Author: Katie Cotugno
ISBN: 0062216384
Release Date: April 21, 2015
Publisher: Balzer + Bray
Source: From Publisher for honest review. (Thanks EW & Harper!)
Day 1: Julia Donnelly eggs my house my first night back in Star Lake, and that’s how I know everyone still remembers everything—how I destroyed my relationship with Patrick the night everything happened with his brother, Gabe. How I wrecked their whole family. Now I’m serving out my summer like a jail sentence: Just ninety-nine days till I can leave for college, and be done.
Day 4: A nasty note on my windshield makes it clear Julia isn’t finished. I’m expecting a fight when someone taps me on the shoulder, but it’s just Gabe, home from college and actually happy to see me. “For what it’s worth, Molly Barlow,” he says, “I’m really glad you’re back.”
Day 12: Gabe got me to come to this party, and I’m actually having fun. I think he’s about to kiss me—and that’s when I see Patrick. My Patrick, who’s supposed to be clear across the country. My Patrick, who’s never going to forgive me.
When I began this book I did not expect for it to give me the power house of emotions that it granted. I was unsuspecting, I did not think I would become so indebted and so at risk. It looked cute, and I love a fun contemp so I had high hopes, but I was definitely not expecting to be drawn in immediately to the story and be immobilized for hours. I couldn't stop reading. I looked up two hours later to find it was way past my bed time and this book had just controlled my life for a bit.
This is one of those book things that I love to happen and I can tell you that in 99 DAYS you get transported into Molly's life quite instantly.
The introduction of Molly's story comes in small bits, instantly easing you into the larger picture and getting you actively involved as you struggle to discover it all. You begin with a sea of questions asking: What happened with Molly and Gabe? What is happening with Patrick now? The mom did what?! etc...
This continues until you reach a state of satisfaction having MOST of the story at your disposal, but there are still questions which need to be answered.
The relationships in this book are intense, not in a negative way, but each character has history that goes deep. The writing really displays how close the characters are, the writing style complements it and allows the relationships to flourish and grow. The setting adds to this idea with a small town feel that adds to the close knit feel.
The story is told in chronological order from Day 1-99. This was a really cool way to tell it and it added a nice feeling to the limited time that summer has to offer. Some days had really nothing at all, some went on for pages and pages. I really enjoyed this aspect and it added another dimension for me.
The ending was a little less than stellar - and I only say this because there was so much build up that I felt didn't get entirely placed away. I didn't dislike it, I definitely didn't think it was out of place, and it made sense... but I'm hoping there's a sequel because I would love to spend some more time with Molly, Patirck and Gabe!
Overall: If you love contemporaries that are so good you become lost, this book is for you. This book holds all the elements of a great story, with all those good feelings that make you unable to stop. Don't miss it.
4.5 keys rounded to 5.
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