
Author: Kasie West
Published by: HarperTeen
Publication Date: January 31, 2017
Format: eARC
Pages: 352
Source: Publisher


When Autumn Collins finds herself accidentally locked in the library for an entire weekend, she doesn’t think things could get any worse. But that’s before she realizes that Dax Miller is locked in with her. Autumn doesn’t know much about Dax except that he’s trouble. Between the rumors about the fight he was in (and that brief stint in juvie that followed it) and his reputation as a loner, he’s not exactly the ideal person to be stuck with. Still, she just keeps reminding herself that it is only a matter of time before Jeff, her almost-boyfriend, realizes he left her in the library and comes to rescue her.
Only he doesn’t come. No one does.
Instead it becomes clear that Autumn is going to have to spend the next couple of days living off vending-machine food and making conversation with a boy who clearly wants nothing to do with her. Except there is more to Dax than meets the eye. As he and Autumn first grudgingly, and then not so grudgingly, open up to each other, Autumn is struck by their surprising connection. But can their feelings for each other survive once the weekend is over and Autumn’s old life, and old love interest, threaten to pull her from Dax’s side?
I’ve been a huge fan of Kasie West’s writing since Pivot Point, her debut novel. I’m always eager to read her books without even knowing what they’re about, but I was particularly enthusiastic for By Your Side. Why? They’re stuck in a library for the weekend! C’mon, who of us hasn’t fantasized about being locked in a library or bookstore. Even better, with a cute guy. Fun, right?
Well …
It pains me to say this, but … I’m mostly disappointed. I mean, it’s cute and I didn’t have any major issues with the story itself, but it felt flat. Unfortunately, it lacked the emotion and depth I’m used to from West’s books, making it hard to feel anything for the characters or their situations. I’m not saying the characters are bad, because they aren’t. I actually like Autumn and Dax, but the chemistry wasn’t there.
That’s how it felt to me, anyway. I won’t let this lackluster experience deter me from eagerly awaiting the authors next book, though.
However, if you haven’t read any of her books, I highly suggest starting with The Distance Between Us, On the Fence, or Pivot Point.
Bummer that you didn’t have an emotional connection with it. Sometimes just cute and fun is okay, but not when you’re expecting something else. I still need to try her books.
*cries* that’s very disappointing, Christy! West usually packs a very good emotional punch, so I am not sure if I’d enjoy this either. As Sophia said, it is all about the expectations…
I liked The Distance Between Us, I’ll check out some of her other work, but I’ll skip this one. I was curious about it because it takes place in a library, that seems like it would be fun to read about.
Oh I’m sorry that this book wasn’t what you were expecting for. One day I’ll still have to try this author
I really liked this one but agree it wasn’t my favorite from her. Great review!
Cute premise but probably it’s too cute for an old lady like me? Lol
Yeah, I enjoyed this book but not nearly as much as I hoped I would. I would have liked it better if Autumn was a book nerd who spent the entire weekend reading books and doing nerdy things with the cute boy but blah, that didn’t happen. Oh well. I do love all of the books you listed though. Those Kasie West books are great!
I haven’t read this author and while this isn’t my normal type of book I might give it a try sometime. Sorry to her it wasn’t great for you.
aww I’m sorry to hear this fell flat for you. Not sure if I ever read her books, but I keep hearing such nice things about them. I am waiting for my library to have this one available, it does look sweet
It’s good you already love the author and will continue to read her, but I’m sorry to hear her latest fell flat for you. I do LOVE the premise. I’ve spent a night in the library before!
-Lauren
Nooo, I mean locked in a library!
Oh no! It does sound like it is the perfect formula for us but too bad it fell flat. 🙁 I still have yet to read this author and I won’t be discouraged by this one and read her other stuff. 🙂
I might need to check out the books by Kasie West that you mentioned. Everyone seems to love her work. I listened to The Fill-In Boyfriend and thought it was just okay. Too bad you found this one disappointing.
DITTO, DITTO, DITTO!!!!! It’s like, how do you hate on a well written book when your expectations are higher for the author??? Hey, they can’t all be winners, right?? I SOOOOOOO wanted to see how you’d handle this review… PEFECTION!!!! 😀
That’s such a shame Christy. I’ve only read one other of her previous books before and while I enjoyed it, this sounds like a much slower and more cutesy read rather than anything that’ll tug at those heartstrings. Probably suited to a fluffy, rainy day read. I’m glad you could still enough it though Christy despite that disconnection. Wonderful review!<3
Aww sorry this didn’t work out for you! I enjoyed it, but it so far is my least favourite of the bunch. Maybe it was the expectation…
Hopefully her next book will be back to awesomeess for us!
Being locked in a library or working in a library is indeed one of my biggest fantasies 🙂 Too bad this book was a disappointment 🙁
I’m sorry this was on the disappointing side. The premise had me from the start–stuck in a library?!
I loved Pivot Point and On the Fence! A shame you didn’t find too much depth in this one. Lovely review!
Aww man! I’m sorry this was a disappointment, Christy. It’s always even more of a letdown when it’s a favorite author. And this had so much potential!! Because yes, I have dreamed of being locked in a library…the cute guy would be the cherry on top! 😉 I’ve not read West but I’ll make sure to read your recommendations and steer clear of this one. 🙂
I do love the idea of being stuck in a library! Sorry this wasn’t a favorite of yours. Here’s hoping her next book will be amazing.
Oh.. I was planning to buy this book since I’m in the mood for a unique romcom. You save me. Thank you. I need something that has a WOW factor.
Great review, Christy. 🙂
Darn on a miss especially since it was one you were looking forward to. Hopefully the next has that right sparkle for you 🙂
A shame you didn’t love this one! But if you can’t feel the chemistry, that’s what happens!