I always have mixed feelings about short stories. In theory, it works best in a romance, because it can just be cute and fluffy, and sometimes that's all I want. But in this case, I had a hard time connecting to the characters. Now, I will also add that Bryce's writing has always been that me; I've read a bit from her, and have given her anywhere from 2 - 4 stars, so obviously there is some variance there in how I take to her writing style and to the characters themselves each time.
Lizzie was just kind of bland for me. There was nothing about her that I really liked or drew me in. She seemed kind of insecure and out of touch and very dependent on her best friends. Which, don't get me wrong, is not a bad thing, that last one; we all need friends like hers. But her dependence came across almost as a clingy third wheel who didn't feel like she fit in, who wasn't as hot or as popular as her friends, and who didn't feel like she belonged. Which ties in to being insecure. Maybe this character just needs some therapy, but it was hypocritical when, in the epilogue, she thought about how Noah's insecurities and worries about how other people felt instead of just talking to them and making sure they were on the same page was his issue, not his likeability or worthiness.
Hazel was the best character, and I was actually a bit disappointed to find out she wasn't the love interest. Spin-off, anyone?? I'm in.
Also, Rory's history with her ex was mostly put out in vague inferences and half-finished sentences, and I just found that kind of confusing. The characters know the history, not the reader. I want to know if what's-her-name was jealous because she knew Rory was in love with Lizzie, or because she suspected. And if she knew, was it because Rory told her? Did she admit it before or after they got married? And if she did tell her, did they go into this marriage knowing that? Was it more like a business arrangement, or did what's-her-name assume Rory would get over it? Did they ever actually talk about it, or did the relationship just die out over this perceived jealousy? See? So many unanswered questions.
Sidenote: Small complaint, I will admit. But in the epilogue, right before the party, Lizzie is talking to Kai about Noah and his planned proposal. And in the whole book, Kai was 'they'. But for a moment, they was 'him', and that seems like a pretty important typo. Does it change anything? No. But then again, we're talking a queer character who doesn't use the pronouns they were born with, and I am just wondering why the editor didn't catch that.....