Review: While You're Away by Jessa Holbrook

While You're Away (While You're Away #1) by Jessa Holbrook

Publication Date: October 15, 2013
Page Count: 48
Published by: Razorbill
Source: Review copy received from the publisher in exchange for an honest review

Synopsis From Goodreads:

Once a cheater, always a cheater?

From the moment Will and Sarah first set eyes upon each other, they know that what they have is special.

There's just one little problem . . . each of them already has a significant other.

After flirting with danger, it becomes clear their passion is too strong to be denied. But even if they make their relationship official, there are plenty of challenges in store. Will leaves for college at the end of the summer, while Sarah faces her senior year of high school in their small suburban town. Long-distance relationships always come with their fair share of troubles—mismatched schedules, jealousy, and temptation are only the beginning.

Can cheaters ever change?

WHILE YOU'RE AWAY is a steamy story about a love triangle, a long-distance relationship, and learning the true meaning of commitment.

While You're Away is Part 1 of a 6 part serialized novel, with a new part being released each week. I thought this was an interesting and entertaining start. The writing was really good, and the characters are beginning to be developed. It's not long enough to get the chance to know the characters very well, but you do get some basic background information to help understand them. I read this first part in one sitting because I got so caught up in the developing story.

Sarah and Dave have been together for a while, and they have a certain level of comfort with each other. They have formed a singing and guitar playing duo. The bad thing is that Dave has a habit of flirting and all but ignoring Sarah after their shows. Sarah is fed up with Dave's behavior and seeks out Will at a party. They immediately feel the chemistry between them and end up making out. Will has a reputation of getting around with lots of girls at school. But to me it definitely seemed like there was a lot more going on with Will below the surface. Something wasn't ringing true about his behavior, and I couldn't reconcile his reputation with the way he was acting around Sarah. I can't wait to find out if I am right about him.

I'm not a fan of cheaters, and I find it difficult to root for them. I always get the feeling that they could have made different choices, like end the relationship they don't want to be in, rather than lie and sneak around. I know I'm in the minority, but I like a good triangle when it's done right, but so far I am not enjoying this one. As of now I'm not sure if I can get behind Sarah and Will as a couple when I don't know how I feel about Sarah and Dave. Hopefully, as the story progresses I will get a better feel for which couple I prefer.

It's difficult to rate such a small part of a book, but I really did enjoy what I have read so far. I think this series has a ton of potential and I am interested in reading the next 5 parts.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars