You will not be ready for Cloud Nine

I absolutely loved this funny & moving romance about a celestial guide in training who falls in love with a living boy. Read my 5-star review of this book by Sue H. Cunnigham

Out: Now

Evvy dies an accidental hero and ends up on Cloud Nine, the penthouse of the Afterlife. After more than a century of being 16, she is bored and decides to give being a celestial guide a try. She watches over her charges during the last hours of their life, helping them improve their Cloud Status if she can. She then meets Tom, a living boy who can see her and she falls for him. How can she make it work when she is dead, he is alive, and fraternizing with Beforelifers is forbidden?

The 1st person POV has a conspiratorial tone like we are in the know. Additionally, a dash of cynicism and more than that of snarkiness. The great sense of humor permeating this book is evident from the very first page.

The premise is great, plus the whimsical of this story's mythology is so refreshing. I love the appearance of personalities from different points of history but also from fiction. The author has succeeded in making us feel like this reality she's created exists, while the characters are relatable in their uniqueness. I adore the imagination pouring into the 'envelops you like a hug' narrative. The cleverness of the details is to be admired and colors it endearing. All I can say is that the author's take on the Afterlife is brilliant.

The impossibility of her situation with Tom is properly heart-squeezing and the mystery of why he can see her breathtakingly engaging. There is a plethora of obstacles though you will most certainly root for them. I loved how the story incorporated new elements and sprung the surprises on us. There are a lot of unanticipated, intriguing events going on. I still cannot believe how the story threads intertwined and led to where they did.

Bringing a lovely tenderness to this study of humanity, of our existence, it conveys so much meaning with its approachable language. It champions living life to the fullest, and being present in the here and now. What you do right now can change everything. Every moment must be savored.

One of the most fun and simultaneously moving supernatural YA romances that I have read, hilarious and poignant, with a deep respect and understanding of our mortality and hopefulness in its bittersweet beauty. Its ultimate message, love transcends all.