by Tiffany (link)
Genre romance, drama
Pairings Isaac/OFC, Taylor/OFC, Zac/OFC
Length 29 chapters
Status Completed (sequel to Every Word I Say)
As I explained in the review of the first story in this little series, Every Word I Say has two endings, one “happy” and one not so much. Even When I Stay follows the unhappy ending, where Taylor and Mercey haven’t ended up getting back together. I have my suspicions that they will by the end of this story, but it will take them longer and involve even more drama. Perhaps it will even answer some of the questions I felt were left hanging in the first story.
The story begins a few years into the future, with Taylor taking a business trip to Long Beach, Mercey’s new home. Naturally, he calls her and they attempt to catch up. One secret, which I didn’t suspect at all, is revealed not long after. One thing that doesn’t surprise me is that Isaac and Zac invented the business trip just to make Taylor and Mercey cross paths again.
The problem with a sequel, I think, is finding a way to make it fresh and not just rehashing everything that happened in the original story. This is my biggest issue with Even When I Stay. Mercey and Taylor just seem to go around in the same circles over and over, with no real reason why they can’t just make things work.
I suppose that’s my biggest problem with Even When I Stay. It’s just too much like its predecessor. It has good moments and a happy ending, but the short chapters, quick scene changes, and inexplicable emotional rollercoaster ride aren’t entirely pleasant to read.
Review by Bethany (website)