The Unwritten Rule by Elizabeth Scott

Book Summery:
Everyone knows the unwritten rule: You don't like your best friend's boyfriend. Sarah has had a crush on Ryan for years. He's easy to talk to, super smart, and totally gets her. Lately it even seems like he's paying extra attention to her. Everything would be perfect except for two things: Ryan is Brianna's boyfriend, and Brianna is Sarah's best friend. Sarah forces herself to avoid Ryan and tries to convince herself not to like him. She feels so guilty for wanting him, and the last thing she wants is to hurt her best friend. But when she's thrown together with Ryan one night, something happens. It's wonderful...and awful. Sarah is torn apart by guilt, but what she feels is nothing short of addiction, and she can't stop herself from wanting more... -goodreads.com

My Review:
I first heard of this book through a friend on LJ, who recommended The Unwritten Rule via goodreads (I am ALWAYS up for a good recommendation). One of the first things that caught my eye, was the book cover. It is beyond adorable! After reading a few reviews, I decided to purchase the book, and I am happy that I did! Two exceptional reviews were written by fellow bloggers The Crooked Shelf and Pure Imagination.

The Unwritten Rule is a touching and honest look into the lives of teenage girls and the hell that is high school. Perhaps not everyone can relate to the main character Sarah or the situation, but I surely can. I was very much like Sarah in high school, constantly getting used and looked over by people that I considered to be close friends. As I read this, I gritted my teeth as some of the actions and sayings Brianna used to make herself feel above Sarah. Obviously, this girl (Brianna) has some major jealously issues, not to mention a poor upbringing. It was easy for me to see as an outsider, but trust me, when you're in the situation, it's almost as if you're blinded by your trust and lack of confidence. This book made me realize how far I've come with my insecurity issues. Though I still struggle on a day-to-day basis, I would never again allow someone to treat me like Brianna treated Sarah. I enjoyed watching the evolution of Sarah's character. I was particularly happy with the ending. It took great strength to do what Sarah did. I like to believe she did what she did because that is the kind of person she is, forgiving and honest, rather than expecting a certain outcome. That's all I can really say, without giving anything away! ;)

Overall, I highly enjoyed this book. It's not necessarily a "feel good" book, but it's honest and it makes you think. What would you do? Not just in the main guy situation, but in various situations that occur throughout the book. I'll admit, it's a bit predictable. However, I most enjoyed reading how Sarah reacted to the various circumstances and people that arouse throughout the story. I will definitely be reading more of Elizabeth Scott's work in the near future. You can find her website here.

Favorite Quote:

"There are a million rules for being a girl. There are a million things you have to do to get through each day. High school has things that can trip you up, ruin you, people smile and say one thing and mean another, and you have to know all the rules, you have to know what you can and can't do." (p. 115)

Cover Art Commentary:
I absolutely adore this cover! Most obviously because it's purple (which is one of my all time favorite colors)! :P Also, I like the subtle touching of the feet, which I would imagine would be under a table or something. Definitely goes along well with the story line! :)

Overall Rating: