Book Review: Love Notes: A Sweet Enemies to Lovers Young Adult Romance by Victorine E. Lieske
As someone who’s always been fascinated by the tantalizing dance of enemies-to-lovers tropes, Victorine E. Lieske’s Love Notes instantly piqued my interest. From the moment I read the opening lines about Mia and Carson’s hilarious—and at times chaotic—relationship, I couldn’t help but dive into their whirlwind world. With school, personal struggles, and unexpected connections, this story weaves a charm that captures the essence of teen drama and budding romance.
At its core, Love Notes negotiates the complex themes of friendship, rivalry, and the struggles of adolescence. Mia is an organized perfectionist, grappling with family issues and college uncertainties, while Carson is the quintessential free spirit, known for his carefree attitude and pranks. Their interactions are downright entertaining, filled with witty banter that will make you laugh out loud and perhaps cringe a bit in empathy for Mia. The book does a marvelous job showcasing how they start to see beneath each other’s exteriors, slowly unraveling layers of complexity that reveal just how much they have in common, sparking that infamous tension of “will they or won’t they?”
Lieske’s writing style is smooth and engaging, allowing readers to effortlessly glide through the pages. I appreciated how she maintained a light tone, deftly balancing humor with emotional depth. The pacing is spot-on; though the storyline progresses rapidly, it allows readers enough time to invest in Mia’s and Carson’s evolving relationship, making each comedic moment and romantic gesture feel genuinely earned. I found myself chuckling at their escalating antics—who wouldn’t laugh at the calamity of a basketball to the face leading to a school-mandated project?
One of the standout pieces of feedback I’ve gleaned from other readers is how relatable Mia feels. As one reviewer poignantly noted, she’s not just a “good girl,” but someone who wrestles with her flaws and desires. The chemistry and sexual tension between Mia and Carson are electric, echoing the thrill of young love. Their journey from adversaries to allies is peppered with moments that resonate, particularly the scene where their unexpected connection blossoms during the holiday Angel Project.
Reflecting on the characters, I found Carson’s growth to be particularly memorable. His journey from being a provocative classmate to a more sensitive companion illuminates how friendships can evolve under pressure. It’s reassuring to see character development that feels authentic rather than forced.
In conclusion, Love Notes is a gem for readers who enjoy sweet, clean romances that tug at the heartstrings while stirring up laughter. It can easily stand alone, but fans of YA love stories will undoubtedly appreciate its place in the Lakeview Prep series. If you’re a teenager navigating the chaotic waters of high school or an adult reminiscing about those days, this book might just remind you that sometimes, the line between love and hate can be delightfully thin.
This read left me with a warm feeling and a longing for more stories about Mia, Carson, and their Lakeview Prep world. If you’re hunting for a fun escape, look no further! Happy reading!