little more complex, but it's really one story. I read it one after the other and I found no gap between the two.
I liked it and recommend it.
January 30, 2018
4.2 stars for both books. They're well written and it's not often I like a book so much that's in first person. But they were tough to get through for me.
When I read a good book or watch a good movie I tend to disappear, there is no me anymore, just the characters and everything they're going through. I'm simply incapable of distancing myself from these fictional characters, especially in this case where it's not only written in first person but also in present tense. So all that angst, uncertainty and insecurity hit me hard because of that. What Claire feels I feel on top of all the shit I have to deal in real life. So these two books ended up being a tough read for me due to the copious amounts of angst. In the end it was worth it though.
When I read a good book or watch a good movie I tend to disappear, there is no me anymore, just the characters and everything they're going through. I'm simply incapable of distancing myself from these fictional characters, especially in this case where it's not only written in first person but also in present tense. So all that angst, uncertainty and insecurity hit me hard because of that. What Claire feels I feel on top of all the shit I have to deal in real life. So these two books ended up being a tough read for me due to the copious amounts of angst. In the end it was worth it though.
January 5, 2016
I absolutely adored this book and am not sure where to start with this review too many good things to tell! I’ll try to keep it short.
I fell in love with the characters in 'A Story for Now' and my love continued to grow in this book. A big aspect of what I loved about this book is Mia and Claire's relationship which was a perfect example of what a real relationship looks like between two people made for each other. They have their issues and don't always get it right the first time round but continue to work each other out finding out what works! I loved that they were opposites that balanced each other out understanding what the other person needs. Emily did a wonderful job of giving us these beautiful moments with them showing us how extremely different they are yet are perfect for each other.
The secondary characters played such an important role in making this story enjoyable. I especially loved Cam and the sibling banter! A lot of funny moments that had me laughing out loud.
And I must say I am normally fairly impatient when reading a storyline and find that I need to keep to shorter books. This is the longest I have read and didn’t even notice how long it was because I was enjoying myself too much.
This book has definitely moved to one of my favourite books and I will now go into mourning for reaching the end and no more Claire and Mia!
I fell in love with the characters in 'A Story for Now' and my love continued to grow in this book. A big aspect of what I loved about this book is Mia and Claire's relationship which was a perfect example of what a real relationship looks like between two people made for each other. They have their issues and don't always get it right the first time round but continue to work each other out finding out what works! I loved that they were opposites that balanced each other out understanding what the other person needs. Emily did a wonderful job of giving us these beautiful moments with them showing us how extremely different they are yet are perfect for each other.
The secondary characters played such an important role in making this story enjoyable. I especially loved Cam and the sibling banter! A lot of funny moments that had me laughing out loud.
And I must say I am normally fairly impatient when reading a storyline and find that I need to keep to shorter books. This is the longest I have read and didn’t even notice how long it was because I was enjoying myself too much.
This book has definitely moved to one of my favourite books and I will now go into mourning for reaching the end and no more Claire and Mia!
December 21, 2015
I read these two books back to back which was nice. There was a LOT MORE extraneous verbosity in this one. The angst was high level! I had to remind self though, that these are young 20 somethings and that the angst is pretty high in general at that age! Overall this is a nice sequel. I would have done 3.5, but rounded up because I did really enjoy the story.
June 8, 2019
Yea, well, sort of reminds me why I don't read young adult fiction - slow so I sped it - wondered why I'd bothered at the end, but I did want to know the ending! (But not written for the likes of me, so Don't take my word for it.)
December 2, 2015
Read the full review on Bookaholics Not-So-Anonymous.
Note: This ARC was provided by Ylva Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
The Sum of These Things is the sequel to one of my top reads for 2015, The Story of Now. The fact that this is only author Emily O'Beirne's second novel highlights just how talented of a writer she is. The last time we saw twenty-year-old Claire Pearson, she was happy and had a girlfriend in the person of Mia Prince. But with all stories that give us the happily-ever-after we look for in romance novels, you wonder about what happens after. Stories continue, after all, because that's how real life works and not everything can be as perfect as it may seem. In the case of Claire and Mia, their relationship is still in that honeymoon stage where it feels as if the possibilities are endless. Of course, with the possibility of things going right is the real possibility of things going awry and how Claire deals with the latter is at the very crux of this story.
Claire is still finding her footing in the world she lives in, although she's making inroads as to which direction she'd like to go career-wise. The pressure to create a more solid life plan is constantly there, courtesy of her overbearing but concerned mother. Volunteering at a community center during the day and working at the bar at night gives her purpose and a source of income, respectively, but leaves little time for Claire to indulge in her still-new relationship with Mia and that becomes part of the reason why she feels as if Mia's forging new friendships with people that Claire knows little to nothing of affects her more than you would expect. Claire and Mia react to things differently and that becomes even clearer in this sequel. The both have patterns of behavior that they need to break free from or risk losing each other.
What I love best about this book duet is that it isn't merely about Claire's love story with Mia; it's about Claire's life story right now. Her situation, that of trying to figure out what it is she wants to do in the near and distant future, is a familiar one. She may not necessarily choose the same path that others think is best for her, but this is her journey, and if she gets lost along the way or takes a longer route, it still remains her journey. I think that's just one of the reasons that Claire was such an easy main character for me to relate to. I see a lot of me in her, both at that age and now. Claire, Mia, and their friends are all works in progress, as we all are, and witnessing their struggles and triumphs makes for a very endearing read. The Sum of These Things joins its fab predecessor on my list of 2015 favorites. I happily give it five-plus stars. ♥
Note: This ARC was provided by Ylva Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
The Sum of These Things is the sequel to one of my top reads for 2015, The Story of Now. The fact that this is only author Emily O'Beirne's second novel highlights just how talented of a writer she is. The last time we saw twenty-year-old Claire Pearson, she was happy and had a girlfriend in the person of Mia Prince. But with all stories that give us the happily-ever-after we look for in romance novels, you wonder about what happens after. Stories continue, after all, because that's how real life works and not everything can be as perfect as it may seem. In the case of Claire and Mia, their relationship is still in that honeymoon stage where it feels as if the possibilities are endless. Of course, with the possibility of things going right is the real possibility of things going awry and how Claire deals with the latter is at the very crux of this story.
Claire is still finding her footing in the world she lives in, although she's making inroads as to which direction she'd like to go career-wise. The pressure to create a more solid life plan is constantly there, courtesy of her overbearing but concerned mother. Volunteering at a community center during the day and working at the bar at night gives her purpose and a source of income, respectively, but leaves little time for Claire to indulge in her still-new relationship with Mia and that becomes part of the reason why she feels as if Mia's forging new friendships with people that Claire knows little to nothing of affects her more than you would expect. Claire and Mia react to things differently and that becomes even clearer in this sequel. The both have patterns of behavior that they need to break free from or risk losing each other.
What I love best about this book duet is that it isn't merely about Claire's love story with Mia; it's about Claire's life story right now. Her situation, that of trying to figure out what it is she wants to do in the near and distant future, is a familiar one. She may not necessarily choose the same path that others think is best for her, but this is her journey, and if she gets lost along the way or takes a longer route, it still remains her journey. I think that's just one of the reasons that Claire was such an easy main character for me to relate to. I see a lot of me in her, both at that age and now. Claire, Mia, and their friends are all works in progress, as we all are, and witnessing their struggles and triumphs makes for a very endearing read. The Sum of These Things joins its fab predecessor on my list of 2015 favorites. I happily give it five-plus stars. ♥
February 20, 2021
i really enjoyed this book, the storyline was interesting and it was a nice follow up to the first book, and i really liked the writing style. it was really interesting to see how much claire’s character developed throughout the story.
March 6, 2017
it's cheesy, romanti and a light read.
April 18, 2016
When Emily O’Beirne offered a copy of this book for me to consider reviewing I got incredibly excited! I loved a Story of Now and was very interested to know how this story was going to play out, let me tell you, I WAS NOT DISAPPOINTED.
We’re back with Claire, she’s still having problems with her mother but her relationship with herself is amazing, she’s feeling comfortable with her sexuality and her relationship with Mia.
This time they have to juggle work, university plans, family, friends and of course their relationship, it’s a really good look as the pressure one puts in oneself when we’re young and in a relationship that we feel is going to be the most important thing.
Even though I’m not much of a fan of coming out stories, this one I didn’t find tiring or repetitive, Claire has very good points as to why coming out is important or not, what’s going on with a society that labels and forces this pressure on people which I think it’s great to put out there specially for young people to read, question and understand.
I love Claire’s relationship with her brother, with Mia and how they handle everything in such a mature way for such a young people. I learned a lot of them and I completely recommend you this book. If there’s going to be a #3, I’ll get it no doubt and I hope you do too.
We’re back with Claire, she’s still having problems with her mother but her relationship with herself is amazing, she’s feeling comfortable with her sexuality and her relationship with Mia.
This time they have to juggle work, university plans, family, friends and of course their relationship, it’s a really good look as the pressure one puts in oneself when we’re young and in a relationship that we feel is going to be the most important thing.
Even though I’m not much of a fan of coming out stories, this one I didn’t find tiring or repetitive, Claire has very good points as to why coming out is important or not, what’s going on with a society that labels and forces this pressure on people which I think it’s great to put out there specially for young people to read, question and understand.
I love Claire’s relationship with her brother, with Mia and how they handle everything in such a mature way for such a young people. I learned a lot of them and I completely recommend you this book. If there’s going to be a #3, I’ll get it no doubt and I hope you do too.
January 3, 2021
This book picks up immediately after the first one left off, which makes them almost one whole story together. Carrying on with the tradition of the first book, we have a deeper investigation into Claire's character and fears and how the other major relationship in her life affected her current ability to trust in a new relationship, plus how her mother's parenting style has whittled down her confidence in her life choices.
All in all, as good as the first and the two really should be read as parts 1 and 2 of one story.
All in all, as good as the first and the two really should be read as parts 1 and 2 of one story.
April 11, 2018
This was lovely, it goes so well with the first book. Where the first book was about discovery this was about their relationship and the high and lows. I really enjoyed it, some things were a bit frustrating but overall I could make sense of everything. I was putting myself in situations and was like, well I would do or think like this. A good sequel to a good book.
May 24, 2021
Reread this recently and forgot to add it. I love the way the other describes things in her books. I could practically tase and smell the air and the elements she was beautifully describing. I wish the sex scenes werent so fade to black tho.. lol. Very enjoyable though.
January 14, 2016
Emily O'beirne is my new fav author. ❤️
February 11, 2016
Very good sequel. Although it's not really a sequel but the second part of a single novel. And this time with a lot less alcohol!
August 16, 2016
For this book and the purpose of doing a good review I will use Agnes' (Despicable Me) words:
- It's so fluffy I'm gonna die!
March 23, 2024
I'm sure some readers may be bored by the pacing, (I'd classify this as cozy romance) but I really found it moved me right into the emotional meat of the story: Claire coming to terms with her future(all types, btw: platonic, romantic, professional, familial) while reconciling with her past.
We get to see the story unfold through endless summer nights that go from clubbing to coziness for Mia and Claire lying around in bed (we all remember when finding alone time with an S.O. before you had your own space was scarce, and you'd settle for midnights if you had to), which eventually give way to the reality of professionalism. I love that we see less of Claire's bar work and more into her volunteer camp counselor position; like the story's way of showing that Claire's days are marked by a shift in career. And when she does talk about the bar, it's only "work was work. It's over." As someone who's learning the work-life balance/movement towards career herself, I appreciate this growth in Claire.
Claire and Mia finally have to have the big discussions and while it does become easy/matter of fact, it starts off as messy and leads to the dreaded "third act break-up" (hence the four star). This culminates in Claire confronting her past trust issues (which could've selfishly gotten in the way of Mia's Sydney future) and lack of self-worth (I about cried when I read Claire's internal "Is it me? Why do they all loose interest?" bit). And Mia's got to stop using kissing strangers as a weapon. But despite this, we do get the sweet "I want an old couple date night" line, and both sets of parents come to terms with Claire/Mia's romance.
This ends almost with no metaphorical punctuation. Throughout the novel, Claire is clear about them not discussing a romantic future, opting instead to focus on the professional. And while there's talk of getting the gang back together each summer now that they're going their separate ways, is this the end? Or is it only the beginning?
We get to see the story unfold through endless summer nights that go from clubbing to coziness for Mia and Claire lying around in bed (we all remember when finding alone time with an S.O. before you had your own space was scarce, and you'd settle for midnights if you had to), which eventually give way to the reality of professionalism. I love that we see less of Claire's bar work and more into her volunteer camp counselor position; like the story's way of showing that Claire's days are marked by a shift in career. And when she does talk about the bar, it's only "work was work. It's over." As someone who's learning the work-life balance/movement towards career herself, I appreciate this growth in Claire.
Claire and Mia finally have to have the big discussions and while it does become easy/matter of fact, it starts off as messy and leads to the dreaded "third act break-up" (hence the four star). This culminates in Claire confronting her past trust issues (which could've selfishly gotten in the way of Mia's Sydney future) and lack of self-worth (I about cried when I read Claire's internal "Is it me? Why do they all loose interest?" bit). And Mia's got to stop using kissing strangers as a weapon. But despite this, we do get the sweet "I want an old couple date night" line, and both sets of parents come to terms with Claire/Mia's romance.
This ends almost with no metaphorical punctuation. Throughout the novel, Claire is clear about them not discussing a romantic future, opting instead to focus on the professional. And while there's talk of getting the gang back together each summer now that they're going their separate ways, is this the end? Or is it only the beginning?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 21, 2018
Excellent sequel to A Story of Now
Before reading this book, be sure to read A Story of Now; neither book is a standalone read, nor is it meant to be. The Sum of These Things picks up where A Story of Now ends so having both books handy for a smooth reading transition is my suggestion.
The trajectory of Mia and Claire’s relationship is so realistic that at times I truly disliked Claire and the decisions she makes, actions she takes in their relationship. They’re both younger adults but their conflicts are not unique to that age and neither are the resolutions. The supporting characters (some familiar from A Story of Now and several new ones) are great and likable, fleshed out and given enough attention in the story to be more than just props in scenes with the main characters. Mia and Claire’s relationships with their families are focused on more in this book and provide more insight into their characters and the choices they make, the beliefs they carry thru life. Claire’s floundering is often frustrating to read more than any other character’s but it is an often painfully accurate portrayal of what a lack of communication or imposing ghosts of relationships past can do in a current relationship. For that reason alone I suggest this book and A Story of Now to adults of all ages and not solely younger or new adults; everyone can learn something in reading this story or see things in their own lives in a different light.
There is humor in both books and a diversity of characters which only adds to the reasons I recommend these books and look forward to anything else the author publishes in the future.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Before reading this book, be sure to read A Story of Now; neither book is a standalone read, nor is it meant to be. The Sum of These Things picks up where A Story of Now ends so having both books handy for a smooth reading transition is my suggestion.
The trajectory of Mia and Claire’s relationship is so realistic that at times I truly disliked Claire and the decisions she makes, actions she takes in their relationship. They’re both younger adults but their conflicts are not unique to that age and neither are the resolutions. The supporting characters (some familiar from A Story of Now and several new ones) are great and likable, fleshed out and given enough attention in the story to be more than just props in scenes with the main characters. Mia and Claire’s relationships with their families are focused on more in this book and provide more insight into their characters and the choices they make, the beliefs they carry thru life. Claire’s floundering is often frustrating to read more than any other character’s but it is an often painfully accurate portrayal of what a lack of communication or imposing ghosts of relationships past can do in a current relationship. For that reason alone I suggest this book and A Story of Now to adults of all ages and not solely younger or new adults; everyone can learn something in reading this story or see things in their own lives in a different light.
There is humor in both books and a diversity of characters which only adds to the reasons I recommend these books and look forward to anything else the author publishes in the future.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
April 20, 2024
I am disappointed by this sequel. It confirms what I feared from the first book: that I read too much into the commentary I saw. Like this one pushes the apology of policing to the point of explicitly having the main character win an argument against someone with (poor) arguments against it. But the worst part was that the main character was a full-on selfish asshole as a girlfriend to her love interest who honestly did nothing wrong. The nuance (I thought) I saw in the first book is inexistant here. It can very much be argued that the love interest made a mistake in terms of her own life and mental health, but not with regards to her relationship with the main character, and nowhere does this mistake compare to the fucked up stuff the main character did and said (), and the fact that even her best friends pretend she did while the main character doesn't even have to truly reflect on why/how she ruined their relationship made me so mad. Honestly, the whole time I disliked how the main character behaved as a girlfriend, but whatever. but after their break up, I just didn't even want her to "get the girl back".
December 10, 2023
This was a 14-hour audiobook skillfully narrated by the calm voice of Cat Gould. In my review of the first book, The Story Of Now, I wrote that my mind tended to wander and I’d lose track of the story, having to toggle backwards to find my place. It wasn’t until late in the story that Mia and Claire’s friendship began to change into becoming more than just friends.
This was a story of a group of college-aged young people trying to figure out what they wanted to do in their futures. Mia’s parents were kind, easy-going and supportive. Claire’s mother was a driven lawyer who was controlling and continually pressuring Claire to come up with a life plan. They often bucked heads.
I became emotionally invested in the story as I pulled for the two in their relationship issues, mostly caused by Claire’s insecurities and trust issues. I was ready to yell at her a few times!
I love how Emily O’Beirne developed the characters and presented the emotional growth and maturity of the characters. One other particular event dealt with the difference in how the parents all handled the coming-out situation.
This was a story of a group of college-aged young people trying to figure out what they wanted to do in their futures. Mia’s parents were kind, easy-going and supportive. Claire’s mother was a driven lawyer who was controlling and continually pressuring Claire to come up with a life plan. They often bucked heads.
I became emotionally invested in the story as I pulled for the two in their relationship issues, mostly caused by Claire’s insecurities and trust issues. I was ready to yell at her a few times!
I love how Emily O’Beirne developed the characters and presented the emotional growth and maturity of the characters. One other particular event dealt with the difference in how the parents all handled the coming-out situation.
December 30, 2020
Lovely story
I don’t know why I waited so long. I read the first book in college, but got anxious about reading the second book. It’s been years and then I saw the first book in my collection, this time deciding to read it again and then the second book. After having read both books, I can say that the characters are extremely well done, very relatable and real. I have my BS but am scared to take the MCATs for med school, I feel a lot like Claire does. Reading this hasn’t exactly given me confidence, but it’s been very sweet to read about a character that strikes home for me. I’m amazed there aren’t more reviews for this book. I recommend this for everyone, but you must read the first book. It’ll be worth it I promise.
I don’t know why I waited so long. I read the first book in college, but got anxious about reading the second book. It’s been years and then I saw the first book in my collection, this time deciding to read it again and then the second book. After having read both books, I can say that the characters are extremely well done, very relatable and real. I have my BS but am scared to take the MCATs for med school, I feel a lot like Claire does. Reading this hasn’t exactly given me confidence, but it’s been very sweet to read about a character that strikes home for me. I’m amazed there aren’t more reviews for this book. I recommend this for everyone, but you must read the first book. It’ll be worth it I promise.
July 15, 2017
I wish I can rate her book higher than 5 stars.
After reading this book, all I can say is "wow". My heart aches and I want more of their story. The story is simple yet, all the characters are likeable. Yes, even her mom. The 2nd book made their feelings for each other stronger and clearer. I like Claire and Mia's relationships. I like how I understand their feelings (I'm single since birth). You can feel their emotions, feelings etc. I felt like I really really know them. The story might be predictable but, you'll like how the story goes.
After reading this book, all I can say is "wow". My heart aches and I want more of their story. The story is simple yet, all the characters are likeable. Yes, even her mom. The 2nd book made their feelings for each other stronger and clearer. I like Claire and Mia's relationships. I like how I understand their feelings (I'm single since birth). You can feel their emotions, feelings etc. I felt like I really really know them. The story might be predictable but, you'll like how the story goes.
October 30, 2017
Loved this book! I wanted to follow the story of Claire and Mia and rushed to get this book
The first book was excellent but with this sequel Emily O’Beirne hits it out of the park. It is a fairly long book (kept me awake for a couple of nights) but in a good way in that the characters were developed.
Thoroughly recommend these books and also 'Future Leaders of Nowhere' - Emily O’Beirne is a writer to watch (or better yet read)
The first book was excellent but with this sequel Emily O’Beirne hits it out of the park. It is a fairly long book (kept me awake for a couple of nights) but in a good way in that the characters were developed.
Thoroughly recommend these books and also 'Future Leaders of Nowhere' - Emily O’Beirne is a writer to watch (or better yet read)
September 26, 2023
I would say that I love this book more than the first book. This book is about Claire and her relationship with Mia and everyone around her. I just love how Claire grew throughout the book and so did Mia. While at first, I wished that this would be dual POV, I'm glad that it's all from Claire's side and we got to see things from Mia's side when she communicated with Claire and see how Claire processed all of it.
Overall a sapphic must-read. 5/5.
Overall a sapphic must-read. 5/5.
November 22, 2018
I only read the first book to get to this one, but by the time I got to this one, I'd already fallen in love with these characters. This was such a beautiful follow-up to the first book and I really enjoyed the writing, characters and storyline. I kind of wish there was a third book just to keep following the characters. Definitely one of my favorite reads this year.
September 14, 2023
Creo que puedo decir que ha sido una de las historias más bellas que he leído en años. Estoy tan feliz de haber conocido a todo este grupo de personas tan hermosas que me duele haber terminado el libro. Ya estoy extrañando a Claire, Mía, Robbie, Nina, Pete. Dios, hasta extrañaré a Cam. Necesito más de todos ellos.
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