Review: Catch the Sun - Jennifer Hartmann

Review: Catch the Sun - Jennifer Hartmann - July 2024

Jennifer Hartmann delivers an emotionally charged and deeply moving story in Catch the Sun, a novel that seamlessly blends elements of young adult and new adult fiction. With a poignant exploration of love, grief, and resilience, this book is a must-read for fans of intense, heart-wrenching narratives.

At its core, Catch the Sun follows Ella Sunbury and Max Manning, childhood best friends who were once inseparable. However, circumstances forced Ella to leave town abruptly, and a decade later, she returns for their senior year of high school. But time has changed them both—Ella now carries the weight of her brother’s notoriety, a felon on death row whose crime left an indelible stain on her reputation. Meanwhile, Max shoulders the responsibilities of caring for his disabled father while dealing with a distant twin brother. Despite the barriers life has placed between them, their bond rekindles, sparking a tender yet fragile romance.

This isn’t just a love story; it’s a book  that tackles complex themes such as familial trauma, societal judgment, and personal redemption. The book does not shy away from darker topics, including death and the lingering impact of crime on loved ones. Readers who are emotionally sensitive should prepare themselves for an intense journey—tissues may be necessary.

A particularly delightful touch is the infusion of Winnie the Pooh references, adding a nostalgic and heartwarming contrast to the heavier themes of the book. These moments of lightness provide a much-needed balance, making the characters feel even more real and relatable.

For those who enjoy stories that straddle the line between edgy teen fiction and new adult romance, Catch the Sun is a perfect choice. It’s a novel that not only tugs at the heartstrings but also lingers in the mind long after the final page.

Catch the Sun is a compelling, emotionally gripping read that will resonate deeply with fans of character-driven, poignant storytelling. Highly recommended for those who love a mix of romance, heartbreak, and healing.


Amazon: https://amzn.to/4aCWtAN