Carry On by Rainbow Rowell (2015)

Simon Snow just wants the world to give him a break. Going into his last year at Watford School of Magicks, he has the infamous Humdrum tracking his every move, trying to destroy him, because he just happens to be the Chosen One. On top of that, his girlfriend breaks up with him, who is his only connection to a family life, and his roommate Baz, who is literally a vampire and wants to kill him. However, Baz, completely out of character, switches his views of Simon, and enlists him on a mission to discover the circumstances behind the death of his mother, which definitely is one that interests Simon. At the peak of her career as headmaster of Watford School of Magicks, Baz’s mother was murdered by a group of vampires that also turned Baz into the creature he is now. Except these weren’t your average vampires, but vampires sent by the Humdrum. So, while solving the case might bring Baz some solace, it could help Simon figure out what the Humdrum wants to do with the school, and specifically him. But as they try to figure out that issue, a completely new one comes up: Is Baz and Simon’s hate for each other turning into the opposite?

If you think this basically mocks up Harry Potter, than you’re totally right, and it was totally intended to be that way. That being said, Carry On is basically every fangirl’s or fanboy’s dream of what Harry Potter  should’ve been (not that Harry Potter could get any more perfect than it already is). Nevertheless, while this story does sound like it’s main focus is the magical world, it really isn’t. In fact, this is pretty much a contemporary novel, with a little hint of magic. Simon and Baz’s romance completely take of the spotlight, even though it’s a little stereotypical. So, while this novel spans over a year of time, there isn’t necessarily a big plot besides the romance.The romance isn’t completely overwhelming, though. It was to the point where the romance was nice, but Rainbow Rowell still allowed the characters to be individual.  That being said, there is a lot of character growth, specifically concerning Simon. At the beginning, he’s extremely cocky and throws the biggest pity party for himself, but as he branches out into Baz’s problems, he sees both Baz and his own problems is a new light.

Don’t let the romance cloud your judgement (unless that’s your thing), this story is golden.

4 Stars