“My face is mashed sideways against the trunk of a police cruiser when Kate dies for the third time.”

From Justin A. Reynolds’ Opposite of Always.

High school senior Jack King has led a life filled with lots of almosts and I-give-ups with the exception of his long-lasting friendship with his two best friends, Francisco (Franny) and Jillian. While visiting a college and working up the courage to tell Jillian (who is dating Franny) that he has a crush on her, he meets college freshman Kate. Over the next four months Jack and Kate get closer, each the perfect match to the other. However, things all change when a late night call informs him that Kate has died and a fall on the stairs sends Jack unexplainably back in time to the moment the two met. Jack now finds himself a time traveler of the same four-month period dealing with saving Kate’s life, his parents’ anniversary, prom, Franny’s estranged father being released from prison, Jillian’s parents separation, graduation, and all the things in between with Kate’s repeated death sending Jack back to the start. As Jack tries desperately to change fate and save Kate, he learns that every move he makes has unintended consequences; Jack will have to decide how far he is willing to go and what he is willing to loose if he wants to save Kate and stop the loop.

A fascinating novel from start to finish that instantly captivated the reader and refuses to let go. Reynolds manages to create a story that despite being a constant repeating of events, is different and unique enough to carry the story forward. Jack is a very believable lead character/narrator whose honesty and likability are impossible to deny. Opposite of Always is a unique and truly enjoyable love story that is not to be missed for teens and any reader that enjoys sweet, witty writing.