Book Review: Crossing the Line (Pushing the Limits #1.5) by Katie McGarry

Summary: 

Lila McCormick, Echo's best friend from Pushing the Limits, first met Lincoln Turner when tragedy struck both their lives. But she never expected their surprise encounter would lead to two years of exchanging letters—or that she’d fall for the boy she’s only seen once. Their relationship is a secret, but Lila feels closer to Lincoln than anyone else. Until she finds out that he lied to her about the one thing she depended on him for the most.

Hurting Lila is the last thing Lincoln wanted. For two years, her letters have been the only thing getting him through the day. Admitting his feelings would cross a line he’s never dared breach before. But Lincoln will do whatever it takes to fix his mistakes, earn Lila’s forgiveness—and finally win a chance to be with the girl he loves.

Release Date: April 1, 2013

Age Group: YA

Source: Purchased

Review:

Katie McGarry is one of my favorite contemporary fiction authors, and I love her Pushing the Limits series.  I admit that I don't remember much about Lila from Pushing the Limits.  It's been a while since I read that book and the minor characters are fuzzy for me.  But, you don't have to remember much about Lila from book one to enjoy Crossing the Line. 

I love it when people fall in love over a long period of time, and corresponding via letters makes it even more special.  I think it's such a romantic notion, to write letters back and forth.  McGarry includes portions of the letters between Lila and Lincoln at the beginning of each chapter.  I loved that because it showed the progression and slow build of their relationship.

McGarry uses a first-person dual narrative.  I love that narrating style in contemporary romance because it really lets the reader get to know each character.  Crossing the Line had a more detailed plot than I would have expected.  I loved the look into Lincoln's home life and the part about Lila's revenge on her tormentors was great.  I love a strong female lead, and while Lila initially appears weak, she's really quite tough.

The ending was very sweet and appropriate.  I would love for Lila and Lincoln to have their own full-length novel at some point: I think there's definitely enough to their respective stories to warrant more time spent on them.

If you haven't read Katie McGarry, I highly recommend her books!