Summer Camp Romance: Wish You Weren’t Here Review

Publication Date: June 4, 2023

Author: Erin Baldwin

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Synopsis

Juliette doesn’t hate Priya Pendley.

At least, not in the way teen movies say she should hate the hot popular girl. They don’t do cat fights, love triangles, or betrayal. To survive their intertwined small town lives, they agree to a truce: complete group projects without fighting, don’t gossip to mutual friends, and stand on opposite sides of photos so it’s easy to crop each other out.

Priya seems to have everything during the school year—social media stardom, the handsome track captain boyfriend, and millions of adoring fans. And Juliette is at peace with that, because she has Fogridge Sleepaway Camp, the one place she never feels like “too much.”

But Juliette’s dreams of five Priya-free weeks in paradise are shattered when her rival shows up on move-in day… as her cabinmate, no less. Juliette is determined to enjoy her final summer at camp, even if it means (gag) tolerating Priya Pendley, but fate seems has other plans. If Juliette can’t find something to like about her situation—and about Priya—she risks hating the only home she’s ever had, right before she says goodbye to it forever.

Review

Erin Baldwin’s “Wish You Weren’t Here” delivers a delightful summer camp romance filled with heart, humor, and genuine emotion. With a relatable protagonist, engaging plot, and well-crafted relationships, this novel is sure to capture the hearts of readers.

At the heart of the story is Juliette, a teenage girl navigating the complexities of friendship, rivalry, and self-discovery. Baldwin skillfully brings Juliette to life, allowing readers to empathize with her struggles and root for her growth throughout the narrative. Juliette’s journey of self-acceptance and understanding is both poignant and relatable, making her a compelling and memorable protagonist.

The dynamic between Juliette and Priya, her rival turned cabinmate, adds depth and complexity to the story. While the premise may seem familiar, Baldwin breathes new life into the enemies-to-tolerating-to-friends-to-lovers trope, crafting a nuanced and authentic relationship between the two characters. Their banter is entertaining, their conflicts feel genuine, and their eventual camaraderie is both satisfying and earned.

One of the novel’s strengths lies in its portrayal of summer camp life. Baldwin captures the nostalgic essence of camp, infusing the setting with warmth, camaraderie, and a sense of adventure. From campfire sing-alongs to cabin pranks, the atmosphere is vividly depicted, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the world of Fogridge Sleepaway Camp alongside Juliette and her friends.

The romance subplot is sweet and well-developed, providing a heartwarming counterbalance to the main storyline. Baldwin takes her time to build the connection between Juliette and her love interest, allowing their relationship to unfold naturally and authentically. The inclusion of queer representation adds an important layer of diversity to the narrative, further enriching the story.

While the novel excels in many aspects, there are some minor flaws, such as the unresolved situation with Galahad. However, these shortcomings are overshadowed by the overall strength of the storytelling and character development.

In conclusion, “Wish You Weren’t Here” is a charming and heartfelt summer read that will appeal to fans of YA romance. With its engaging characters, well-crafted relationships, and nostalgic camp setting, this novel is sure to leave readers with a smile on their faces and a warm feeling in their hearts.