A Little Something Different by Sandy Hall

A little something different - That’s exactly how I would describe this cutesy romance novel by Sandy Hall. This book revolves around the two protagonists Lea and Gabe who go to the same creative writing class. They obviously have chemistry (Duh! This is a romance after all), but both of them are too shy and awkward to act on their feelings. The whole novel is literally about how practically everyone wants to yell “Just kiss already!” at them.

They sit there in the window of the coffee shop for almost an hour, not talking much, but looking at each other over the tops of their books, flirting somehow even without words. It would be gross if it weren’t adorable. - Sandy Hall, A Little Something Different

For me, the sole selling point of this book is that it is told through 14 different points of view, but none of them is from our lovebirds - Lea and Gabe. Throughout the whole story, the readers only read from the perspectives of the so-called “by-standers,” including a forgetful squirrel and a butt-obsessed old bench. Despite the staggering number of perspectives, the transitions are pretty smooth, making it relatively easy to “keep track of” our lovely lovebirds. Although the writing is mediocre, I thoroughly enjoy the concept of this book. It’s refreshing to read a romance story from the perspectives of other people. Out of all the secondary characters, it’s probably not very surprising that my favourite is Charlotte - the grumpy barista. Her storyline is consistent and believable. Plus, I find her relatable because her attitude towards Lea and Gabe resembles how I react to adorably loving couples - with a sorta grumpy adoration.

If you are looking for a quirky, lighthearted read with simplistic writing and adorable rom-com clichés, this book will definitely be a good match for you. It’s the kind of fluffy book that will brighten your day and pull you out of a reading slump. Will I read it again? Not necessarily, but I have to admit that I’m so glad I picked this up.