Review: Two Way Street by Lauren Barnholdt

Synopsis: From GoodReads
There are two sides to every breakup. This is Jordan and Courtney, totally in love. Sure, they were an unlikely high school couple. But they clicked; it worked. They're even going to the same college, and driving cross-country together for orientation. Then Jordan dumps Courtney -- for a girl he met on the Internet. It's too late to change plans, so the road trip is on. Courtney's heartbroken, but figures she can tough it out for a few days. La la la -- this is Courtney pretending not to care. But in a strange twist, Jordan cares. A lot. Turns out, he's got a secret or two that he's not telling Courtney. And it has everything to do with why they broke up, why they can't get back together, and how, in spite of it all, this couple is destined for each other

Review:
Written in 1st person narrative with alternating perspectives of the boyfriend/girlfriend shortly after their breakup.

Jordan and Courtney are complete opposites and the phrase 'opposites attract' kept running through my head. Jordan stars out as your stereotypical jock, while Courtney is a bit geeky, neurotic and obsessive. I could totally relate to Courtney's imagination. At the start of their relationship I felt a bit sorry for Courtney as it looked as if she was just a consolation prize. Yet as their relationship developed you can see the positive effect they have on each other. In the end I absolutely adored the 'new' Jordan.

The book starts in the present day, then time warps back and forth to give a complete picture of their relationship and interactions with their friends and family. I have to be honest and tell you that Courtney's Dad gave me the creeps from the very beginning.

The full plot twist is not revealed until near the end, the tension builds into an explosion of knowledge from all angles.

The book itself is visually dynamic with arrows at the start of the chapter headings - giving it a double meaning. Literally when you think of a road trip and directional arrows but also metaphorically with the past and present narrative.

The narrative gives an intimate look at social networking and how it is sometimes used for nefarious reasons, I did find this a little unnerving.

The reference within the story to The Catcher in the Rye gave the plot an extra element, making me want to read  the book *makes promise to self*.

The changes in their personalities through their relationship was lovely to witness. Although circumstances draw them together for the road trip you can see that they really are perfect for each other. 'Along for the ride' takes on a whole new meaning with this story.

A lovely quick read (I read it in one sitting) which is easy to relate to.