OCD Love Story

OCD Love Story by Corey Ann Haydu, 341 pages

There are a lot of reasons that you could be scared away from this book: from the bright yellow and pink cover with a not-great, somewhat out-of-context quote on the back, to the disappointingly generic start (you know the drill: go to school, argue with parents, talk about cute boys, etc.). Assuming you get past those initial hurdles, you could also be turned away by main character Bea's slow descent into increasingly troubling behavior.

The longer that you can stick with it, though, the more you'll be rewarded. This is a novel that's both informative and touching, heartbreaking and full of hope. The ending may be a bit clean, given everything that happens before it, but it's also necessary, like letting out a breath.

This is the kind of novel that is difficult to recommend broadly, but will be irreplaceable for those that struggle through.

Say What You Will

Say What You Will by Cammie McGovern, 343 pages

When the first sentence of your book's blurb says that it's Eleanor and Park meets The Fault in Our Stars, you've got lofty boots to fill (wait, what? why are the boots up there?). Say What You Will doesn't quite live up to those expectations, though it's obvious why the comparisons fit. And it comes darn close - it matches them in terms of how engrossing it is, how interesting and endearing the characters are, and how quickly you'll burn through the pages. I suspect some will actually appreciate it more.

This is a friendship/romance story between two misfits both of whom have their own types of illness that contribute not only to their ostracization, but also contribute to their kinship with one another. See the comparisons? Despite the similarities, though, Say What You Will stands on its own. It's similar without being an imitation. It has its own statements to make, and its own insight to bring. It dips a bit in the second act, when it tries to cram a bit too much drama where it doesn't fit, but by the end it comes full circle and makes up for its faults.

I feel like it's a bit unfair to review a book exclusively by comparing it to other books, but they are pretty perfect read-alikes. If you're looking for a touching story of misfit love (whether it's your first dose or your third), then look no further. It may not be 100% laser-refined, but it's got great, multifaceted characters, and a brisk, engrossing story.