Dear Emmie Blue

What a charming book! I really enjoyed this one. I had never heard of this author, but when the publisher sent me access to an early copy and I read the synopsis, I was excited to read it. The concept of a teenage girl releasing a balloon with a message and a boy in another country finding it and beginning a friendship is just lovely. It hooked me.

Most of the characters in the book are sweet and lovable. Emmie Blue had a difficult childhood, but her friendship with Lucas Moreau has carried her through her toughest times. Now, Lucas is getting married, and Emmie is conficted because she thinks she is in love with him. Through the course of the story, we see Emmie come to terms with several aspects of her life. She learns what love really is, and it isn't what she expected. I particularly enjoyed reading about her growing friendship with Eliot, Lucas' brother. Eliot is a great character because he is compassionate and genuine. He might just be my new book character crush! There are several other side characters in this book that add depth and enjoyment to the plot, especially Emmie's landlord Louise.

The plot has some moments that are frustrating because characters are completely misunderstanding each other. I get a bit tired of female characters getting so caught up in their own insecurities that they misread the motives of the men in their lives. However, that minor annoyance does not detract from the overall enjoyment of this book.

I would definitely recommend this book to others. I thoroughly enjoyed my time inside this story line. Emmie Blue is a character that is endearing and memorable.