this reminds me of The Fault in Our Stars, but perhaps an even more extreme version because it was so sad. I cried and definitely connected with it, especially because of the sensitivity of cancer mentioned throughout the book.

This upper YA read gave us everything through the main characters Ryleigh & Grayson and will leave a mark on your heart by the end. The feelings this book brought; the heartache, the laughs, the growth and struggle will make the reader feel like they are holding hands alongside the characters. Ryleigh was a fantastic character, that tried to shelter those she loved with morbid humor and love while struggling with everything. Grayson, sweet soft hearted boy who lashed out in the only way he knew how- when really he was just trying to protect his heart. This book will leave you reeling, but in the best way possible.

3.5⭐️

I love the premise of this book and I found it beautiful. However, I do feel like it was a little slow at times and I wish it was shorter.

I am not a YA romance reader so I don’t think I was the target audience for this book, and maybe that’s why I didn’t love it as much.

I did ended up shedding some tears while reading it, so the author managed to make it very touching.

Thank you NetGalley for the ARC.

It's been a long time since I've read a YA book that I found really enjoyable, but I loved this one. Ryleigh was such a dynamic character, she was just very hard not to love. And watching Grayson's character evolve was really beautiful too.

Wow what a story! I loved every second of this book and could not get over Ryleigh's strength throughout the storyline! Their relationship was the perfect mix of endearing, playful. and hopeful which, even as an adult, I enjoyed reading about. I think this has some powerful lessons that many YA readers could take away, and I plan on adding this one to my classroom shelf. Thanks for the ARC!

Thank you NetGalley and Publisher for this book!!

What a great book! I enjoyed this one a lot!!! I had a hard time putting it down. I enjoyed the chemistry between the characters. Great writing style!! This was a first by this author for me but will not be my last!

This was a beautifully done romance novel and thought it was so well done. I was invested in what was happening with the characters and their story. It has everything that I was looking for and enjoyed the overall feel of the story and characters. I was invested in what was happening to them, I enjoyed the way Gracie Graham wrote this and was glad I got to read this.

🌟 Rating: 4.5/5

This book completely captivated me from beginning to end. The story of Ryleigh and Grayson is the perfect mix of intense emotions and light, funny moments. The depth of the emotions throughout their journey felt raw and genuine.

I loved Ryleigh’s strength of character throughout the novel. She’s a shining example of resilience and courage in the face of challenges. As for Grayson, his growth was incredibly satisfying—he truly became the man Ryleigh deserved. Their chemistry was undeniable, and their playful, humorous banter added a delightful touch to the story.

This is a romance that delves deeply into human emotions while still offering moments of levity that make you smile. I highly recommend Things I Wish I Said to anyone who loves heartfelt and well-written love stories. Truly a gem!