Book Review: Excuse Me While I Ugly Cry by Joya Goffney
Have you ever stumbled upon a book that mirrors your quirks so perfectly, it feels like the author wrote it just for you? That was my experience with Joya Goffney’s debut, Excuse Me While I Ugly Cry. As someone who scribbles lists on napkins and random scraps of paper (guilty as charged!), Quinn’s obsessive compulsion to catalog her life resonated deeply with me. This book is much more than just a coming-of-age romance; it’s a profound journey through fear, vulnerability, and the messy beauty of growing up.
The story revolves around Quinn, a charmingly imperfect high schooler whose lists serve as her safety net—a space where she can confront her anxieties without actually having to face them. But when her secret journal is exposed—thanks to an anonymous blackmailer—she’s thrust into a whirlwind of self-discovery. To reclaim her narrative, Quinn must confront seven of her greatest fears, enlisting the help of Carter Bennett, the last known keeper of her precious lists. Watching their relationship evolve from reluctant allies to something more was both delightful and heartwarming.
Goffney’s writing style is fresh and relatable, effortlessly blending humor with moments of introspection. The pacing felt just right, keeping me engaged as Quinn navigated her fears and insecurities. I found myself laughing out loud in some moments while tearing up in others. The juxtaposition of laughter and tears really captures the chaotic nature of teenage life, reminding us that it’s okay to feel everything all at once.
One of my favorite moments in the book comes from Quinn’s realization that vulnerability isn’t weakness; it’s a form of courage. She states, “How can I be brave if I’m not willing to be broken?” This poignant quote lingered long after I closed the book, highlighting how often we shy away from our true selves due to fear of judgment. Goffney masterfully tackles themes of identity and self-acceptance, showing that it’s perfectly fine to be a work in progress.
The chemistry between Quinn and Carter is palpable, filled with that delightful tension that makes the pages practically sizzle. Their character development is rich and realistic, and I appreciated how Goffney took the time to flesh out secondary characters, enriching the narrative. Each character contributes to Quinn’s journey, providing perspectives that challenge her to emerge stronger and more authentic.
If you’re a fan of heartfelt YA romances like Jenny Han’s To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before or Kristina Forest’s I Wanna Be Where You Are, you’ll adore Excuse Me While I Ugly Cry. It’s a beautiful exploration of teenage angst wrapped in a delightful rom-com package. The reading experience left me reflecting on my own fears and triumphs, and I came away feeling inspired to tackle my own lists of fears—whatever they may be.
So, to anyone looking for a humorous yet profound read about love, self-discovery, and the courage to be vulnerable, I highly recommend picking up Joya Goffney’s debut. You just might find a little bit of yourself in Quinn’s journey through the chaos of growing up. Happy reading!