Review of The Plus-One Pact: A YA Contemporary Romance Novella by Calla Finn
It’s always refreshing when a book draws you in just by the title alone, and The Plus-One Pact did just that. The promise of a “totally doomed” pact between two seemingly opposite characters piqued my curiosity. As a fan of young adult romance, I couldn’t resist diving into the world that Calla Finn crafted, especially since the tale revolves around themes of vulnerability, friendship, and the hilariously complicated mess that is high school love.
Tessa James, our quiet protagonist, resonates with anyone who’s ever felt a bit invisible. Hiding behind her camera as the yearbook editor and an oversized hoodie, she seems to embody that introverted spirit many of us know well. Conversely, Leo Donovan—the cocky, charming soccer star—epitomizes everything Tessa avoids: attention, flirtation, and the chaos of teenage drama. Their arrangement to be platonic plus-ones for the rest of junior year is intriguing and serves as a foundation for some seriously entertaining—and often heartwarming—moments.
Finn’s writing style is engaging and fluid, allowing Tessa’s insecurities and Leo’s charming bravado to dance off the page effortlessly. The pacing is just right for a novella, capturing the essence of their growing bond without feeling rushed. I especially appreciated how each event they attended peeled back layers of their personalities, revealing deeper vulnerabilities and desires. It made me smile to see how their platonic agreement morphed into something that felt achingly real and relatable.
One of my favorite elements was the way Tessa navigated her feelings. Her internal monologues often struck a chord—reinforcing that familiar struggle of wanting to be seen but feeling secure in invisibility. There’s a sweet moment where she realizes that “sometimes, the safest place to be is next to someone who gets you.” It’s a sentiment that echoes deeply and seems to encapsulate the essence of high school relationships—fraught yet exhilarating.
The supporting characters added delightful complexity, providing comic relief and wisdom in doses that perfectly complemented Tessa and Leo’s journeys. The witty banter among friends reminded me of countless experiences with my own crew. Whether it was watching a movie marathon or unraveling the tangled web of teenage heartthrobs, it felt like a nostalgic trip down memory lane.
The Plus-One Pact isn’t just about the thrills of young romance; it’s also a gentle reminder of the value of stepping out of your comfort zone and risking your heart for genuine connection. Anyone who has ever felt alone in a crowd or harbored a secret crush will find a piece of themselves in Tessa’s story.
I wholeheartedly recommend this novella to readers who enjoy swoony romances like those by Jenny Han or Kasie West. It’s a light yet meaningful read that celebrates the chaos and joy of falling for someone who challenges you. After immersing myself in Tessa and Leo’s world, I’m left feeling a sweet ache of nostalgia and hope—a reminder that vulnerability can lead to the most beautiful connections.
In the end, The Plus-One Pact is more than just a tale of fake dating; it’s about finding your voice and embracing who you are while navigating the tumultuous waters of high school. I can’t wait to see what Finn has in store for us next in this delightful series!
You can find The Plus-One Pact: A YA Contemporary Romance Novella (The Pact Series Book 1) here >>