You Were Never Not Mine: A Dive Into the Lancaster Universe
When I received an email saying I’d been picked for an advanced copy of You Were Never Not Mine, I couldn’t contain my excitement. If you’ve been following my blog for a while, you know about my deep affection for the Lancaster universe created by Monica Murphy. It’s like reuniting with old friends, and this time, we’re meeting the next generation at college! The anticipation was palpable, and I dove in headfirst, ready to experience the latest chapter in a world I adore.
From the moment I met Sinclair and August, I was hooked. Their chemistry crackles like electricity—filled with the classic “I hate you but also want to kiss you” vibes that I adore. August, the son of the much-discussed Whitt Lancaster, intrigues while also triggering some of my concerns about his heritage. Thank goodness he’s not a Whitt 2.0! I found myself cheering for him as he fell hard for Sinclair; his obsession was not only palpable but incredibly fun to witness. Their interactions were a blend of humor and tension that had me laughing while rooting for their romance.
The absence of the dreaded third-act breakup also felt refreshing. Instead of resorting to over-the-top drama, the characters navigate their feelings in a way that’s both relatable and entertaining. While August does exhibit some classic red-flag behavior (he’s Whitt’s son, after all), he also showcases genuine growth and affection. I loved how Murphy has crafted a character who, despite his flaws, manages to become a swoon-worthy boyfriend.
Sinclair herself is a standout. She gives off subtle Arabella vibes but remains unique with her own character depth. I did find some moments with her friend grating, but that didn’t detract from my overall enjoyment. I appreciated her resilience and independence, even if I wasn’t her biggest fan. And don’t get me started on her parents—typical “shitty FMC parents” found in this universe, making me wonder if they truly deserve her!
The writing reflects Murphy’s signature style, which I savor as a reader familiar with the Lancaster books. I loved the playful humor sprinkled throughout; it kept things light and engaging. Yet, as I turned the pages, I couldn’t ignore certain inconsistencies. For instance, I questioned why Arabella and Rowan were still in high school when the timeline didn’t align. Did August simply not care about their progression? Small discrepancies aside, they didn’t ruin my enjoyment; I was too engrossed in Sinclair and August’s story.
Now, let me touch on the epilogues—oh boy! The second epilogue brought up some…I’ll say questionable vibes, with a moment from the past featuring a younger August and Sinclair. Was it necessary? I would argue no. It felt a bit off, given their ages, and knocked a star off my rating.
Ultimately, You Were Never Not Mine is a delightful addition to the Lancaster saga, perfect for fans of the universe, especially those who crave a less dramatic narrative. While it won’t resonate with everyone—particularly Whitt-haters—I’d urge them to give it a shot. August’s charm and Sinclair’s spirit might surprise you.
As for me, I walked away from this book feeling a mix of nostalgia and joy. It has wrapped up a series arc nicely while still leaving the door open for more Lancaster tales. And let’s be honest, I’ll never say no to another visit to this world! Whether you’re already a fan or curious about the hype, this book may just be worth your time. Happy reading!
Discover more about You Were Never Not Mine (Lancaster Prep Next Generation… on GoodReads >>