One Way or Another by Kara McDowell is an adorable contemporary romance perfect for fans of Again, But Better. Let me tell you, this book needs to be on every Christmas list! McDowell manages to capture the magic of the holiday season and infuse it into every page.
Paige has always struggled to make decisions, so it only makes sense that this story hinges upon the biggest choice of her life: to spend Christmas at her crush’s cabin or take the trip of a lifetime to New York City. The influence of a magic 8-ball app takes the decision out of Paige’s hands. What results just may prove that one decision won’t affect what’s meant to be.
It is so refreshing to see anxiety rep in a main character. I personally don’t suffer from anxiety, so I cannot attest to the accuracy of this rep, but it seems like the kind of thing that everyone experiences differently. Regardless, Paige is a quirky and relatable MC. I enjoyed her journey through self-discovery and applaud the awareness that she developed through the course of the novel. I adored Fitz. He is charming, caring, and endearingly clumsy when it comes to his romantic ventures. The tension of their friendship kept me tearing through pages wanting to know what happened next.
McDowell uses a unique, “multiverse” writing device to explore multiple storylines. I was so relieved to be able to follow the consequences of each choice. I never knew what I was missing! I will forever be ruined of the sacrifice of only knowing one story line. I desire multiverse storylines for every book now. In all seriousness, this was a satisfying plot tactic and I love that it ends without a choice being divulged.
One Way or Another was released on October 6, 2020. I highly recommend it for anyone seeking a cute YA romance with a bit of holiday magic.
Thank you to the author for providing me with a free copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.