Waiting on Wednesday: Isla and the Happily Ever After by Stephanie Perkins

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine that spotlights upcoming releases.

Isla and the Happily Ever After 
Anna & the French Kiss #3

by Stephanie Perkins

Dutton
August 14, 2014

 

Summary:

From the glittering streets of Manhattan to the moonlit rooftops of Paris, falling in love is easy for hopeless dreamer Isla and introspective artist Josh. But as they begin their senior year in France, Isla and Josh are quickly forced to confront the heartbreaking reality that happily-ever-afters aren’t always forever.

Their romantic journey is skillfully intertwined with those of beloved couples Anna and Étienne and Lola and Cricket, whose paths are destined to collide in a sweeping finale certain to please fans old and new.

Why I want it:

I have been waiting for this book for two years. I NEED this book! Stephanie's writing isn't realistic; it's just straight-up real. I love literally everything about Stephanie's books from the plot to the characters to the romance to the friendships to the humor to the teeniest, tiniest quirky detail.

Why I think you should want it:

Stephanie is one of the queens of contemporary and is absolutely 100% a must-read author, even if you're not normally a contemporary fan. Based on all the positive hype from authors who have read it and the sneak peek I've gotten at Isla (stop freaking out, I haven't read it. Said sneak peek is on Netgalley), this is one incredible book! Isla lives with her extreme shyness, but she has such strength of character, which shows especially in the moments when she finds her voice to stand up to bullies and ugly situations. Even in the very first chapters, the connection between Isla and Josh is utterly palpable. All of Stephanie's characters are unique and stand out in a crowd, but I think Isla and Josh are the most alone out of all of them. I am VERY intrigued to see where Stephanie takes this novel, and I think it's one that is really going to touch the hearts of everyone who reads it.

Have you been waiting for Isla and Josh's story as long as I have? If not, 1. where have you been?! and 2. are you interested in reading it now? What are you waiting on most this week? Thoughts & picks in the comments!

PS I got to meet Stephanie in February, and it was one of the best days of my life! I really hope I have the chance to see her again soon.

PPS I may have a signed copy of Anna just waiting for the right moment for a giveaway...