Malynda Schlegel's Our Hearts Knew Better is a poignant exploration of youth, love, and the inevitable complexities that accompany the transition into adulthood. This novel is a compelling blend of romance and self-discovery, set against the backdrop of a small town that holds both the promise of freedom and the weight of past decisions.

The story begins with our protagonist, a seventeen-year-old girl, who is grappling with the constraints imposed by her controlling father. Her decision to sneak out of the house marks the beginning of a transformative summer, one that is filled with both the exhilaration of newfound freedom and the bittersweet taste of first love. The narrative is driven by her encounters with two boys, Levi and Adam, whose friendship and contrasting personalities add depth to the story.

Schlegel skillfully crafts the characters of Levi and Adam, making them more than just love interests. Levi is enigmatic and unpredictable, embodying the allure of the unknown, while Adam is steady and reliable, offering a sense of security. The protagonist's interactions with these two boys are not just about romantic entanglements but also about understanding herself and her desires. The author does an excellent job of portraying the internal conflict that arises when the heart and mind are at odds.

One of the novel's strengths lies in its exploration of the theme of choice and consequence. The protagonist's journey is marked by decisions that have far-reaching impacts, not just on her life but on the lives of those around her. Schlegel captures the essence of youth—the impulsiveness, the yearning for independence, and the inevitable mistakes that shape one's identity. The narrative is imbued with a sense of nostalgia, as the protagonist reflects on that pivotal summer and the events that unfolded.

The book's structure, which alternates between the past and the present, allows readers to piece together the mystery of what truly happened that summer. This dual timeline adds an element of suspense, keeping readers engaged as they uncover the truth alongside the protagonist. The tragedy that reunites the characters six years later serves as a catalyst for resolution and growth, highlighting the enduring impact of past choices.

Schlegel's writing is evocative, capturing the essence of small-town life and the emotions of her characters with precision. The setting of Rosalee Bay is vividly depicted, becoming almost a character in its own right. The town is a place of both refuge and confinement, reflecting the protagonist's internal struggle between the desire for freedom and the pull of familiarity.

In terms of character development, Schlegel excels in portraying the protagonist's evolution from a sheltered teenager to a woman who confronts her past and seeks closure. Her relationship with Adam, which has seen better days, is portrayed with authenticity, capturing the complexities of love and friendship. The unresolved tension with Levi adds an additional layer of depth, as the protagonist grapples with feelings that have lingered for years.

Comparatively, Our Hearts Knew Better shares thematic similarities with other coming-of-age novels such as Sarah Dessen's The Truth About Forever and Morgan Matson's Second Chance Summer. Like Dessen and Matson, Schlegel delves into the intricacies of family dynamics, personal growth, and the bittersweet nature of first love. However, Schlegel's unique narrative voice and the mystery element set her work apart, offering readers a fresh perspective on familiar themes.

Overall, Our Hearts Knew Better is a beautifully written novel that resonates with anyone who has ever experienced the tumultuous journey of growing up. Schlegel's ability to weave together themes of love, loss, and self-discovery results in a story that is both heartwarming and heartbreaking. The novel's emotional depth and relatable characters make it a compelling read for fans of contemporary romance and coming-of-age stories.

In conclusion, Malynda Schlegel has crafted a narrative that captures the essence of youth and the enduring impact of the choices we make. Our Hearts Knew Better is a testament to the power of love and the resilience of the human spirit, leaving readers with a sense of hope and the reminder that sometimes, the heart knows best.