Review of Thanks to You (You, #2) by Iza
As I turn the final pages of Thanks to You, I find myself engulfed in a tug-of-war of emotions: laughter mingling with tears, joy intertwined with heartache. Iza has crafted a world that feels like home, a place I never wanted to leave. This book resonated with me deeply, reminding me of the essential truth in the dedication: “With good things, it’s great to start and painful to end.” That’s exactly how I feel—grateful, yet sorrowful, as I bid farewell to these beloved characters.
In this heart-wrenching sequel, we dive back into the lives of Oliver, Leila, and their tight-knit circle of friends. Iza’s portrayal of friendship and the concept of family—not bound by blood but through genuine support—reminded me of my own cherished connections. The depth of Oliver’s struggle to reunite with his younger brother, Victor, is both compelling and devastating. Every step of his fight is a testament to love and resilience, pulling at my heartstrings with every chapter.
Leila stands out as a beacon of kindness; the girl with a heart of gold struggles under the weight of her selflessness. Iza’s deft handling of Leila’s challenges, especially her fraught relationship with her sister and the emotional toll it takes, felt personal and poignant. As readers, we witness the consequences of neglecting one’s own needs, which struck a chord in me and added layers to her character that made her journey all the more compelling.
One of the standout aspects of Thanks to You is Iza’s writing style—lyrical yet grounded, perfectly balancing the beautiful with the heartbreaking. Her narrative flows with such grace that I often found myself lost in the ebb and flow of the story, savoring each word. There are moments of sheer brilliance, such as when Oliver reflects on his past—these passages are rich with emotion and resonate long after you have turned the page.
The dialogues sparkle with authenticity, revealing the strength of their bonds. I can still hear the laughter and feel the warmth between the characters, reminding me that no matter how dark times may get, having a chosen family can create light in even the grimest situations.
However, be warned: this book does address heavy themes like self-harm, death, and panic attacks. It’s a raw and unflinching look at mental health that might be overwhelming for some. I appreciated Iza’s honesty, but I also felt the weight of her words. It’s crucial readers approach the book with self-awareness and care, ensuring their mental health is a priority.
As I conclude my journey with Oliver, Leila, and their crew, I’m reminded of the essential message that shines throughout: never lose faith in a better tomorrow. Iza’s Thanks to You is not just a sequel; it’s an emotional experience that leaves you feeling seen and understood.
If you love stories that delve deep into human connections and the struggles we endure, then this book is undoubtedly for you. I will cherish the memories I’ve created within these pages and look forward to revisiting them, long after saying my goodbyes. So, grab a tissue—or a couple—and prepare to have your heart both shattered and pieced back together. This is a read that will linger in your mind and spirit long after the last page is turned ❤️🩹.
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