Love at Full Tilt by Jenny L. Howe: A Whirlwind of Romance and Adventure
There’s something undeniably appealing about a summer read infused with adventure and the promise of romance, especially when set against the backdrop of an amusement park. Jenny L. Howe’s Love at Full Tilt landed in my hands serendipitously, and I couldn’t resist the allure of an unofficial Orlando Amazing Race within a theme park. As someone who adores the grumpy-sunshine trope and has a soft spot for heartfelt coming-of-age stories, I dove into this vibrant, 373-page Kindle experience with eager anticipation—and I was not disappointed!
At its core, Love at Full Tilt follows a group of recent high school graduates embarking on a scavenger hunt at a fictional theme park, Fableland. The narrative glimmers with themes of self-discovery, friendship, and the bittersweet transitions that come with entering adulthood. Our 18-year-old protagonist’s quest to win a cash prize is layered with a delightful tension stemming from her burgeoning feelings for her teammate Mason. I relished how Howe skillfully navigates the anxiousness of youth, captured perfectly in one memorable line where the protagonist acknowledges her mother’s perpetual worry: “Look out for each other, okay? And check in all the time.”
What struck me the most about Howe’s writing is her ability to craft relatable characters, especially our plus-sized main character, who challenges societal size norms while embarking on this adventure. The inclusion of a nonbinary character also felt fresh, though I found myself wishing for a deeper exploration of their identity. But most importantly, the pacing of the novel is spot-on, and the witty banter amongst friends keeps the energy high. I often found myself chuckling aloud at the humor woven throughout, especially during shared moments of friendly competition and the playful jabs between teammates.
The quotes and references sprinkled throughout the book added layers of charm. For instance, a nod to the exhilarating stakes of the scavenger hunt—“The winner will receive a cash prize of $50,000 and a golden ticket to Fableland Resort… with no blackout days”—perfectly encapsulated the essence of their rivalry and determination. These hints of nostalgia—references to classic literature and movie quotes—created an inclusive ambiance that felt universal, which I genuinely appreciated.
Of course, no book is without its vices. Some of the movie tie-ins felt forced, and there were moments where I felt the narrative might veer into cliché territory. Yet, Mason’s unexpected emotional revelation toward the latter chapters lifted the story back into the five-star realm for me, reinforcing why I love a well-crafted romantic arc.
Ultimately, I wholeheartedly recommend Love at Full Tilt to anyone who enjoys young adult romance infused with a sense of adventure and exploration. While the marketing might suggest it’s suitable for younger teens, I’d place it firmly in the teen (15+) bracket due to its nuanced themes. This book is perfect for readers who appreciate heartfelt character journeys wrapped in the thrill of a treasure hunt.
As I closed the final page, I felt a warm contentment—reminded that, even amidst the chaos of young adulthood, genuine connections and joy can still be found. And you can bet I’ve already added several of Howe’s other works to my TBR list. If you’re longing for a vacation vibe, Love at Full Tilt might just be the enchanting escape you’re looking for! 🌟