Review of See You Next Fall: A Friends-to-Lovers Contemporary Romance by Jennifer M. DeVries
Sometimes, a book catches your eye simply because it reflects a familiar sentiment—a longing for love intertwined with the complexities of friendship and life’s unpredictable paths. When I stumbled upon See You Next Fall by Jennifer M. DeVries, I was instantly drawn in. The promise of a friends-to-lovers tale with hearty themes and relatable characters felt like a comforting embrace. Spoiler alert: it did not disappoint.
At the heart of this engaging narrative are Elle Winnick and Quinn Camden, who have navigated their friendship with a carefully maintained set of “rules” for the past four years. No strings. No expectations. Just their annual rendezvous in October—a sanctuary created in the midst of their tumultuous lives. Elle’s emotional baggage from a past heartbreak and Quinn’s looming responsibilities tied to his family legacy form the perfect backdrop for their connection, which becomes increasingly complicated as unspoken feelings simmer just beneath the surface.
DeVries does a lovely job of capturing the essence of friendship and the delicate dance that defines it. The themes of loyalty, vulnerability, and the fear of losing something precious resonate deeply. As I read, I found myself rooting for Elle and Quinn, wishing wholeheartedly for them to confront the deeper connection they conveniently skirt around. The author’s exploration of trust, both in oneself and in others, adds layers of depth that elevate this story beyond a simple romance.
The writing style is refreshingly accessible yet layered, which makes the characters’ emotions palpable. I was particularly fond of the flowing dialogue that not only builds their relationship but also provides insights into each character’s motivation. There’s a certain rhythm to DeVries’ prose that kept me turning the pages, eager to see if these two could break their own rules for the sake of love.
One quote that stayed with me was when Elle reflects, “Sometimes love isn’t about a perfect plan. It’s about diving in, arms wide open, into the chaos.” This sentiment perfectly encapsulates the central dilemma. It resonated with me, reminding me of my own experiences with love—how it often requires risking the familiar for something extraordinary.
For anyone who revels in stories of friendship slowly blossoming into romance, See You Next Fall is a must-read. Whether you’re a fan of contemporary romance or simply enjoy heartfelt narratives sprinkled with a dash of humor and spice, this book offers a delightful escape.
The emotional journey of Elle and Quinn left me pondering the nuances of love and friendship long after I turned the last page. DeVries has carved out a beautiful niche with this first installment of the Wanderlust Contemporary Romance series, and I find myself looking forward to more stories that explore the often slippery boundaries of human connection.
In short, if you’re seeking a novel that intertwines the intensity of love with the comfort of friendship, look no further. See You Next Fall will not only captivate your heart but also remind you that sometimes, the best stories are those that haven’t been written yet.