Set in 2016, “Call It What You Want” by Alissa DeRogatis explores Sloane Hart’s journey through love, heartbreak, and self-discovery, resonating with anyone who’s experienced an almost-romance.
Overview of the Book
Call It What You Want by Alissa DeRogatis is a poignant and relatable exploration of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery. Set in 2016, the story follows Sloane Hart, a college senior navigating her final year with aspirations of a writing career in New York City. Her life takes a dramatic turn when she meets Ethan Brady, an enigmatic figure with a mysterious past. The novel delves into the complexities of “situationships” and the blurred lines between love and uncertainty. With its nostalgic tone and raw emotional depth, the book resonates with anyone who’s experienced the pain and confusion of almost-love. Its viral popularity on platforms like TikTok highlights its universal appeal to young adults seeking stories that mirror their own experiences.
Author Background: Alissa DeRogatis
Alissa DeRogatis is a debut author making waves with her heartfelt and relatable novel, Call It What You Want. A senior at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, she majors in broadcasting and English, with a passion for storytelling. Her journey into writing began with a desire to explore the complexities of human relationships, particularly the “almost-love” stories often overlooked in traditional romance narratives. Drawing from personal experiences and observations, DeRogatis crafted a story that resonates deeply with young adults. Her unique voice and honest portrayal of love’s uncertainties have garnered widespread acclaim, making her a promising new talent in contemporary fiction. The book’s viral success on platforms like TikTok further highlights her ability to connect with readers seeking authentic, emotional stories.
Key Themes and Genre
Call It What You Want delves into themes of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery, capturing the essence of “almost-love” stories. Set in 2016, it follows Sloane Hart’s journey through her senior year of college, blending nostalgia with coming-of-age elements. The novel falls under the romance and contemporary fiction genres, appealing to readers who enjoy emotional, relatable narratives. It explores the complexities of human connections, offering a poignant reflection on the bittersweet nature of relationships. The book’s introspective tone and realistic portrayal of love’s uncertainties make it a standout in modern romance literature, resonating with those who’ve experienced the pain and beauty of unrequited emotions.
The Plot and Characters
Sloane Hart navigates her senior year of college, balancing friendships and ambitions, until her life intertwines with the enigmatic Ethan Brady, altering her future and heart.
Main Character: Sloane Hart’s Journey
Sloane Hart, a hopeful romantic, is navigating her senior year of college, aiming for a writing career in New York City. Her world is shaken when she meets Ethan Brady, a mysterious figure with a hidden past. Sloane’s journey explores her growth as she confronts the complexities of love and relationships, all while dealing with the emotional scars from her parents’ divorce. Her story is a poignant reflection on the fragility and intensity of human connections, making her a relatable and compelling protagonist for readers who have experienced the uncertainty of almost-love.
Love Interest: Ethan Brady’s Role
Ethan Brady is the enigmatic love interest whose presence deeply impacts Sloane Hart’s life. With a past he keeps hidden, Ethan adds layers of complexity to Sloane’s journey, challenging her views on love and relationships. His mysterious nature creates an undeniable intensity in their connection, making him a pivotal figure in her story. Ethan’s role is central to exploring the themes of almost-love and the uncertainty it brings, leaving Sloane and readers questioning the true nature of their bond. His character serves as a catalyst for Sloane’s growth, forcing her to confront the realities of love and heartbreak in her pursuit of self-discovery.
Supporting Characters and Their Significance
The supporting characters in “Call It What You Want” play pivotal roles in shaping Sloane Hart’s journey. Her circle of friends provides emotional support and shared experiences, grounding her story in relatable college-life dynamics. Sloane’s parents, particularly her father, add depth to her backstory, influencing her views on love and commitment. Additionally, characters like Rob, dealing with personal crises, highlight the complexity of human relationships. These figures not only enrich the narrative but also serve as mirrors to Sloane’s internal struggles, offering moments of tension, understanding, and growth. Their presence underscores the interconnectedness of lives and the lessons learned from those around her.
Themes and Style
Call It What You Want delves into themes of love, relationships, and identity, blending nostalgia with a poignant exploration of human connections and emotions.
Exploration of Love and Relationships
Call It What You Want masterfully explores the complexities of love and relationships through Sloane Hart’s journey. The book delves into the ambiguity of modern romance, where labels are absent but emotions run deep. Sloane, a hopeful romantic scarred by her parents’ divorce, navigates a tangled relationship with Ethan Brady, a mysterious figure with a guarded past. Their connection is intense yet undefined, reflecting the uncertainty of almost-love stories. The novel captures the pain and vulnerability of such dynamics, resonating with readers who’ve experienced similar situations. It questions whether love can exist without a title, blending bittersweet nostalgia with a raw portrayal of human connection.
Nostalgia and Coming-of-Age Elements
Call It What You Want is deeply intertwined with nostalgia, capturing the essence of 2016’s cultural landscape, from The Chainsmokers’ music to the optimism of post-grad life. Sloane Hart’s journey is a quintessential coming-of-age story, blending the excitement of newfound independence with the pain of shattered dreams. The novel reflects on the bittersweet moments of transitioning from college to adulthood, where identity and purpose are questioned. Sloane’s experiences—her heartbreak, her ambition, and her struggle to define love—resonate with readers who’ve navigated similar crossroads. The book’s nostalgic tone reminds us of the fragility and beauty of youth, offering a relatable and poignant portrayal of growing up and letting go.
Availability and PDF Version
Call It What You Want is available as a PDF for download through platforms like Z-Library and other online repositories, offering easy access to Alissa DeRogatis’ debut novel.
How to Download the PDF
To download the PDF of Call It What You Want, visit platforms like Z-Library or other online repositories. Search for the title, select the PDF format, and follow the prompts to download. Ensure you’re using a trusted site to avoid malware. The process is straightforward, allowing readers to access Alissa DeRogatis’ novel conveniently. This method provides easy access to the book for those who prefer digital reading.
Platforms for Reading the Book
Call It What You Want is accessible across various platforms, ensuring readers can enjoy it in their preferred format. Z-Library is a popular choice, offering free downloads in PDF, Word Doc, or text formats. Additionally, the book can be read online directly through the platform; Other online repositories provide similar options, catering to different reader preferences. Whether you opt for a digital copy or prefer reading on your device, these platforms make the book easily accessible, allowing you to dive into Sloane Hart’s journey seamlessly.
Reception and Reviews
Call It What You Want has become a TikTok sensation, praised for its relatable exploration of love and heartbreak. Readers resonate with its raw, emotional storytelling.
Reader Responses and Popularity
Call It What You Want has garnered significant attention, especially on platforms like TikTok, where readers resonate with its relatable themes of unrequited love and self-discovery. Many have praised the book for its ability to capture the complexity of modern relationships, making it a favorite among younger audiences. The novel’s viral success highlights its emotional depth, with readers often sharing personal connections to Sloane’s journey. Its popularity continues to grow as more readers embrace its honest portrayal of almost-love stories, making it a must-read for those navigating similar experiences.
Critical Analysis and Reviews
Call It What You Want has received mixed reviews from critics, with many praising its raw portrayal of modern relationships and emotional depth. Reviewers highlight Alissa DeRogatis’s ability to capture the ambiguity of love, resonating with readers who’ve experienced similar situations. The book’s nostalgic tone and relatable characters, particularly Sloane Hart, have been commended for their authenticity. However, some critics note that the pacing can feel uneven, and certain plot points lack resolution. Despite this, the novel’s honest exploration of unrequited love and self-discovery has earned it a loyal fan base, especially among younger readers drawn to its contemporary themes and heartfelt storytelling.
Call It What You Want leaves readers with a heartfelt reflection on love’s ambiguity, offering a poignant reminder of the lingering emotions that define unrequited connections and personal growth.
Final Thoughts on the Book’s Impact
Call It What You Want leaves a lasting impression by capturing the essence of millennial dating and the ambiguity of modern relationships. Its relatable portrayal of “almost-love” stories resonates deeply, offering solace to those who’ve experienced the pain of undefined connections. The book’s nostalgic charm and raw emotional depth make it a standout in contemporary romance literature. By exploring themes of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery, Alissa DeRogatis has created a story that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable. Its viral success on platforms like TikTok underscores its ability to connect with readers, making it a must-read for anyone navigating the complexities of love in the modern world.