Review: Perfect Chemistry by Simone Elkeles

Author:Simone Elkeles

Publisher: Walker Books for Young Readers

Page Count:  360 pages, Paperback

Date Published: December 23nd 2008

 Goodreads Blurb:

A fresh, urban twist on the classic tale of star-crossed lovers.

When Brittany Ellis walks into chemistry class on the first day of senior year, she has no clue that her carefully created 'perfect' life is about to unravel before her eyes. She's forced to be lab partners with Alex Fuentes, a gang member from the other side of town, and he is about to threaten everything she's worked so hard for: her flawless reputation, her relationship with her boyfriend, and the secret that her home life is anything but perfect.

Alex is a bad boy and he knows it. So when he makes a bet with his friends to lure Brittany into his life, he thinks nothing of it. But soon Alex realizes Brittany is a real person with real problems, and suddenly the bet he made in arrogance turns into something much more.

In a passionate story about looking beneath the surface, Simone Elkeles breaks through the stereotypes and barriers that threaten to keep Brittany and Alex apart.

My Thoughts: Perfect Chemistry was one of those books that'll suck you into it's world and keep you there the entire read.

Funny, sexy, and dangerous, this book has the same qualities so many of us love to see in our male protagonists. Maybe that's why I loved it, maybe not. What I do know is Perfect Chemistry was incredible and I'm craving the next book like an elephant craves peanuts. The characters were so real and fresh, with both a classic, yet original storyline. The author put a lot of effort into studying the gang aspect and it felt real. I was actually scared for the characters.Some of it was frightening and heartracing, which made the read exciting. I couldn't put it down.

Yes, it was a bit cheesy, but I didn't mind. I was so hooked on the story and what was happening while reading and so never really noticed too much. The relationship between Brittany and Alex was great. I loved the fact that even when they hated each other, they still admitted there was something between them. I can't stand it when two characters have such an obvious attraction to each other and they refuse to even fathom it. This was different. I found their relationship addicting and it kept me reading all day. From their bickering to their kissing scenes, everything was there. The alternating chapters was done really well and I could feel their emotions through the pages as if I were the protagonists, living their lives. I love that feeling so much. The supporting characters were all so great as well. I knew them all,there weren't too many to keep track of. I loved Paco and Isa, Alex's friends,  plus Sierra (Brittany's best friend) reminded me of my best friend, so I immediately loved her. Even the teachers were great!

I feel like Elkeles did such a great job in keeping this book diverse, fast-paced and fun, but still serious. With both gun fights and some of the swooniest scenes I've read in a while, it was amazing. I loved how it ended, though that was probably the cheesiest part of the book. But hey, it made me smile and if you end up not liking this book, don't worry. The author concludes in a manner where if you'd like to keep reading, go ahead. If not, that's fine too. I will definitely be reading the next book, about Alex's younger brother. Elkeles' writing was formidable.

  Have a great day/night everyone!
-Kristy