Book Review: Like You Care: A Dark High School Bully Romance (Devilbend Dynasty Book 1) by Kaydence Snow
When I stumbled upon Like You Care, I was immediately drawn in by its captivating premise and the tantalizing blend of dark themes and high school romance. Kaydence Snow has a way of weaving intricate emotions into her narratives, making readers not just observers but participants in the characters’ journeys. As someone who’s always been fascinated by stories of self-discovery and the complexities of young love, I was eager to dive into this tale of hidden identities and resilience.
At the heart of this story is Mena, a young woman who’s caught in the suffocating web of bullying, struggling to assert her identity in a world that often overlooks her. The writing beautifully captures her feelings of isolation, allowing readers to resonate with her pain and courage. Snow writes Mena in such a relatable way; her insecurities and fears feel both real and raw. The author does a phenomenal job of showcasing Mena’s transformation—from a girl desperate for invisibility to one who craves to be seen, particularly by Turner, the charming boy next door.
Turner, with his cool confidence and undeniable wit, serves as a refreshing contrast to Mena’s struggles. Their unique relationship—formed through secret conversations and nighttime escapades rather than the typical high school meet-cute—adds a layer of intrigue. It is both heartwarming and fraught with tension as Mena grapples with the knowledge that Turner has befriended her tormentors. This dynamic propelled the narrative forward and kept my heart racing as I eagerly turned the pages, wondering how their fates would intertwine.
One of the standout aspects of Like You Care is its exploration of female friendship. Mena’s relationship with her cousins and friends is just as impactful as her budding romance with Turner. It’s a refreshing reminder that while romantic love is important, the bonds of friendship can often be the most empowering. I found myself rooting for Mena not just because of her romantic entanglement, but because of her growth, bolstered by a loving support system that believes in her worth.
While the pacing of the narrative flowed smoothly for the most part, there were moments when secondary plotlines—like the cult subplot—felt a bit shoehorned in. However, the emotional heft of Mena’s bullying and her eventual confrontation with it more than compensated for any narrative hiccups. Mena’s journey through pain to empowerment was both inspiring and encouraging, and I found myself genuinely moved by her story.
In conclusion, I highly recommend Like You Care to anyone who enjoys heart-wrenching tales of resilience wrapped in a high school romance. Kaydence Snow has crafted a story that not only entertains but also resonates on a deeper emotional level. If you’re looking for a book that tackles serious themes while still delivering swoon-worthy moments, this is definitely a read to add to your shelf. I’m already looking forward to exploring more of the Devilbend Dynasty and the characters that await us in the next installments!
Whether you’ve experienced bullying or are just drawn to complex characters and their journeys, this book will leave an imprint on your heart and a wish for more. 🌟
You can find Like You Care: A Dark High School Bully Romance (Devilbend Dynasty Book 1) here >>