"Past Present Future" by Rachel Lynn Solomon, published by Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, is the highly anticipated sequel to "Today Tonight Tomorrow." This young adult romance novel continues the story of Rowan and Neil as they transition from high school sweethearts to college students in a long-distance relationship. Solomon's exploration of the complexities of young love and the challenges of maintaining a relationship between state lines are both heartfelt and realistic.
Title: Past Present Future
Author: Rachel Lynn Solomon
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
Pub. Date: June 4, 2024
Formats: Hardcover, eBook, Paperback, Audio, and Audio CD
Pages: 384
When longtime rivals Rowan Roth and Neil McNair confessed their feelings on the last day of senior year, they knew they’d only have a couple months
together before they left for college. Now summer is over, and they’re determined to make their relationship work as they begin school in different places.
In Boston, Rowan is eager to be among other aspiring novelists, learning from a creative writing professor she adores. She’s just not sure why she suddenly can’t seem to find her voice.
In New York, Neil embraces the chaos of the city, clicking with a new friend group more easily than he anticipated. But when his past refuses to leave him alone, he doesn’t know how to handle his rapidly changing mental health—or how to talk about it with the girl he loves.
Over a year of late-night phone calls, weekend visits, and East Coast adventures, Rowan and Neil fall for each other again and again as they grapple with the uncertainty of their new lives. They’ve spent so many years at odds with each other—now that they’re finally on the same team, what does the future hold for them?
With over 135,000 copies sold, "Today Tonight Tomorrow" continues to fly off shelves. Fans have been clamoring for this heartfelt sequel to find out how Rowan and Neil's romance plays out in the future. Did their whirlwind night in Today Tonight Tomorrow lead to a relationship built to last? How did the two grow together after their heated exchanges in the first book? All these questions and more will be answered in this coming-of-age romance-along with giving readers those swoony and steamy romantic moments they loved in "Today Tonight Tomorrow". Like Solomon’s previous books, this book also dives deeply into what it means to be a Jewish teen living in today’s world.
My Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rachel Lynn Solomon returns with a sequel that fans of "Today Tonight Tomorrow" have eagerly awaited. "Past Present Future" picks up where its predecessor left off, with Rowan Roth and Neil McNair embarking on their respective college journeys while trying to keep their budding romance alive.
In Boston, Rowan immerses herself in a creative writing program, grappling with finding her voice amidst new academic pressures. Meanwhile, in New York, Neil navigates the bustling city life and the mental health struggles that his past continually stirs up. Their relationship is tested by distance, late-night calls, and weekend visits, but the chemistry between Rowan and Neil remains as strong as ever.
What stands out in this novel is Solomon's honest depiction of the trials faced by many young couples. The story delves into the reality of long-distance relationships, making it relatable for high school seniors who might be facing similar challenges. The characters' love for books and office supply stores adds a charming, quirky touch to their personalities, making them even more endearing.
However, one of the novel's minor drawbacks is the similarity in the narrative voices of Rowan and Neil. At times, their perspectives blur, making it challenging to distinguish between the two. Despite this, the dual points of view offer a comprehensive look at their individual struggles and growth.
Thank you to Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers and Rachel Lynn Solomon for the book and my honest review.
About the Author:
RACHEL LYNN SOLOMON (she/her/hers) is the New York Times bestselling author of "Today Tonight Tomorrow", The Ex Talk, and other romantic comedies for teens and
adults. Originally from Seattle, she’s currently navigating expat life in Amsterdam, where she’s on a mission to try as many Dutch sweets as possible. Learn more at RachelSolomonBooks.com.
Book Giveaway:
One (1) Hard Copy of "Past Present Future" by Rachel Lynn Solomon. The giveaway ends on June 30, 2024, at Midnight EST. USA only.