Lauren's Review-Left Drowning by Jessica Park

Summary: Weighted down by the loss of her parents, Blythe McGuire struggles to keep her head above water as she trudges through her last year at Matthews College. Then a chance meeting sends Blythe crashing into something she doesn’t expect—an undeniable attraction to a dark-haired senior named Chris Shepherd, whose past may be even more complicated than her own. As their relationship deepens, Chris pulls Blythe out of the stupor she’s been in since the night a fire took half her family. She begins to heal, and even, haltingly, to love this guy who helps her find new paths to pleasure and self-discovery. But as Blythe moves into calmer waters, she realizes Chris is the one still strangled by his family’s traumatic history. As dark currents threaten to pull him under, Blythe may be the only person who can keep him from drowning.

What I loved: The family dynamic and loveable characters. One of the best parts of the book for me was the last chapter, and without going into too much detail, focusing on each character and how each character influenced Blythe and affected her individually. Sabin was one of my favorite characters by far. How could you not love him from the minute you meet him?

Cons: I am conflicted about this book. There were moments where I was held captive and couldn't pull myself away but for the most part, I found the book to be predictable and far fetched. I am all for fate and destiny but some parts were a bit much for me.  I think the author gave too much away too soon. By mid book, I knew the story and what was going to happen and it lost me because of it. While I love a drunk Blythe, I felt the story went a little too far with the Chris and a certain someone. Again, trying not to give too much away but I felt like that was put in just to add a little drama to the story line.

Hot Scene: Chris & Blythe in her dormroom! No sex but whoa, definitely hot and heavy!

Next Book: Unteachable by Leah Raeder