Common Sense Media Review
By Sage Moreaux
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Forced proximity and family drama in light teen romance.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
What's the Story?
In ROOM TO BREATHE, Indy's life has fallen apart, and that was before her teacher locked up her cellphone and left for the weekend. With an important deadline hanging over her head, Indy needs that phone and the notes saved on it. But then she finds herself locked in a bathroom with none other than her former best friend, Beau. With no way out and no way to call for help, will Indy and Beau be able to put the past behind them, or will they find that being stuck together makes their relationship go from bad to worse?
Is It Any Good?
Light yet dramatic, this trope-filled page-turner is an engaging, if quick, read. While Room to Breathe uses themes commonly found in romance novels, such as a friends-to-lovers relationship and forced proximity, author Kasie West manages to make the story feel fresh, likely due to the engaging characters and their sweet dynamic. The characters read like teenagers, making mistakes and letting their emotions take charge in challenging circumstances. And their ability to move past these flaws, actively talking through their problems, while somewhat unbelievable, does make for a nice story. Younger teens who enjoy contemporary romance and light drama will find this book a fun, engaging read.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the communication in Room to Breathe. Would Indy's circumstances be different if she talked openly with Beau and her father?
Indy's life falls apart because of family drama that she was unable to share with her friends. Have you ever had a secret cause problems in a relationship?
The story jumps back and forth in time. Do you think the novel would be as interesting if it had been told in order? Why do you think the author chose to jump around?
For fans of Kasie West's other novels, did you find this story to be more dramatic and angsty than the others? What did you enjoy about this in comparison?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Romance
- Topics : Friendship , School ( High School )
- Character Strengths : Communication , Empathy
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Delacorte Press
- Publication date : January 6, 2026
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 12 - 17
- Number of pages : 272
- Available on : Paperback, Audiobook (unabridged), Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : January 22, 2026
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