Even though Sloane is not physically there for 90 per cent of the book, she is vibrant on the pages and remains very much a part of Emily's life through a list she leaves for Emily. On it are 13 items, from the silly to the brave.
Apple picking at night? Okay, easy enough.
Dance until dawn? Sure. Why not?
Kiss a stranger? Um...
Go skinny-dipping? Wait... what?
The list sends Emily into frenzy. As a reader, you just know Emily is going to come out stronger and surer after completing the list, but watching her gradual change is immensely gratifying.
While completing the list, Emily finds new friendships in Dawn, Collins, and Frank. I love group dynamics done right. I also love how friendship is the foundation for Emily’s relationship with Frank.
Matson manages to nails a solid sweetheart dude in her character of Frank. Frank is so, so genuinely good. He is the kind who helps old ladies across the street and properly, recycles, and is not even insufferable about it. Emily and Frank’s relationship is filled with banter and moments so perfectly swoony romantic that I want to re-read them over and over.