Not Here to Stay Friends: A Charming Dive into Complicated Emotions
As a lifelong fan of friends-to-lovers tales, Not Here to Stay Friends by Kaitlyn Hill instantly snagged my attention. I mean, who can resist the tantalizing promise of childhood best friends reuniting in sunny Los Angeles, only to have their friendship tested by the complexities of reality TV and hidden feelings? It felt like the perfect blend of warmth and whimsy, and I couldn’t wait to dive in.
From the get-go, we meet Sloane McKinney, who feels more like a background character in her own life—something that resonated deeply with me. We’ve all had those moments of self-doubt, and Sloane’s quest for self-discovery and autonomy felt incredibly relatable. Reconnecting with her childhood best friend, Liam Daniels, sounds like a dream, especially since he’s had a “Hot Guy glow-up." I won’t spoil the magic, but the dynamic between them is electric. The tension simmers beautifully as they navigate complex emotions while pretending they’re merely friends, which is, let’s be real, a classic rom-com setup that I adore.
What truly sets this book apart, though, is its clever incorporation of a teen reality dating show—Aspen Woods’s Future Leading Lady. Initially, I expected some lighthearted fun, but Hill illustrates the behind-the-scenes drama remarkably, revealing the chaos that often lurks beneath such glossy surfaces. I found myself chuckling at the absurdities of reality TV culture while also reflecting on how it impacts the authenticity of relationships. Those moments of insight brought depth to an otherwise lighthearted narrative and kept me engaged.
Hill’s writing style is delightful: she balances humor and heartfelt introspection gracefully. The alternating perspectives between Sloane and Liam offer a rich emotional depth that made me feel like I was uncovering their secrets alongside them. One memorable quote stood out to me: "Maybe this is my time to show everyone—show myself—that I can do things that are big and scary and out of character." It encapsulates Sloane’s journey of self-discovery and was a reminder of the bravery involved in stepping outside our comfort zones.
Sloane’s strong friendship with other female characters adds an empowering layer, showcasing the strength found in sisterhood—a theme that resonated with me especially. Watching these young women uplift each other reminded me of the importance of solidarity, particularly in navigating challenges that come with adolescence and identity.
I can wholeheartedly say that Not Here to Stay Friends isn’t just another cute teen romance; it explores friendship, personal growth, and the messiness of life in a way that feels genuine. If you find joy in stories that mix humor with heartfelt revelations—think The Bachelor meets Julie Murphy—this book will make the perfect addition to your reading list.
In closing, I’d recommend this novel to anyone seeking a quick, engaging escape. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of reality TV or simply love a good friends-to-lovers story, this book offers warmth and laughs, along with moments of self-reflection that linger long after the last page. I left the story feeling a bit lighter, which is perhaps the best kind of magic a book can offer. Happy reading!