This was an enjoyable read. I really liked getting to know Karina and Ace, and went through all of the ups and downs with them. I will try to sum up my thoughts without revealing any spoilers.

Karina has very strict parents who hold her to very specific standards, like following a pre-med track and becoming a doctor even though she isn’t great at math and science and would prefer to focus her studies on English and literature. Karina rarely receives praise from her parents, while her younger brother can seem to do no wrong. Karina is unhappy, but feels like there is nothing she can do to change the direction of her life, not without losing her family… something she has seen happen to a cousin. While her parents are out of the country, she has 30 days to be herself and spend time with her friends.

I felt Karina’s pain as she struggled with her own dreams and her parents’ expectations for the future. But having her friends, grandmother, and Ace in her corner definitely helped. Even Karina’s brother was supportive once his eyes were opened to what was happening.

And I loved Ace. He was so incredibly supportive, encouraging and understanding of Karina. He championed her, but was willing to step back if that was what she needed. Plus, I mean, he bought her books!

There was a roller coaster ride of emotions while reading this one, and while there was some progress made in Karina’s relationship with her parents, she is still hiding much of her life and her dreams from them. While I was encouraged by the ending, I know that the odds are still stacked against her.

Disclaimer: I received an eARC of this book through Net Galley on behalf of the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.