Not Your #Lovestory by Sonia Hartl

Publisher: Page Street Kids
Publication Date: September 1, 2020
Genres: Young Adult, Romance, Contemporary
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Book Review

Macy Evans wants nothing more than to earn enough money from her YouTube channel to move out of her small Missouri town. But when she meets blogger Eric at a baseball game, and a total stranger posts a compromising picture of the two of them, Macy skyrockets to fame overnight. Eric, eager to take advantage of the newfound fame for his gain, convinces Macy they should create a narrative around their fake relationship. At first, Macy agrees, especially after she seems the monetary benefits to her YouTube channel. But then she starts to see the impact on her real life, namely to any potential relationship between her and longtime friend Paxton. Macy must decide how far she’s willing to go for her fifteen minutes of fame.

Not Your #Lovestory features interesting commentary on social media, internet fame, and slut-shaming. Macy is thrown in the spotlight when a popular drama blogger claims she fooled around with a boy she just met and Macy instantly becomes the highlight of commentary and criticism for her supposed actions by people she doesn’t know. She starts to see the effects of her newfound fame in good ways (thousands of new followers, views on her YouTube channel), and bad ways (random strangers showing up at her house, criticism from strangers).

I loved Macy’s unapologetic way of speaking her mind and being very direct. She cares so much about her friends and family and goes out of her way to make them happy. The story is told entirely in the first person from her perspective and she’s just so endearing and kind. I also loved Paxton, her sweet friend who is in love with her. He raises rabbits for the county fair and is so unbelievably wholesome and genuine. I rooted for him the entire time.

If you are a fan of YA that deals with feminist issues in a smart way, Not Your #Lovestory is for you! 

Thank you to Page Street Books and Netgalley for the review copy. All opinions are my own.