“In new situations, all the trickiest rules are the ones nobody bothers to explain to you.”
Part One: Freshman Year
Cath Avery, a shy and introverted college freshman, struggles to adjust to university life. She is an avid fanfiction writer, famous in the online world for her Simon Snow stories. Her twin sister, Wren, decides they should live separately, leaving Cath feeling abandoned. Cath’s roommate, Reagan, is blunt and intimidating, but her boyfriend, Levi, is friendly and outgoing, often visiting their dorm.
Part Two: Writing and Relationships
Cath’s fiction-writing professor challenges her to write original work instead of fanfiction, making her doubt her talent. Meanwhile, her father’s mental health becomes a concern, and Wren’s partying spirals out of control. Levi grows closer to Cath, helping her navigate social situations, though she remains hesitant about romance.
Part Three: Family and Crisis
When their father has a breakdown, Cath and Wren must reconcile to help him. Cath also faces academic pressure and a falling-out with her writing partner. Levi confesses his feelings, but Cath, overwhelmed, pushes him away. She begins to realize that relying on others isn’t weakness.
Part Four: Resolution and Growth
Cath reconnects with Levi, admitting her feelings. She submits an original story for her class, gaining confidence in her writing. Wren sobers up, and their father stabilizes. Cath learns to balance fandom, real life, and relationships, ending her freshman year with newfound independence.
Key Ideas
- Coming-of-age and self-discovery in college.
- The blurred line between fanfiction and original writing.
- Mental health and family responsibility.
- Navigating first love and social anxiety.
- The power of fandom as both escape and community.
Who should read this book?
- Fans of contemporary YA and new adult fiction.
- Readers who enjoy stories about fandom and creative writing.
- Those interested in themes of family, mental health, and personal growth.