Sophie Gonzales' Only Mostly Devastated is a delightful and heartfelt exploration of teenage love, identity, and the complexities of navigating relationships in the modern world. At its core, the novel is a contemporary retelling of the classic tale of summer love, reminiscent of Grease, but with a fresh, queer twist that makes it both relevant and engaging for today's readers.

The story follows Ollie, a charming and openly gay teenager who experiences a whirlwind summer romance with Will Tavares. Will is everything Ollie could hope for in a summer fling—fun, affectionate, and kind. However, the end of summer brings an unexpected halt to their budding romance as Will suddenly stops communicating with Ollie. This abrupt end leaves Ollie heartbroken and longing for closure.

Gonzales skillfully captures the emotional turmoil that accompanies young love, particularly when it is cut short. The narrative takes a compelling turn when Ollie, due to a family emergency, finds himself uprooted and enrolled in a new school across the country—the very same school that Will attends. This twist sets the stage for a complex and emotionally charged reunion between the two characters.

One of the novel's strengths lies in its nuanced portrayal of Ollie's internal struggle. Ollie is a well-rounded character, and his journey is both relatable and poignant. He grapples with the pain of unrequited love and the challenge of reconciling his feelings for Will with the reality of who Will is at school—a closeted class clown who seems to oscillate between affection and indifference. Gonzales does an excellent job of depicting Ollie's vulnerability and resilience, making him a character readers can root for.

Will, on the other hand, is a more complex character. His duality—being openly affectionate during the summer and then retreating into a closeted persona at school—adds depth to the story. Gonzales explores the pressures and fears that come with being a closeted teenager, particularly in a high school setting where conformity often trumps individuality. Will's internal conflict is palpable, and his journey toward self-acceptance is both heart-wrenching and inspiring.

The dynamic between Ollie and Will is central to the novel, and Gonzales handles it with sensitivity and authenticity. Their interactions are filled with tension, humor, and genuine emotion, capturing the essence of teenage relationships. The push and pull between them is realistic and relatable, reflecting the complexities of young love and the challenges of being true to oneself.

Beyond the romance, Only Mostly Devastated delves into themes of identity, acceptance, and the importance of friendship. Ollie's friendships with his new classmates add depth to the narrative and provide a supportive backdrop for his journey. The diverse cast of characters, each with their own struggles and triumphs, enriches the story and highlights the importance of community and understanding.

Gonzales' writing is both witty and heartfelt, striking a balance between humor and emotion. Her dialogue is sharp and engaging, capturing the voice of contemporary teenagers with authenticity. The pacing of the novel is well-executed, keeping readers engaged from start to finish.

In comparison to other contemporary YA novels, Only Mostly Devastated stands out for its refreshing take on the classic summer romance trope. It shares thematic similarities with Becky Albertalli's Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda and Adam Silvera's They Both Die at the End, both of which explore themes of identity and love in the context of LGBTQ+ experiences. However, Gonzales' novel carves its own niche with its unique blend of humor, heart, and authenticity.

Overall, Only Mostly Devastated is a compelling and emotionally resonant novel that will appeal to readers of all ages. It is a testament to the power of love, friendship, and self-discovery, and it offers a hopeful message about the importance of being true to oneself. Sophie Gonzales has crafted a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, making it a must-read for fans of contemporary YA fiction.

In conclusion, Only Mostly Devastated is a beautifully written and emotionally charged novel that captures the essence of teenage love and the journey toward self-acceptance. With its relatable characters, engaging plot, and poignant themes, it is a book that will resonate with readers long after they turn the final page.