The Rival by Emma Lord

 The Rival by Emma Lord is a delightful young adult romantic comedy.  Sadie and Sebastian have grown up next door to each other, with parents who are good friends, and who compete with each other on everything.  They graduate and end up at the same college, and competing again for a space on the school newspaper.  Together they uncover flaws with the school, get to know each other better, and begin to wonder if they are truly  on the same page. 

I really enjoyed this one.  The banter, chemistry, and friendship between Sadie and Seb was magnificent.  Both characters grow, become better humans, and change in this coming-of-age story.  I felt caught up in the world of Maple Ridge University and was glad I could visit.  The story will make you want pancakes and wonder why you have not been eating them regularly.   The author did a good job capturing the transition to college, leaving your family, and individuating that happens post high school. 

This book is a wonderful treat filled with sweet romance, good banter, and story that will make you smile.  I highly recommend you read The Rival by EmmaLord with a plate of pancakes.    

I read a traveling ARC and was not required to write a positive review. 

My name’s Emma Lord, and I’m all three Powerpuff Girls in a trench coat, but also an author based in New York City. When I’m not writing, I’m either running, belting show tunes in community theater, or mildly alarming bakery staff with my enthusiasm for cake. My novels include TWEET CUTE (2020), Reese’s YA Book Club pick YOU HAVE A MATCH (2021), WHEN YOU GET THE CHANCE (2022), BEGIN AGAIN (2023), and THE GETAWAY LIST (2024), with upcoming novels THE BREAK-UP PACT (2024) and THE RIVAL (2025). You can find me posting way too much about dessert and books @dilemmalord on Twitter and Instagram.