It’s been three years since Mia walked out of Adams life.
And three years he’s spent wondering why.
When their paths cross again in New York City, Adam and Mia are brought back together for one life-changing night. Adam finally has the opportunity to ask Mia the questions that have been haunting him. But will a few hours in this magical city be enough to lay their past to rest, for good or can you really have a second chance at first love?
Having devoured If I Stay in one sitting I waited expectantly for the Continuation of Mia and Adam’s story. Where She Went is set three years after the events of If I Stay.
The subject of miles of gossip column print, a superstar girlfriend on his arm and a bathroom cabinet full of prescription medications, Adam is a 21 year old rock god.
A chance encounter enables the couple to reunite for one night. Through a series of flashbacks and moving song lyrics we explore the lead up to, and the aftermath of, their break up from Adams’ first person perspective. The camping flashback is probably one of the sweetest romantic scene I’ve read this year. Adams voice is honest with a maturity that reflects his experiences of grief, loss and unfulfilled expectations.
The major supporting character in the book is New York City. The descriptive narrative completely immersed me in the sights, sounds and smell of the city. If I ever have the opportunity to visit NYC I will be adding Mia’s places to my itinerary. Never mind breakfast at Tiffany’s, I want black coffee and vanilla scented croissants in the historic district.
Although the premise of this book is not as harrowing as the preceding novel, suffering from less tear-stained pages, Where She Went contains it’s fair share of ‘bash their heads together’, will they won’t they, heart in the mouth moments.
Verdict: Another Gayle Forman triumph consumed in one sitting. Definitely one for the re-read pile.
Reviewed by Caroline