Arthur is only in New York for the summer, but if Broadway has taught him 
anything, it’s that the universe can deliver a showstopping romance when you least expect it.
Ben thinks the universe needs to mind its business. If the universe had his back, he wouldn’t be on his way to the post office carrying a box of his ex-boyfriend’s things.
But when Arthur and Ben meet-cute at the post office, what exactly does the universe have in store for them?
Maybe nothing. After all, they get separated.
Maybe everything. After all, they get reunited.
But what if they can’t quite nail a first date . . . or a second first date . . . or a third?
What if Arthur tries too hard to make it work . . . and Ben doesn’t try hard enough?
What if life really isn’t like a Broadway play?
But what if it is?
The category for one of my book clubs was to choose a book from a genre I don’t usually read. For me, that’s a YA romance.
I’d read Simon vs. The Homo Sapiens Agenda and adored Simon’s voice, so another Albertalli book was an easy selection for me. Ben and Arthur are just as charismatic and super nerdy in their own ways. After their meet cute, they finally locate each other in an amusing way. I laughed over some of their conversations and first dates – yes, plural – that were awkward and disastrous. The friendships are done so well, and one of my favorite things about the book, as are the characters’ relationships with their parents.
Yes, it was a bit predictable, but I was so pleased with the ending. No spoilers here. What If It’s Us is heartwarming and amusing with characters you’ll fall in love with, and a pleasure to read.
Books and Such 
It definitely surprised me to see a romance on your blog (until I read why). Glad you found some good things in a trope you don’t enjoy.
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I identified with their nerdiness, lol – Ben and Arthur are my people.
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It’s always interesting when you read out of your genre and then discover a book you like!
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I know, right? I don’t think I could read this genre on a regular basis, but I sure enjoy Albertalli’s books. Both of these authors did an outstanding job with characterization in this novel.
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An interesting change of pace, Teri. Thanks for your insights. Hugs!
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Yep – you usually don’t find romance book reviews in these parts, lol. Hugs, Teagan!
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Always good to have a happy read. Thanks, Teri. Good review.
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Thanks, John! This was a fun read.
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I saw this on NetGalley and the cover caught my eye. Fabulous review, Teri, thanks!
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Thanks, Jacquie! Think I loved every character in the book, lol.
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Oh my goodness this sounds so cutesy! I love everything about this synopsis, I haven’t read anything by Becky Albertalli and Adam Silvera so may have to start off with this!
Great review
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Thanks, Jordann! It was a fun, adorable read, and if you haven’t read anything by either of these authors, you’re in for a treat.
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This sounds like a fun read, Teri. I have been reading the odd romance but more murder mystery romance. I am hoping I’ll get braver about writing romance if I read it more and it is rather fun.
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You’re braver than I am, Robbie – I’d have no idea how to go about writing a romance. My characters would be totally awkward, unbelievable, and a frustration to the reader, lol.
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You had a bit of romance in both your books, Teri.
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A little bit is usually expected in YA, and that much I can handle. But it still feels awkward when I write it.
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It doesn’t show at all.
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I’ll take that compliment – thanks so much, Robbie!
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Reblogged this on Where Genres Collide Traci Kenworth YA Author & Book Blogger.
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Thanks, Traci!
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Oooh yes it’s a change of genre here! Happy that you loved it Teri!
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Yep – this isn’t the typical place to find YA romance book reviews, but I really enjoyed this one, Sophie.
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Nice post I loved it! 💜💙
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Thanks! Not my typical read, but I loved these guys.
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