The exact reason why many reviewers disliked this book is why I loved it. The first half is very different from the second half. The entire book felt like real life to me, rather than a planned plot. It was refreshing to read a book that didn't have an obvious path. I enjoyed the entire thing, but I most enjoyed the feeling of realness. In real life, everything doesn't happen for a reason, everything doesn't have a place in a story arc, everything isn't predictable!
I had complicated feelings about the main character. I'm not sure that I actually liked her. I enjoyed her, and I often agreed with her. I rooted for her. I don't think I'd be her friend. I enjoyed that she was a realistic character with flaws. Sometimes the characters whose stories I like most are the characters who are least like me.
I highly recommend this book and eagerly await the next one!