I think that when Leah Johnson writes a book, she somehow folds pieces of actual sunshine into her writing - that's how much joy her stories bring me!

Rise to the Sun should be required reading this summer (and every summer to follow). From the moment I began listening to the audiobook, I was hooked - desperate to learn more about Olivia and Toni. They were both incredibly relatable in so many ways. They'd been through their fair share of hardships and it played a huge part in their unlikely friendship-turned-relationship.

Even though this book is YA, it didn't read "young" and I hope that makes sense. Whether you're 16 or 36, you'll absolutely enjoy the story. Rather than finding myself rolling my eyes at some sort of predictable romance, I was wrapped up in how the characters worked through some seriously challenging moments and ultimately found themselves because they found each other. Yep, I realize how cheesy that sounds but I'm sticking with it.

This book makes you feel good without lacking depth, is what I'm really trying to say here. So please, do yourself a favor and read this book right away.

Oh - and if you already read You Should See Me in a Crown, you will love the fun cameo! I think I actually spooked my cat because I squealed so loudly at the reference. Sorry, kitty.