Have you ever been in a terrible, no-good situationship? Thought to yourself, “I can change him,” and stayed with someone who didn’t deserve you far longer than you should have? Do you enjoy the occasional (or frequent) Taylor Swift reference? If you nodded along to any of these, Call It What You Want is calling your name.
The Plot: Love, Heartache, and Everything In Between
Call It What You Want by Alissa Derogatis is a poignant coming-of-age story centered around Sloane Hart, an aspiring writer and hopeless romantic, and Ethan Brady, the epitome of “emotionally unavailable.”
Their story begins with a chance meeting on a college shuttle bus and quickly evolves into a deep connection as their friend groups intertwine. Set between August 2016 and September 2019, this tumultuous situationship unfolds over three years, capturing every emotional twist and turn.
Why It Resonates: A Relatable Journey
Told primarily from Sloane’s perspective, the book offers an intimate look into her internal struggles—her feelings for Ethan, her frustrations, and ultimately, her growth. Ethan’s point of view is sprinkled in sparingly, providing just enough insight into his actions to deepen the story.
The narrative leans heavily on classic romance tropes like forced proximity (hello, living in the same building!) and the agonizing almost-lover dynamic. Sloane dreams of a committed relationship, while Ethan’s emotional baggage keeps him at arm’s length.
I loved this book because, like Sloane, I’ve been there before. Haven’t we all? That’s what makes this story so powerful—it speaks to anyone who’s navigated the emotional rollercoaster of a one-sided situationship. It’s a validating and cathartic read for younger girls and women, offering the critical reminder: You can’t fix him.
Taylor Swift Fans, Take Note!
If you’re a Swiftie, this book is an extra treat. Packed with Taylor Swift references, including nods to All Too Well, it’s a love letter to anyone who’s ever felt the weight of those hauntingly relatable lyrics. The parallels between Swift’s music and Sloane’s story make this book hit even harder.
Call It What You Want Final Thoughts: A 4.5/5 Star Read
This book beautifully captures the highs and lows of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery. It’s a quick, engaging read that handles its themes with care. While I wish there had been more from Ethan’s perspective, the plot, pacing, and well-developed secondary characters more than make up for it.
Whether you’ve been in a similar situation or simply love an emotionally charged romance, Call It What You Want deserves a spot on your TBR.
