Review: This Lullaby by Sarah Dessen

This Lullaby by Sarah Dessen 
Published: May 27th, 2002
Publisher: Puffin
Pages: 345
Challenge: 100+ Reading Challenge
Other: NA
Buy the book: Bookdepository


When it comes to relationships, Remy doesn't mess around. After all, she's learned all there is to know from her mother, who's currently working on husband number five. But there's something about Dexter that seems to defy all of Remy's rules. He certainly doesn't seem like Mr. Right. For some reason, however, Remy just can't seem to shake him. Could it be that Remy's starting to understand what those love songs are all about?

This Lullaby was the second Sarah Dessen book that I've read and I liked it even more than the first one (Keeping the Moon). The story tells us about Remy, who has certain rules when it comes to dating - all to make sure she doesn't end up like her mom (who is now marrying to husband number 5). All works fine, until she meets Dexter in her new step father's store. Dexter is in her face and even though he's not Remy's type, she doesn't seem to be able to shake him off.

Dexter is the character that makes this whole story worth while. Yes, we follow Remy, but Dexter stole my heart. He's messy, stubborn, talkative and won't give up when he's set his mind to something. He's a sloppy guy who plays in a band - exactly what Remy has on her list as rules for guys NOT to date. But Dexter doesn't back off when she tries to fend him off, and I'm really glad he didn't.

Remy is stubborn in her own way and can't stand it when things don't go according to plan. I love how we see how she's struggling not to give in when Dexter makes it clear he really likes her. She tries to stick to what she knows but is finding it difficult when Dexter makes it clear that he's still interested. He sees what she's afraid to admit and I love that ("You bought me cutlery? You love me!") and it made me snigger while reading it.

I don't think This Lullaby is all that original in terms of the storyline, but both Dessen's writing style, the incorporation of music and the humor of Dexter and his bandmates made this a wonderful read for me.

My overall rating:


Five golden stars for Remy and Dexter because honestly, Dexter captured my heart!