We Fell Apart: A Bittersweet Goodbye to E. Lockhart’s Series
As a long-time fan of stories that combine intrigue with vivid character arcs, I was drawn to We Fell Apart with a mix of excitement and trepidation. E. Lockhart’s previous works, We Were Liars and Family of Liars, have garnered a passionate following, so I felt a flicker of hope that this latest installment might finally be the one to win me over. Alas, after diving into this ARC, I find myself sadly contemplating my farewell to the series. 😮💨
We Fell Apart is indeed a love letter to those captivated by summer’s fleeting enchantment, the world of arts, and the nuances of self-discovery—all themes that promise depth and resonance. However, for someone like me who found it difficult to connect with its predecessors, this felt like a struggle more than a journey. The novel beautifully dedicates itself to those who find wonder in painting, video games, and summertime escapades, which seems delightful… until it veers too far into niche territory.
The storyline revolves around Matilda, Meer, and a cast of characters navigating the complexities of youth and creativity. And while I genuinely appreciate the artistic explorations Lockhart attempts, my disinterest in the focal points of gaming and art mirrored my feelings on character development. Matilda comes off as needy and argumentative, leaving little room for likability, while Meer reads younger than his age, burdened by perceptions of weakness. The supporting characters—Brock, Tatum, June, and Kingsley—felt like mere shadows, each with traits that grated rather than resonated.
The pacing, too, left something to be desired. The narrative felt sluggish at times, and my impatience grew, compelling me to speed through sections that felt overly descriptive or drawn out. The writing style was luxurious but sometimes indulgent, pulling me into a half-formed dreamscape rather than a riveting reality. And while I can appreciate a good sentence, it’s tough to remain enthralled when the emotional stakes feel low.
Now, it’s worth noting that the book does possess its stunning visual attributes. Those spray edges? Absolutely gorgeous! I couldn’t help but admire them as I read, wishing the interior could match their vibrancy. Perhaps that’s the book’s greatest irony—I found beauty in its physical form but struggled to find connection with what lay within.
Ultimately, We Fell Apart may appeal to those who fully embraced Lockhart’s prior works. If you adore stories interwoven with artistic endeavors and value character flaws as part of the experience, this might well be a gem for you. However, if, like me, you’ve found yourself less than enchanted with the Sinclair legacy, this installment might just reaffirm your decision to step away.
As I wrap up my reflections, it’s bittersweet to think this might be my last adventure in Lockhart’s world. I wish her nothing but success in her future endeavors, and I’ll continue to seek out stories that resonate deeply with my own tastes and experiences. Thank you, NetGalley and Delacorte Press, for allowing me to explore We Fell Apart. While my connection to this series may have waned, I deeply appreciate the journey of reading itself. Happy reading, fellow book lovers! 📚💖