When It Happens by Susane Colasanti

From Goodreads:At the start of her senior year in high school, Sara wants two things: to get into a top college and to find true love.Tobey also wants two things for his senior year: to win Battle of the Bands and to make Sara fall in love with him. However, a popular jock named Dave moves in on Sara first. But Tobey’s quirky wit and big blue eyes are hard for Sara to ignore. Plus, he gets the little things that matter to her. Can a slacker rock-star wannabe win the heart of a pretty class brain like Sara?

Hilariously and movingly told through Tobey and Sara’s authentic voices, Susane Colasanti’s debut novel sizzles in its portrayal of two young people searching for The One.

I really liked the dual narration (no surprises there) but I have to say I didn’t warm to Sara as much as I hoped I would. I can’t quite put my finger on why though. I did however, warm to Tobey straight away – he was just so endearing. And some of the. .. er… scenarios that played out in his mind had me laughing. A typical boy I think.

I liked the story much more once Sara and Tobey actually started talking. I really didn’t understand why Sara wasted time on Dave (blech!) and I also didn’t completely understand her reaction to Tobey towards the end of the book. Was it because he lied to her? Was it because she was jealous? Or did it have something to do with her dad? I think I would have liked a bit more focus on her home life and relationship with her mom – it might have explained her character and motivations a bit more.

I loved both Sara and Tobey’s friends – they are all really great characters. And Maggie’s storyline was interesting.

Although I had a few (small) issues I did enjoy this one overall – the romance is really sweet (LOVED the boombox!). I liked that both Tobey and Sara were looking for something real – a genuine connection. Plus I really liked Susane Colasanti's writing style- she did a fabulous job of creating distinct voices for Sara and Tobey. I’ll be checking out more of her books.