Jackie Khalilieh's You Started It is a delightful addition to the young adult romance genre, seamlessly blending the emotional depth of Better Than the Movies with the raw, heartfelt energy of Olivia Rodrigo’s Sour. This novel is a refreshing exploration of teenage love, heartbreak, and self-discovery, set against the vibrant backdrop of Toronto.

The story centers around seventeen-year-old Jamie Taher-Foster, who is navigating the tumultuous waters of her senior year. Jamie is a character that many readers will find relatable; she is a meticulous planner with a touch of anxiety, traits that are both her strength and her Achilles' heel. Her world is turned upside down when her long-term boyfriend, Ben Cameron, returns from a summer away with the devastating news that he wants to break up. This announcement shatters Jamie's carefully laid plans, including a special night she had envisioned for the Winter Formal.

In a bid to win Ben back, Jamie concocts a plan to fake date Axel Dahini, a TikTok dancer whose bicycle she accidentally damages. Axel is the antithesis of Jamie—carefree and spontaneous, yet surprisingly meticulous in his own way. Their shared Arab heritage adds a layer of cultural depth to their interactions, providing a nuanced portrayal of identity and belonging. Khalilieh does an excellent job of weaving cultural elements into the narrative without making them feel forced or stereotypical.

As Jamie and Axel spend more time together, their initial differences give way to a deeper understanding and appreciation of each other. Khalilieh masterfully develops their relationship, allowing it to unfold naturally and believably. The chemistry between Jamie and Axel is palpable, and their banter is both witty and endearing. Through their interactions, Jamie learns that life cannot always be planned and that sometimes, the most meaningful experiences come from unexpected places.

One of the standout themes in You Started It is the idea of personal growth and self-acceptance. Jamie's journey is not just about finding love but also about finding herself. Her character development is handled with care and authenticity, making her transformation from a list-driven teenager to a more open and self-assured young woman both compelling and inspiring. Khalilieh's portrayal of Jamie's anxiety is particularly noteworthy, as it is depicted with sensitivity and realism, offering readers a genuine insight into the challenges faced by those who live with anxiety.

In addition to its strong character development, the novel also excels in its exploration of friendship and family dynamics. Jamie's relationships with her friends and family are portrayed with depth and complexity, adding richness to the narrative. The supporting characters are well-developed, each contributing to Jamie's growth in meaningful ways. Khalilieh's ability to create a believable and engaging cast of characters is one of the novel's greatest strengths.

Comparatively, You Started It shares thematic similarities with other popular YA novels such as Jenny Han's To All the Boys I've Loved Before and Nicola Yoon's The Sun Is Also a Star. Like these stories, Khalilieh's novel explores themes of love, identity, and self-discovery, but it does so with a unique voice and perspective that sets it apart. The inclusion of cultural elements and the focus on mental health issues provide a fresh take on familiar themes, making You Started It a standout in the genre.

Overall, You Started It is a beautifully written and emotionally resonant novel that will appeal to fans of contemporary YA romance. Jackie Khalilieh has crafted a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with characters that linger in the reader's mind long after the final page is turned. Whether you're a fan of romance, coming-of-age stories, or simply looking for a book that captures the complexities of teenage life, You Started It is a must-read.

In conclusion, Khalilieh's novel is a testament to the power of storytelling to illuminate the human experience. It reminds us that life is unpredictable, love is complicated, and sometimes, the best moments are the ones we never planned for. You Started It is a celebration of growth, resilience, and the beauty of embracing the unknown.