Breathing by Cheryl Renee Herbsman

Savannah would be happy to spend the summer in her coastal Carolina town working at the library and lying in a hammock reading her beloved romance novels. But then she meets Jackson. Once they lock eyes, she’s convinced he’s the one—her true love, her soul mate, a boy different from all the rest. And at first it looks like Savannah is right. Jackson abides by her mama’s strict rules, and stays by her side during a hospitalization for severe asthma, which Savannah becomes convinced is only improving because Jackson is there. But when he’s called away to help his family—and seems uncertain about returning—Savannah has to learn to breathe on her own, both literally and figuratively.

Breathing was a very cute, quick and fun read. Herbsman’s writing transported me to a different place! I felt like I just came back from a southern beach side getaway.

Savannah was a bit excessively melodramatic for me at times, but I guess that’s how extreme first love can be. So although it was slightly annoying at times it also helped reinforce her realism. I wish I could have learned the story from Jackson’s perspective. I didn’t fully understand why he was so drawn to Savannah, yes she is passionate about what she wants… but why was that attractive for him. I guess I didn’t feel wrapped up in their love story, because I felt like I was missing half of it.

I liked how Herbsman shared a story of lasting first love, so many times teens are underestimated when it comes to knowing love. “Oh you’re only a teenager you don’t know what love is.” Don’t act like you’ve never heard it! But it happens (my in-laws for instance, who are still very almost sickening in love today!) and it was refreshing to read a non-perfect, realistic rendition.

Herbsman’s notable writing skills as a debut author are sure to impress. As well as her unique characters and heartening story.