From the New York Times bestselling author of Red, White &Royal Blue and One Last Stop comes a debut YA romantic comedy that is also great for adults about chasing down what you want only to find what you need. Casey McQuiston’s novel, I Kissed Shara Wheeler is one book you are going to want to add to your romance TBR list for this summer.
About the Book
Chloe is so close to winning; after her moms moved her from Califonia to Alabama for high school, she’s spent the past four years avoiding gossipy classmates and an archaic administration at Willowgrove Christian Academy. The thing that’s kept her going: winning valedictorian. Her only rival: prom queen Shara Wheeler, the principal’s perfect offspring and the school’s ultimate perfect girl.
So when Shara unexpectedly kisses Chloe and disappears one month before graduation, Chloe’s world is turned upside down. Fueled by a desire for answers and also to bring back Shara so that Chloe can beat her fair and square in the race to become valedictorian, she teams up with a bunch of boys that Shara also kissed to embark on a journey to figure out where the heck she is.
Thoughts about the book
Casey McQuiston had only published new adult queer narratives before to this book, but regardless of genre and this being their debut into young adult fiction, they did an incredible job writing an incredible story with I Kissed Shara Wheeler.
One of their greatest strengths is their characters. From the fierce and determined main character, Chloe to all the side characters as well as the mysterious Shara, all the characters felt so real. They were complex and interesting, flawed but loveable all the same you can’t help but feeling drawn to each of them as if they were real people.
There is so much wonderful representation in this book, the major example was Chloe and Shara. Their rivalry-turned-relationship was very complex and their moments made up some beautiful and genuine moments in the book. Shara’s journey of embracing the part of her that was shunted deep within herself because to her Christian upbringing was difficult but extremely well done and relatable.
The multiple layers surrounding Smith and Rory’s friendship and eventual relationship was delightful to read, and when they eventually come together as a result of the obstacle course that Shara forces them through, you will be very delighted for them. Smith’s character also experiences a journey of self-identity that was beautifully written.
The friendship between Chloe, Smith, and Rory was a highlight of the novel, these three worked together very well as a team and their friendship was a genuine highlight of the book.
The writing was engaging and readable and the narration was full of McQuiston’s usual wit. There’s something about the humour in Casey McQuiston’s books and I Kissed Shara Wheeler was no exception. The humour helped the book remain lighthearted even as it discussed some heavy themes.
After the huge success of Red, White & Royal Blue and One Last Stop, McQuiston is such a good writer that deserves all their flowers. They once again proved their ability to write heartwarming queer narratives regardless of the genre. I kissed Shara Wheeler is the perfect romance for this summer as well as a great coming-of-age book that every high school student that is struggling to figure themselves out should read.
Conclusion
5/5. The book was released May 3, 2022., I Kissed Shara Wheeler is the unapologetic queer coming of age story we’ve been waiting for – breaking the rules, getting messy, and finding love in unexpected places.
euphoria 
Leave a comment