Exploring the Sparks of First Love: A Review of Rules of Attraction by Simone Elkeles
There’s something about the allure of young love that always draws me back, and Rules of Attraction certainly reignited those feelings. As a sequel to Perfect Chemistry, a book that already holds a dear place in my heart from 2010, the anticipation was palpable. Simone Elkeles has a knack for capturing the raw complexities of teenage emotions, making her books a must-read for both teens and adults reminiscing about their first loves.
In this second installment of the Fuentes Brothers Trilogy, we find ourselves in Boulder, Colorado, where the rebellious Carlos Fuentes moves in with all-too-familiar relatives. The juxtaposition of Carlos, a bad-boy with a penchant for trouble, meeting the wholesome, adventurous Kiara Westford, creates an intriguing dramatic tension that pulls you in from the get-go. Their relationship blossoms in unexpected ways, showcasing Elkeles’ expert handling of character development.
I’ll admit, I wasn’t sure how I would resonate with Carlos at first. My heart still belongs to Alex from Perfect Chemistry, who, despite his tough exterior, hid a yearning for something more profound. But watching Carlos evolve throughout the story was an unexpected pleasure. His growth felt real and relatable, and by the end, I found myself rooting for him fiercely.
Kiara, on the other hand, is the kind of character I could easily see myself befriending—smart, caring, and refreshingly humorous. The dynamic created between her and Carlos is delightful, frequently charged with humor and a sprinkle of angst. I couldn’t help but enjoy their playful banter, and yes, those moments of romantic tension left me shivering with excitement.
Elkeles’ writing style, characterized by alternating perspectives, allows readers to dive deep into the minds of both main characters, providing a dual lens on their evolving relationship. This structure kept me engaged and reminded me of the whirlpool of emotions that come with growing up, especially when romance is involved. The well-placed humor lightens the weight of heavier topics, keeping the tone accessible while touching on serious issues like identity and belonging.
Notable moments in the book had me chuckling or sighing wistfully—like when Carlos playfully declares to Kiara, "If you were my girlfriend… I’d kiss you in front of the guy every chance I got as a reminder." There’s a raw truth that resonates behind those playful words; love is often loud and unabashedly possessive in its early days.
While the captivating cover had me swooning from the start—who can resist a couple kissing in the rain?—the story itself took me on an emotional rollercoaster. The epilogue is both sweet and a touch corny, but sometimes that’s just what we need—an escape into an uncomplicated, romantic resolution.
As I closed the book, I felt a mix of nostalgia and hope, eager for the next chapter in the Fuentes saga. Rules of Attraction is perfect for adults who enjoy reliving the stirrings of first love and for older teens seeking something a bit grittier yet tender. If you’re a fan of young adult books that thoughtfully explore relationships amid challenges, I’d place this on your to-be-read list with gusto.
In short, Elkeles captivates us once again, leaving us yearning for more, especially when the youngest Fuentes brother’s story rolls around in Chain Reaction. Here’s hoping for more of that irresistible magic! Happy reading!
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