Introduction to the Author and Story
Rebecca Yarros has built a reputation for crafting deeply emotional, character-driven stories. Her latest bestseller, Variation, continues to showcase her remarkable ability to connect with readers on a profound level. The novel takes us on an unforgettable journey of love, loss, and self-discovery, with vivid descriptions that reveal the complexities of identity and evoke both the weight of the past and the fragile hope of the present. My introduction to Yarros’ writing came with her widely acclaimed Fourth Wing, followed quickly by Iron Flame, both of which I couldn’t put down.
Variation follows the story of two central characters, Hudson and Allie, each grappling with their own demons and desires. The plot revolves around the intertwining lives of a gifted ballerina and a talented rescue swimmer. While they search for their next steps in life, balancing family commitments and personal desires, their paths cross in a way that forces them to confront emotional scars. What begins as an unexpected connection evolves into a deep, life-altering bond, challenging both characters to open up, heal, and ultimately, find their true selves.
Character Development and Chemistry
One of Yarros’ greatest strengths lies in her ability to create multidimensional characters. Hudson and Allie are well-developed, each carrying emotional baggage and personal struggles that feel both authentic and relatable. The chemistry between them is palpable, but what makes their connection so compelling is the way their relationship serves as a catalyst for personal growth. It’s not just about falling in love—it’s about learning to trust, letting go of past pain, and building a future together, one step at a time.
That said, I liked Hudson far more than Allie, who frankly disappointed me in several ways. Hudson is far from perfect—he makes mistakes, but his character has a swoon-worthy vibe that made him an ideal love interest. Allie, on the other hand, came across as immature, selfish, and more passive than I would’ve liked. While she is strong and stubborn, especially when protecting herself against the possibility of a second broken heart from her childhood first love, she is a doormat for those around her to the point of making you want to scream.
Pacing and Structure
The novel’s pacing is steady for the most part, with emotional peaks and valleys that keep the reader engaged. The first several chapters moved quickly, drawing us into the lives of Allie and Hudson. But I think the novel would have greatly benefited from a ‘then-and-now’ time-line rather than the way it played out. The time jump from chapter one to two was a bit jarring, but adding in the ten-year jump at the beginning of chapter three on top of that took me out of the storyline. Having a more balanced beginning, where we explore more of the 17-year-old Allie and Hudson, would have made the connection for me as a reader, stronger.
In addition, the pacing slowed significantly in the middle, to the point where I found myself tempted to skip entire chapters that didn’t seem to move the storyline forward.
Another element that detracted from the pacing was the inclusion of the social media posts that appear throughout the novel, beginning in chapter three. These felt out of place, and I kept waiting for them to tie into the larger narrative in some meaningful way, but they ultimately felt underdeveloped and left me feeling unsatisfied.
Themes and Writing Style
One of the things I admire about Yarros is she doesn’t shy away from exploring the darker aspects of her characters’ lives. There are moments of deep sorrow and tension, but she balances these with moments of warmth and hope, creating a narrative that is both heart-wrenching and uplifting. The writing is lyrical, especially when it comes to the characters’ passions for their respective careers. These elements add a layer of richness to the story and strengthen the thematic exploration of expression and healing.
While the novel deals with heavy themes, such as grief and self-acceptance, it never feels hopelessly bleak. Instead, Yarros offers a nuanced portrayal of how love and vulnerability can lead to healing. The romance is tender but never melodramatic, and the story doesn’t rely on cliches but instead focuses on realistic, imperfect relationships.
Secondary Characters and Plot Elements
While Hudson and Allie’s relationship was a focus of emotional growth, the secondary characters, particularly Allie’s family, left me frustrated and disappointed. Some of these characters felt more one-dimensional, and their behavior seemed unrealistic and unchallenged throughout the novel. This affected my view of the novel as a whole and prevented me from rating it higher. Allie’s mother and youngest sister, for example, added nothing to the overall plot. The lack of anything positive or redeeming about them stood out. Early in chapter three, we are met with a stark yet very accurate depiction of the two:
Eva may have looked like the sweetest of us with her heart-shaped face, dainty features, and round eyes that could feign innocence with startling plausibility, but she was the quickest of the Rousseau sisters to strike when wounded ... Or just inconvenienced.
It was only fitting that she looked the most like our mother, seeing as Mom had a talent for drawing first blood.
Despite this being a clear setup for some sort of resolution or growth by the end of the story, neither Allie’s mother nor her sister changes. By the time it’s revealed that Allie’s mother is sick, I found myself exasperated rather than moved. I kind of wanted to throw the kindle across the room. The lack of consequence for their actions left a sour taste in my mouth.
Variation, while an enjoyable read, fell short for me in several areas. The way that Allie accepts all the horrid things that both her mom and sister have dished out without consequence or boundaries. How the characters act toward Juniper is as unrealistic as Juniper is disrespectful. Hudson’s and Allie’s immature conflict felt like it could have been worked out quickly in just one honest conversation. Certain plot points were well-executed, but others required an additional round of editing. Despite the shortcomings, I was still hooked and invested to the last page.
Final Thoughts and Rating
In Variation, Rebecca Yarros delivers a powerful, emotional story that resonates long after the final page. Fans of contemporary romance that delve deep into character development and emotional healing will find this book worthwhile, but some of the secondary character dynamics and pacing issues prevented me from rating it higher. I was hooked enough to stay invested until the end, but there were moments that left me wishing for a different narrative structure or stronger resolutions for the supporting characters.
If you’re looking for a moving and beautifully crafted story that explores the complexities of love and personal growth, Variation will leave you both heartbroken and hopeful, in the best way possible, even if some aspects of the novel didn’t quite hit the mark.
Have you read Variation? I’d love to hear your thoughts! Did you connect with Hudson and Allie, or did the pacing and secondary characters frustrate you too?
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