Book Review: Audre & Bash Are Just Friends by K.L. Randle
Sometimes a book leaps off the shelf and begs to be read, capturing my attention with its promise of lighthearted fun—but what I didn’t expect was the emotional depth and relatability woven throughout Audre & Bash Are Just Friends. K.L. Randle delivers a delightful summer romance that is as cute as it is insightful, and I couldn’t help but fall in love with it.
The plot centers around Audre, who hires the school’s hottest boy, Bash, as her “fun consultant” for the summer. You know where that’s going, right? Yet, it’s the charm of Audre and Bash’s evolving relationship that makes this story stand out. They are both adorably awkward and flustered around each other, and I could practically feel the butterflies in my stomach as they navigated their feelings. For someone who usually doesn’t vibe with YA, especially when sprinkled with Gen Z slang, I devoured every page.
What truly captivated me was Bash. Described as “everyone’s crush,” he’s sweet, funny, and radiates a chill vibe that makes you want to hang out with him. However, it’s his emotional backstory that pulled at my heartstrings, revealing layers beyond the perfect exterior. He’s so openly “down bad” for Audre, and his confessions—like when he says, “What was I supposed to say to you? That not being near you feels pointless, like wasted time?”—made me swoon. Seriously, could you be any more relatable?
Randle doesn’t shy away from heavier subjects, either. The exploration of race, gender, sexuality, and mental health adds nuance, while Audre’s complicated relationship with her mother brought unexpected depth. The moments of tension between them—especially when Audre realizes she’s been reduced to an afterthought—felt painfully relatable. I saw so much of myself in her struggle to carve out her own identity: “What about what I want, thought Audre. or what do I need? I’m a whole person with a life, not an extension of you.”
And let’s not forget the humor! Contrary to my cringing tendencies while reading YA, I laughed out loud when Audre, drunk and carefree, attempted freestyle rapping. It shouldn’t have been funny, but here I was, cracking up instead of crawling under a blanket. Moments like these showcased Randle’s knack for balancing comedy and earnestness.
There were elements I wish had been explored further, particularly the POV of Audre’s best friend, Reshma. While not unenjoyable, I found myself eager to return to the sweet chemistry between Audre and Bash. The ending felt a bit rushed for me; I needed more resolution, especially regarding Audre’s relationship with her mother, which felt like an unresolved thread by the book’s close.
Overall, Audre & Bash Are Just Friends surprised me with its delightful blend of romance and deeper emotional currents. I’m awarding it a solid 4 stars, and I would highly recommend it to anyone who cherishes YA romances that come with a side of real-life messiness—complete with witty banter and endearing characters. Reading this book was more than just a whimsical escape; it reminded me of the spark that love can ignite amidst the complexities of life. If you’re looking for a story that makes you giggle, sigh, and perhaps shed a tear or two, grab this one for your next read!
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