Perfect Chemistry

Perfect Chemistry by Simone Elkeles





361 Pages
Publisher:Walker & Company
Category:Young Adult

A fresh, urban twist on the classic tale of star-crossed lovers.

When Brittany Ellis walks into chemistry class on the first day of senior year, she has no clue that her carefully created “perfect” life is about to unravel before her eyes. She’s forced to be lab partners with Alex Fuentes, a gang member from the other side of town, and he is about to threaten everything she's worked so hard for—her flawless reputation, her relationship with her boyfriend, and the secret that her home life is anything but perfect. Alex is a bad boy and he knows it. So when he makes a bet with his friends to lure Brittany into his life, he thinks nothing of it. But soon Alex realizes Brittany is a real person with real problems, and suddenly the bet he made in arrogance turns into something much more. In a passionate story about looking beneath the surface, Simone Elkeles breaks through the stereotypes and barriers that threaten to keep Brittany and Alex apart.

I went into the book having no idea what to expect. It had a gorgeous cover and I wasn't quite into The Luxe, so I switched to this.

Oh My Goodness, I'm glad I did. This book was amazing. Alex and Brittany were amazingly well developed characters. Most of the characters are as well. I think a lot of young adults can relate to this book. No matter where you are, there is undoubtedly racism around. It's considered weird if you're with someone outside of your ethnic group. By breaking this barrier, this book truly becomes close to a modern Romeo and Juliet.

All the characters reactions are real, which is always a real plus. The book also shows the 'ugly' side of being perfect in a new light which is totally unexpected. Most books follow the "my-perfect-life-really-isn't-perfect-because-my-dad's-a-drunk-plan" or something similar. Also Elkeles handles a delicate subject -gang life- in a realistic light that's not over played.

One of my only true issues with this entire book is Brittany's parents. While the reason Brittany's life isn't perfect is a hard thing to live with, it shouldn't destroy a family like it did.

Four out of Five Stars or B+