Rating:
What It’s About:
The Twelve Days of Dash & Lily picks up a year after the events of Dash and Lily’s Book of Dares. In that time, Lily’s grandfather suffered a heart attack and his road to recovery has left a strain on her usual cheery disposition. With twelve days left until Christmas, Lily’s older brother Langston swallows his pride and teams up with Dash* and company to help Lily rediscover the magic in the world around her.
Let’s Talk About It:
And to think, it was just the other day I felt bad that Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist didn’t get a sequel. After trudging through the follow up to Dash and Lily’s Book of Dares, I’m glad that Rachel and David skipped that idea, because The Twelve Days of Dash & Lily was a bit of a sophomore slump.
It’s hard not to notice what this book lacks. It’s missing the charm and wit for the first novel and reduces the Salinger-esque characters to husks of their former selves. And much like Lily, it’s devoid of the magic.
I know it’s an unfair comparison – the first book presents the meet-cute and the first kiss. What’s not to like about that? This one, however, says farewell to the honeymoon phase (in just a year, too!) and hello to seasonal depression. Yep, it seems that Dash and Lily have swapped places – and for good reason – but it doesn’t hit the mark.
And while Tara Sands and Ryan Gesell do marvelous job with their narration, the story itself made the audiobook seem three hours too long. Don’t get me wrong, I appreciate the moral of the story – communication is key in every relationship! – but the execution fell flat to my ears.
I’m left with a few questions after reading this book: Why does Langston disapprove of Dash? What’s the importance of Edgar in Dash and Lily’s relationship? Sofia and Boomer – really?
At least it answers that one question we’ve all had after a romcom – What happens after the big kiss?
Nothing good.
Until next time, keep on huntin’.
Postscript – I did like the little Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist easter egg the authors snuck in there. Did you catch it?
Chapin City Blues 