It’s not every day you get to read a novel written by a student, let alone a student who attends the same university as you, but I guess there’s a first for everything.
“The Worst Kind of Love” by Jonah Evarts, freshman in humanities, was a refreshing means to escape reality during the so-called “dead week” and procrastinate studying for my finals even further.
The novel is Evarts’ second self-published novel, and differs greatly from his first book, “Semitara.”
In an interview prior to its publication, Evarts said “The Worst Kind of Love” was his best writing to date because of its personal focus. After reading the book, I can see why he was so excited for its release and I definitely felt that personal connection he talked about.
Related:
Freshman Jonah Evarts has self-published not one, but two novels in the past year
This book explores the life of Jaden, a freshman starting his first semester of college with some emotional baggage after his girlfriend calls things off.
On his first day of classes, Jaden meets Cole, a fellow freshman who is described as looking like he belongs in the centerfold of a fashion magazine.
The entirety of the novel explores the development of Jaden and Cole’s friendship, as well as Jaden’s love life and the connections he makes in his first year of college.
Evarts’ work is vivid and descriptive, instilling a feeling of nostalgia that took me back to my freshman year at K-State and the trials and tribulations I endured.
While the novel wasn’t anything groundbreaking or revolutionary, Evarts explored heartbreak, love, friendship, sexuality and mental health in a way that was both relatable and refreshing.
Evarts’ style of writing reminded me of one of my favorite childhood authors, Sarah Dessen, who specializes in young adult romance and coming-of-age stories. Like Dessen’s novels, “The Worst Kind of Love” is a sort of feel-good novel that explores self-improvement and coming of age.
The evocative descriptors used by Evarts reminded me somewhat of John Green, The New York Times bestselling author of “The Fault in Our Stars,” “Looking for Alaska” and other young adult novels. Green’s vivid and clever descriptions bring his stories to life, and Evarts’ writing did the same thing for me.
“The Worst Kind of Love” is well worth a read, especially if you’re looking for an easy read over the summer. This novel was a breeze and joy to read, and I look forward to reading any future works Evarts will release.
Emma Snyder is a junior in mass communications. The views and opinions expressed in this review are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Collegian. Please send comments to opinion@kstatecollegian.com.
