Review Detail

PAST PRESENT FUTURE is an intriguing sequel to a YA romance that follows the relationship through the turmoil of long distance. The story is told in alternating points-of-view with Rowan and Neil during their freshman year of college, in different cities. While they had a whirlwind romance, they are now figuring out who they want to be in college and how their relationship fits in.

What I loved: The book does a great job at capturing the start of college experience. They have left behind the people in their hometown who know everything about them, being able to invent themselves anew in college - but who will they be? Neil is no longer surrounded by people who know about his father and family, and he finds freedom in the new friendships he is able to make. He is dealing with a new personal problem that is becoming more apparent to himself when alone in a new city.

Rowan has long dreamed of being a writer, and she is struggling to find her voice in the creative writing class she was so excited to take. In addition to that, she is finding a lot of conflict in the messages others send about her relationship. Struggles with classes, mental illness, friendships, and long-distance (friendships or relationships) are themes that many college-aged readers will recognize and speak to the experience well.

This book does get a bit spicier in places, and it may work best for an older YA audience (for whom the college experience would generally be more relevant as well).

What left me wanting more: The book felt a bit meandering in places as some passages felt like filler. It does broaden the world of the two main characters, but it did not have the focus and fast-pace that would really pull the reader in as a result. That being said, it does continue the relationship well with a frequent enough connection that it still feels central.

Final verdict: Overall, PAST PRESENT FUTURE is an intriguing sequel that will work well for readers who like themes of long-distance relationships and college or just want to hear more from Rowan and Neil.