It Sounded Better in My Head is one of those books with such a strong narration. It’s one of my 12 Friends 12 Books recommendations. I was able to listen to the audio book while also flipping through my physical copy. Keep reading this book review to figure out what I thought about Marie’s recommendation!
Summary
When her parents announce their impending divorce, Natalie can’t understand why no one is fighting, or at least mildly upset. Then Zach and Lucy, her two best friends, hook up, leaving her feeling slightly miffed and decidedly awkward. She’d always imagined she would end up with Zach one day―in the version of her life that played out like a TV show, with just the right amount of banter, pining, and meaningful looks. Now everything has changed, and nothing is quite making sense. Until an unexpected romance comes along and shakes things up even further.
Review
(Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher. This has not impacted my review which is unbiased and honest.)
It Sounded Better in My Head is a book that oozes narration from every pore. I fell in love with the narration voice from the very beginning. Natalie’s character is so brilliantly conveyed through her turns of speech and existential crises. I was able to switch between the audiobook and my very old ARC and absolutely adored listening to the way Littrell brings the Australian accent and emotions to life. Natalie’s story occurs on the shock waves of her life imploding. Her parent’s announcement of a sudden divorce, paired with their impending college departure is causing Natalie to re-think everything.
Struggling with her own self-confidence and image, Natalie’s whirlwind and unexpected romance is yet another wrench in her expectations. It Sounded Better in My Head is a story about the ways we see ourselves. The disconnect between our fantasies and our realities. That gulf of space between how we envision our lives, and what ends up actually happening. It’s full of utterly relatable moments of panic, emotional angst, and the things we say to each other in silence.
It Sounded Better in My Head manages to be firmly rooted in family and friendship, while also detailing Natalie’s own self-confidence and romantic relationship exploits. About how we can be so terrified of these moments of change. The spaces of introspection and growing pains. It’s about crushes and kisses, trying to navigate friendships and first fights. The narrative voice was definitely my favorite element. And if you love stories about self-confidence and discovery, you should try this one out!
Find It Sounded Better in My Head on Goodreads, Amazon, Indiebound, Bookshop.org & The Book Depository.