Life is not a Game (Kara Verbeek)
Life is Not a Game
Kara Verbeek
It is a very sweet read. Definitely geared more toward the YA side. The book is very low spicy, does not get beyond kissing and when there is finally any intimacy mentioned it is not descriptive. Trigger Warning for mental health, social anxiety disorder, and panic attacks. Overall, I really enjoyed this book and getting to know Charlotte, our female main character (fmc). I read it through the Galatea app.
Reading Life is Not a Game offered me a refreshing look at how young adult literature can sensitively portray mental health challenges such as social anxiety disorder and panic attacks without overwhelming the reader. Charlotte's character felt real and relatable as she navigated these struggles while building relationships that emphasized emotional connection over physical intimacy. The choice to keep the story low on spicy content, focusing mainly on kissing, made it accessible for readers who prefer subtler romantic themes. The book also highlights the importance of understanding and compassion toward mental health issues, showing how panic attacks and anxiety can affect daily life. Through Charlotte’s journey, readers gain insight into coping mechanisms and the ups and downs of living with social anxiety while still finding moments of joy and connection. Using the Galatea app to read the novel added an interactive and convenient format that many modern readers appreciate. For those who enjoy YA fiction that thoughtfully addresses mental wellness and relationships without heavy explicit content, this book is a great pick. It reminds us that life isn't a game but a series of experiences to be approached with patience and kindness—both toward ourselves and others.
