Chain Reaction by Simone Elkeles

my rating: 3.5/5 stars

SYNOPSIS: Luis Fuentes has always been sheltered from the gang violence that nearly destroyed his brothers’ lives. But that didn’t stop him from taking risks—whether he’s scaling a mountain in the Rockies or dreaming of a future as an astronaut, Luis can’t stop looking for the next thrill. 


Nikki Cruz lives her life by three rules—boys lie to get their way, don’t trust a boy who says “I love you,” and never date a boy from the south side of Fairfield. Her parents may be from Mexico, but as a doctor’s daughter, she has more in common with her north-side neighbors than the Latino Blood at her school. Then she meets Luis at Alex’s wedding, and suddenly, she’s tempted to break all her rules. 


Getting Nikki to take a chance on a southsider is Luis’s biggest challenge, until he finds himself targeted by Chuy Soto, the new head of the Latino Blood. When Chuy reveals a disturbing secret about Luis’s family, the youngest Fuentes finds himself questioning everything he’s ever believed to be true. Will his feelings for Nikki be enough to stop Luis from entering a dark and violent world and permanently living on the edge?

My Review: The Perfect Chemistry Series stole my heart with the first book, because, lets face it; Who doesn't fantasize about beautiful Mexican guys that end up falling in love with you while simultaneously stealing your heart away, even though the relationship was never meant to be?! *takes a deep breath of excitement*   I can tell you one thing, THIS GIRL DEFINITELY DOES. So, naturally, I had to read every book in this series. Chain Reaction, the third installment in the series, was a fairly good read. I didn't love it like I loved Perfect Chemistry, but it overall it was very entertaining. 

Unlike the other two Perfect Chemistry books where the bad boy fall for the good girl, this book was supposed to be vice versa. However, if I am not mistaken, Elkeles had to rewrite (for reasons unknown to my knowledge) and the story ended up being basically like the other two. Because of this, I've found out I can only enjoy the same story once or twice, but three times and, ehh....not so much. I hate to say it, but I got bored at some parts! Nikki and Luis's relationship also didn't seem as natural as the other two. There was no slow development of the relationship! It was kinda one of those, BAM! They're in love. Done. Kapeesh. One kiss and your heart is mine type of deal. A lot of times during this book (especially in the beginning of their relationship)  Luis or Nikki would be talking and say "Oh, Luis/Nikki, I just get you!" I'm sorry....but waa?! You two have known each other for what, like a month? You can't possibly get someone in that short amount of time. Not only that, but if you got each other so well, why were you saying 5 pages later: "I don't understand you! Why are you doing this to yourself?" *sigh* 


Anywhoo, I still enjoyed the book. Yes, little things here and there  bugged me, but I still really liked the story and would recommend it to those who want to finish off the beloved Perfect Chemistry series. Luis stole the spot as my favorite Fuentes brother, so maybe he will steal yours too :)