A review by andkellyreads
Amelia Unabridged by Ashley Schumacher

adventurous challenging dark emotional funny hopeful inspiring reflective sad slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75

Normally I take a little time after I finish a story before writing my review. I let myself marinate in what I’ve read, think about things that stuck out, or ruminate on what may or may not have worked well for me. 
 
I’m not doing that with Amelia Unabridged. I feel like, if I don’t get my feelings out and down into this review now, I might not ever be able to. 
 
Amelia Unabridged was pure YA magic. From the first page to the last, this book wrapped you up in a giant hug full of whimsical words and emotions, and keeps you safe from the outside world. I won’t go into too much detail, because this book needs to be approached without much influence, but just know that it hit me and it hit me hard. It was emotional, full of both highs and lows, and I sobbed my way through at least 6 chapters. Honestly, I don’t know how I retained what was on the page a few times because I was crying so hard I could barely see the words. But it was good. This book was so good. What an absolute joy it was to spend time inside Amelia’s head and experience everything with her; the grief, the joy, and the daydreams. She’ll make you smile, she’ll bring you to tears, and she’ll even make you angry a few times, but being with her as she learns how to live her own life after such a tragic event feels like a privilege and I don’t take a single moment for granted.  
 
I’m still getting over the fact that this book is a debut, honestly. Ashley Schumacher has such a way with words that I highlighted over half of the book so I could go back and revisit my favorite moments whenever I need some comfort. The thoughts and actions of the characters were written in such a way that they match their artistic endeavors, lyrically almost, and the scenes were so beautifully described you could visualize everything so vividly, from the scenery and surroundings down to the facial quirks and mannerisms. It was a beautiful story to read and it was easy (and a pleasure) to get swept away in its current. 

This book is a coming-of-age story, one that feels tangible and real, even with the somewhat cheesy, yet purely YA in style, romance that runs along Amelia’s adventure almost like a living thing. Amelia’s journey was full of whimsy and sadness, discovery and devastation, and I inhaled it all like a breath of fresh air. This book is perfect for lost souls and old souls alike, and I know it’s a book I won’t soon forget; its cast of characters memorable, and its journey nestled close to my heart. This book is any YA book’s dream, honestly, being a perfect blend of writing that hits the mark for both YA and adult readers, and I cannot wait to see what Schumacher brings us next. Amelia is a force to be reckoned with, and I know for Schumacher, this is only the beginning. 


***Many thanks to Negalley and Wednesday Books for the review copy***  
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