“Better Than the Movies” by Lynn Painter is a fun and light-hearted romance novel that will leave readers with a smile on their face. The novel follows Liz Buxbaum, a high school senior who is determined to have a perfect prom night with her long-time crush, Michael. Liz has always believed that her love story with Michael would play out like a classic romantic movie, but as the night progresses, things don’t go exactly as planned.
The novel is filled with all of the classic tropes of a romantic comedy, from the love triangle to the last-minute grand gesture. Painter skillfully weaves together these familiar elements to create a story that feels fresh and engaging. Her writing is witty and humorous, and she has a talent for crafting characters that feel relatable and authentic.
One of the standout elements of “Better Than the Movies” is the way that Painter explores the idea of romance in the media. Liz is a huge fan of romantic movies and has always believed that her own love story would play out like one of them. However, as she navigates the ups and downs of her own love life, she begins to question whether the romantic ideals she has been fed by the media are actually attainable.
The novel also delves into the theme of self-discovery. As Liz begins to realize that her expectations of love may be unrealistic, she also begins to learn more about herself and what she truly wants. Through her relationships with Michael and her best friend Wes, Liz learns to be more honest with herself and to embrace the things that make her unique.
Overall, “Better Than the Movies” is a delightful read that will leave readers feeling warm and fuzzy inside. Painter’s writing is engaging and humorous, and her exploration of romance and self-discovery feels authentic and relatable. It is a perfect choice for anyone looking for a light-hearted and fun romance novel that still has a lot of heart.
