Mariah Dietz is a new-to-me author and, “Exploring the Rules” is my first read of hers. Well, it certainly won’t be my last!
This story is 4 college students, heading into their junior year & taking a road trip from Florida (where they live) to Seattle, to return for the Fall. We have Chloe & Nessa, twin sisters, and Cooper & Tyler, who are both on the college football team.
Chloe & Cooper have been best friends for many years. Chloe’s sister, Nessa, and Cooper like each other & think this road trip would be a great way to get to know each other better. What Chloe does not expect is seeing Tyler get out of the car as the guys come to pick up the girls. She’s not happy that Nessa kept this small detail from her. Chloe met Tyler during their freshman year & while at a party, they shared a kiss and after that, he avoided her (and she he) like the plague. She’s never forgiven him for that night and is extremely unhappy that he’s part of their adventure traveling cross country back to school.
As the 4 start off, we find that Tyler is actually working on this trip for his father. His family is extremely wealthy & owns numerous hotels around the world. Tyler wants his father to see that he’s the right choice to succeed him when he retires & sets out to prove himself. In fact, each city they stay in, they’re treated to beautiful suites in the hotels owned by his family.
Will Nessa & Cooper discover that they really are happy together? Will Chloe get over being in the car for weeks with Tyler? Will Nessa be able to handle the strength of Chloe & Cooper’s friendship, as she tries to navigate her way with her sister’s best friend? Can Chloe forgive Tyler & see him for who he really is?
Only one way to find out....!
This book is about love, friendship, family, navigating relationships that become tricky and so much more. The characters were well-developed, and I really enjoyed reading the descriptions of the cities they stayed in. (It’s a road trip I’d like to take myself!!). This book, for me, hit all the right buttons. I really look forward to reading more from Ms. Dietz!