Review of Do You Remember Me?

Stephanie Elizabeth · Post by **Stephanie Elizabeth** » 27 Apr 2023, 10:18

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Do You Remember Me?" by Wm M Crouch.]

5 out of 5 stars

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The sun rises and falls with Carmen. At least that’s how introverted, eighteen-year-old Nick sees it. Carmen is beautiful and effervescent. Her outgoing personality charms the shy young man, and they begin dating. All Nick wants to do is make Carmen happy, but this begins to wear on Carmen’s patience as his behavior is increasingly clingy, and she feels smothered. Nick is distraught when the relationship inevitably ends and spirals into a deep depression. Will life ever be the same without Carmen by his side?

Do You Remember Me? by Wm M Crouch is an emotional coming-of-age story that follows Nick Hemmings as he experiences firsts—first love, first heartbreak, and becomes aware of the dark cloud that often follows him around as he navigates graduating high school and transitioning to college. The book has many endearing qualities, and one of them is the fairytale-type side story Nick creates in his head that is woven into the plot.

The author has done an exceptional job of illustrating the plight of a young broken heart. He also expresses how poor mental health can amplify heartbreak, creating a sense of hopelessness and despair. Nick suffered from depression, and he thought Carmen was the cure. Still, like any addiction, withdrawal can be unbearable when you stop cold turkey. The author deftly highlighted the emotional rollercoaster of living with depression without proper treatment. Nick’s dark thoughts and suicide attempts further buttressed this.

There was nothing to dislike about the book, and it was exceptionally edited. I have chosen to give Do You Remember Me? a rating of five out of five stars because of the author’s deft portrayal of life as a young adult in the 1980s when there wasn’t substantial information about depression or mental health. The protagonist’s character evolution was also praiseworthy.

I recommend the immersive book to adults who enjoy reading books that have taken place in the past. There are lots of 1980s nostalgia and mentions of popular bands at the time. Also, for readers who enjoy books that tackle mental health and overcoming adversity, this book is for you! However, those easily triggered by profane language and suicidal ideations should read with caution.

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Do You Remember Me?
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Paul Link · Post by **Paul Link** » 30 Apr 2023, 15:47

Thank you for your insightful and thoughtful review of "Do You Remember Me?" by Wm M Crouch. Your descriptions of the protagonist's journey through first love and heartbreak, as well as his struggles with depression, make me feel invested in the story and eager to read more. I appreciate your praise of the author's ability to portray mental health issues in a realistic and respectful way. Your recommendation to readers who enjoy books that tackle mental health and adversity is especially helpful. I will keep in mind the trigger warnings you mentioned, but I'm excited to give this immersive book a chance. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and motivating me to explore this coming-of-age story.

Husky03 · Post by **Husky03** » 30 Apr 2023, 21:21

Thank you so much for your detailed review! It sounds like a coming-of-age story that I will love to explore more and your insightful review definitely helped to sell the story!

Amy Luman · Post by **Amy Luman** » 01 May 2023, 11:29

I can see Nick’s point, as it is the depression that make him so clingy, but I can also see Carmen’s, as she doesn’t just want to be an obsession. It is so important that mental health be addressed, not just for the sake of those that are sick, but for the well-being of those that try to help.

Chris Agbara · Post by **Chris Agbara** » 15 May 2023, 11:37

I'm always fascinated by your reviews Steph! You captured the essence of the book and its themes very well. I like how you mentioned the fairytale-type side story and the character evolution of Nick. I’m intrigued by the 1980s setting and the mental health issues. I think this book would be a good read for me. Thanks for sharing your insights!

King Nyebuchi · Post by **King Nyebuchi** » 22 Jun 2023, 03:16

You've effectively conveyed the core essence of the book and its underlying themes. I appreciate your mention of the captivating fairytale-like subplot and the transformative journey of Nick's character. The 1980s backdrop and exploration of mental health matters have piqued my curiosity.