Almost Like Being in Love: A Novel — A Journey Back to First Love
When I first laid eyes on “Almost Like Being in Love” by Josh Lanyon, I felt an immediate tug at my heartstrings. The premise—two unlikely lovers reconnecting two decades after their youthful romance—echoed echoes of my own past and perhaps that universal sense of nostalgia that we all carry. This epistolary tale, brimming with humor and poignancy, promised to explore the nuances of that first great love, and I couldn’t resist diving in.
The story revolves around Travis and Craig, high school seniors from different worlds—a jock and a nerd—who share a magical summer that forever alters their lives. As they part to pursue their respective paths in college, you can’t help but feel the tension of youthful uncertainty. The narrative masterfully captures the excitement of those formative experiences against the bittersweet backdrop of what might have been. It’s a familiar tale, yet Lanyon infuses it with freshness through his lively characters and vibrant correspondence style.
What struck me most about Lanyon’s writing is how he weaves humor with genuine emotion. The epistolary format, consisting of letters, texts, and checklists, cleverly reflects how relationships evolve over time. Each communication is a window into the characters’ thoughts and feelings, and I found myself laughing out loud at some of their exchanges, the comedic timing is impeccable. One particularly memorable moment has Travis joking about what he’d give up to find Craig again—“even my favorite hoodie.” This sentiment hilariously encapsulates the blurred lines between love and attachment.
As the years roll on, we see how Travis and Craig have grown into their careers and lives, yet a lingering emptiness pervades their successes. My heart twisted at Travis’s realization that despite his achievements, a piece of him is irrevocably linked to Craig. It’s a theme that resonates deeply with anyone who’s loved and lost—how easily we can drift apart yet remain bound by threads of affection only time can fray.
Lanyon’s pacing keeps the momentum alive; chapters flow smoothly, balancing between introspection and humor. The plot’s evolution feels natural, without falling prey to the common pitfalls of rushed resolutions. As they embark on a journey to reunite, you can’t help but root for them, feeling a thrilling mix of hope and anxiety.
The book not only appeals to fans of LGBTQ+ literature but also to anyone who has ever pondered the ‘what ifs’ of their first love. It serves as a sweet reminder that love is often messy, filled with glorious missteps and serendipitous encounters.
In conclusion, “Almost Like Being in Love” is a heartfelt exploration of love, loss, and the whimsical paths we take on our journeys. If you’ve ever found yourself nostalgic for that first crush or the echoes of a simpler time, this novel will surely resonate with you. Trust me; it’s a delightful read that might just prompt you to reach out to that old flame you’ve been thinking about—after all, life is too short not to chase what makes us happy, even if it means making a fool of ourselves. Happy reading!