Slammed - A Heartfelt Beginning
The series commences with Slammed, the opening book that introduces us to Lake, a high school senior grappling with the sudden loss of her parents. She finds herself in a new city, living with her brother, and navigating the challenges of her senior year. However, it’s her charismatic and talented neighbour, Will, who steals the spotlight. Their encounter leads to a date at a poetry slam and sets the stage for a love story that will both enchant and challenge you.
In Slammed, we witness the emotional rollercoaster of Lake and Will’s relationship as they grapple with their feelings, even when faced with obstacles that seem insurmountable. The slam poetry performances, rich in emotion and truth, add an artistic layer to the story. They allow characters to express their deepest feelings and create a unique and powerful connection between Lake and Will. The twists and turns in their love story will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Critique 1: Predictable Plot Points
While the Slammed series is emotionally engaging, some readers might find that certain plot developments are a bit predictable. The love story between Lake and Will follows some familiar romance novel tropes, which may not be surprising for those well-versed in the genre. This is why, although it is a critique, I didn’t mind it. When reading romance, you expect certain things to occur to ensure the reader receives what the genre demands and what they want when selecting a romance novel.
Point of Retreat - Love Tested
The second instalment, Point of Retreat, further tests Lake and Will’s love. As they strive to build a life together while facing personal and external challenges, you’ll find yourself deeply invested in their journey. Colleen Hoover doesn’t shy away from dealing with real-life issues, and you’ll experience every joy and heartbreak as if they were your own.
Lake’s character development takes centre stage in this book as she matures and learns to navigate the complexities of life and relationships. The themes of trust, forgiveness, and sacrifice are explored with a raw and unfiltered intensity that leaves you breathless.
Critique 2: Young Adult Themes
The series primarily focuses on the experiences of high schoolers, so it may resonate less strongly with readers who are looking for more mature or diverse themes in their romance novels. The youthful perspective might limit its appeal to a specific age group. Just like before, I didn’t mind this as I saw it was marketed to a YA audience.
This Girl - A Beautiful Conclusion
The series culminates in “This Girl,” which offers a unique perspective. In this book, we step into Will’s shoes as he revisits the past, revealing his thoughts, emotions, and secrets. It’s a beautiful way to conclude the series, providing deeper insights into Will’s character and their enduring love story.
While the book is more of a retrospective, it ties up loose ends, making the entire series feel complete. Colleen Hoover’s narrative craft shines through as she creates a deeply satisfying ending.
Critique 3: Lack of Diverse Perspectives
The Slammed series primarily focuses on Lake and Will, which means that some readers might have preferred more exploration of supporting characters’ perspectives and backgrounds. A broader view of the secondary characters could have added depth to the story.
Supporting Characters
The supporting characters in this series are phenomenal! Julia, Layken’s mother, is a beautiful part of the story. She drives the plot forward in a major way, and one of the craziest twists in all three books involves her. Don’t worry – I won’t spoil it.
My favourites are Gavin and Eddie, a couple who support Layken and Will unwaveringly. Eddie is most definitely an extrovert, which couples well when she and Layken are together. Meanwhile, Gavin is quiet; we never know much about him, yet he waits on the sidelines, observing everything and missing nothing. When we reach the final book in the trilogy and see all that has happened from Will’s perspective, we can also note how Gavin’s council is appreciated, and he knows more than we, as readers, thought he did. I liked how Hoover included this, and it makes it easier to see how Gavin and Will become best friends by choice rather than forced by their respective partners.
Then there is Kel and Caulder, the younger brothers of Layken and Will. The individual personalities of these two are amusing, but together, I couldn’t help but smile while reading. Their dynamic together is an excellent icebreaker for some tense moments within the Slammed trilogy, and with lots of the turmoil, it made me happy knowing that these characters had one another to rely on.
Poetry as a Theme
One of the standout aspects of the Slammed series is its unique incorporation of poetry. The slam poetry scenes aren’t just engaging; they offer a creative and unconventional way of expressing emotions. The poetry adds a layer of depth to the story, making it all the more poignant.
As a word of caution, if you’re not particularly interested in poetry, some of these sections might feel like a detour from the main narrative. However, they’re a fundamental part of the story, emphasising the characters’ emotions and experiences.
Critique 4: Poetry as a Central Element
While the incorporation of slam poetry is a unique and creative aspect of the series, some readers may not have a strong interest in poetry. The narrative occasionally delves deeply into this art form, which could deter readers who don’t have a particular affinity for it. I do, though!
Relatable Characters
The Rollercoaster of Emotions
Conclusion
The Slammed series by Colleen Hoover is a literary journey you won’t forget, filled with love, loss, and the magic of slam poetry. It’s a story that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page. While the series has its strengths and emotional depth, it’s essential to acknowledge areas where it may not meet the preferences of all readers. It’s a heartfelt and poignant series that offers both moments of joy and critique, making it a worthwhile read for fans of contemporary romance!
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