Review of Better Than the Movies by Lynn Painter
Sometimes a book comes along that feels like a warm hug, and Better Than the Movies by Lynn Painter is exactly that for me. I found myself diving into this delightful read during a time when I really needed something to lift my spirits, and boy, did it deliver! With its irresistibly cute enemies-to-lovers trope and a healthy dose of rom-com nostalgia, this book has officially found its place on my comfort shelf.
At the heart of Better Than the Movies is Liz, a relatable and endearing protagonist, grappling with her feelings for her lifelong crush while navigating the chaotic world of high school. What struck me about Liz was how authentically she embodies the struggle of adolescence—trying to figure out life, love, and friendship, all while balancing her passion for music and movies. Much like Liz, I find solace in playlists, and I couldn’t help but be inspired to create my own “Wes and Liz” soundtrack after reading.
And then there’s Wes, the charming bad boy next door, who had me swooning from the moment he stepped onto the page. He’s got that sweet yet teasing vibe that makes him utterly irresistible. The banter between him and Liz is nothing short of electric; their moments of denial and eventual realization of their feelings left me both laughing and shouting at the book. I mean, who doesn’t love a good “just kiss him already!” moment?
Painter’s writing style is refreshingly relatable and often hilarious. The pacing is spot on—just when you think things are settling down, a new round of drama unfolds, keeping you on your toes. Plus, the chapter openings with quotes from iconic rom-coms? Pure genius! They resonate with anyone who’s ever found comfort in the predictable plotlines of their favorite films.
One of my absolute favorite lines was, “I fell in love with teasing you in the second grade, when I first discovered that I could turn your cheeks pink with just a word. Then I fell in love with you.” It beautifully captures the essence of childhood love morphing into something deeper—a sentiment that stays with you long after you’ve turned the last page.
Of course, no book is without its quirks. I noticed a few repetitive mentions of Wes’s “big hands,” which felt a tad overblown at times. But honestly, amidst all the laughter and tender moments, it hardly dampened my enjoyment.
As I curled up with this book, I was reminded of the joy found in romantic comedies—those moments steeped in drama, miscommunication, and just the right amount of cheesiness. Even as the story moved through its ups and downs, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment for finishing this book in just a few sitting. And while I still find myself in a reading slump, Better Than the Movies remains my beacon of hope and comfort.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a heartwarming, lighthearted story filled with relatable characters, delightful humor, and all the tropes that make rom-coms so lovable. Whether you’re looking for an escape from reality or simply a dose of delightful fluff, this book has it all. I know I’ll be diving into it again whenever I need a little pick-me-up—because who wouldn’t want to relive the antics of Wes and Liz? Perfect for anyone who’s ever cried over a rom-com while secretly wishing for a love story of their own. 🌟❤️
5 stars!
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