Deidre Isaac's Clichés & Curses is a delightful exploration of love, fate, and the self-imposed barriers we create to protect our hearts. At its core, the novel is a charming and insightful take on the classic romantic comedy trope, where the protagonist, Clara Healy, is determined to avoid the pitfalls of love that have seemingly cursed her family. Isaac crafts a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking, inviting readers to question the nature of love and the clichés that often accompany it.

Clara Healy, the protagonist, is a character that many readers will find relatable. Her determination to avoid the so-called "curse" that has plagued her family is both admirable and a little tragic. Clara's belief that her family is cursed adds a layer of depth to her character, as it reveals her vulnerability and fear of repeating the mistakes of those she loves. This fear is the driving force behind her resolve to steer clear of cliché love interests, a decision that is both rational and emotionally charged.

The novel's setting in a college environment provides a perfect backdrop for Clara's journey. The academic setting is a microcosm of society, filled with diverse characters and opportunities for growth and self-discovery. Isaac uses this setting to her advantage, creating a world that is both familiar and fresh. The introduction of the ASL class is a particularly clever choice, as it not only serves as the catalyst for Clara's relationship with Colton Reed but also highlights the importance of communication in relationships.

Colton Reed, the college star baseball player, is the embodiment of the cliché love interest that Clara is determined to avoid. However, Isaac skillfully subverts this trope by giving Colton depth and complexity. He is not just a one-dimensional character; instead, he is portrayed as a genuine and caring individual who challenges Clara's preconceived notions about love and relationships. The chemistry between Clara and Colton is palpable, and their interactions are filled with humor, tension, and genuine emotion.

One of the novel's strengths is its exploration of themes such as love, fate, and self-discovery. Isaac delves into the idea that love is not something that can be easily categorized or avoided. Clara's journey is a testament to the idea that love often finds us when we least expect it and that the clichés we try to avoid may hold more truth than we realize. The novel also touches on the theme of self-discovery, as Clara learns to confront her fears and embrace the possibility of love.

The use of American Sign Language (ASL) as a plot device is both innovative and meaningful. It serves as a metaphor for the barriers that Clara has erected around her heart and the importance of communication in overcoming these barriers. The scenes where Clara and Colton practice ASL together are some of the most poignant in the novel, as they highlight the power of non-verbal communication and the connection that can be forged through shared experiences.

Isaac's writing style is both engaging and accessible, making Clichés & Curses a pleasure to read. Her prose is filled with wit and charm, and she has a knack for creating dialogue that feels authentic and natural. The pacing of the novel is well-balanced, with a perfect blend of humor, romance, and introspection. Isaac's ability to weave these elements together creates a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

In comparison to other romantic comedies, Clichés & Curses stands out for its unique take on the genre. While it shares similarities with works by authors like Sophie Kinsella and Rainbow Rowell, Isaac's novel offers a fresh perspective on the classic romantic comedy trope. Her focus on the themes of communication and self-discovery adds depth to the story, making it more than just a lighthearted romance.

Overall, Clichés & Curses is a delightful and insightful novel that will resonate with readers who have ever questioned the nature of love and the clichés that often accompany it. Isaac's ability to create relatable characters and a compelling narrative makes this book a must-read for fans of romantic comedies. Clara's journey is one of growth and self-discovery, and her story serves as a reminder that love is not something to be feared but embraced.

In conclusion, Deidre Isaac has crafted a novel that is both entertaining and meaningful, offering readers a fresh take on the romantic comedy genre. Clichés & Curses is a testament to the power of love and the importance of communication, and it is sure to leave a lasting impression on those who read it. Whether you're a fan of romantic comedies or simply looking for a heartwarming story, this book is sure to capture your heart and imagination.