Exploring Transformation and Growth in The Year We Became More by Amber Irene

Change shapes us in unexpected ways. Amber Irene’s The Year We Became More captures this truth through a compelling story of personal growth and transformation. This blog post explores the book’s themes, shares insights from my reading experience, and offers questions and activities to deepen your connection with the story.

Book Information

• Title: The Year We Became More

• Author: Amber Irene

• Publisher: Franklin Publishers

• Publication Date: February 14, 2026

• Genre: Contemporary Fiction, Romance

• Age Category: Young Adult/New Adult, 16+

• Formats Available: ebook, paperback, hardcover

• Format: Novel

• Format Read in: Netgalley E-ARC

• Representation: Grief, Loss, Cleft Lip, Mental Health, Addiction, Trauma, Cultural Diversity

• Reading Challenges: Debut Novel, Read Around the World - USA - New York - Author

I appreciate Netgalley, the author, and the publisher for providing an E-ARC of the book for review. All views expressed are my own and are based on my personal experience with the book.

Book Synopsis

Senior year is often hailed as the pinnacle of high school experiences, a time filled with unforgettable moments and lifelong memories. But for Addie, it feels more like a continuation of a life spent in the shadows. Having mastered the art of blending into the background, she navigates her final year with a careful balance of brilliance and caution, determined to keep her world small and safe from the whispers of her past.

Meanwhile, Jackson arrives at the new school with his own burdens. Each step he takes is a desperate attempt to escape the ghosts of his past and the mistakes that continue to haunt him. A fresh start is what he seeks, but he never expects to truly connect with anyone—especially not with someone like Addie.

When an unexpected night draws them together, their worlds collide in a way neither of them could have anticipated. As they begin to see each other for who they truly are, the walls they’ve built around their hearts start to crumble. Old wounds resurface, and new feelings ignite, leading Addie and Jackson to confront their fears and vulnerabilities.

As they navigate the complexities of their senior year, they find themselves standing at a crossroads—one path could lead to healing and redemption, while the other threatens to plunge them back into the darkness they’ve fought so hard to escape. Will they find the strength to embrace the possibility of love and connection, or will their pasts prove too heavy to bear?

Join Addie and Jackson on a poignant journey of self-discovery, resilience, and the transformative power of unexpected relationships in this gripping tale of hope and healing.

My Reading Log, Rating, and Review

Reading Log

Day 1: February 19, 2026 - up to page 35 (35 pages read)

Day 2: February 20, 2026 - up to page 104 (69 pages read)

Day 3: February 21, 2026 - up to page 169 (65 pages read)

Day 4: February 23, 2026 - up to page 201 (32 pages read)

Day 5: February 24, 2026 - up to page 232 (31 pages read)

• Notable Quotes:

  • "She's the only clean thing I've touched in months, and I'm poison, She deserves to stay untouched by it" - Jax

  • "Him, distant, untouchable. Me, small and invisible." - Addie

  • "Maybe if you loved yourself more, people wouldn't get away with calling you ugly" - Zahara

  • "Because this year wasn't about surviving. It was about becoming."

  • "I promised myself I'd stop letting pain define me. That i'd start believing i was enough" - Addie, "You were always enough" - Jax

Review

 My Rating ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (5 Stars)

The characters in this novel are incredibly well-developed, providing a depth that resonates with readers on multiple levels. They are not only funny at times but also realistic and beautifully flawed, which allows readers to connect, relate, and grow alongside them throughout their journeys. Addie, the main female protagonist, is a strikingly beautiful character who embodies a myriad of admirable traits. She is funny, hardworking, kind, and incredibly smart, shining brightly with a heart of gold. Readers find themselves relating to her struggles and triumphs, as they witness her navigate through her scars and insecurities. Her undying kindness and love for her friends serve as a beacon of hope and warmth, making her a character that readers can genuinely connect with and grow alongside.

Jackson, another pivotal character in the story, is wonderfully flawed as well. His life is marked by loss and grief, and he grapples with mental health challenges that many readers may find familiar. Through Jackson's experiences, readers are given the opportunity to learn and connect with his humor and kindness. His struggles and growth are portrayed with sincerity, and his unwavering support for his friends adds layers to his character that are both relatable and inspiring.

The side characters, who can be seen as the friends we all need in our lives, contribute significantly to the narrative. Zahara is the outspoken and outgoing free spirit who tells it like it is—not out of rudeness, but from a place of genuine care, knowing that sometimes the truth can be difficult to hear. Yet, she is always there to support her friends through thick and thin. Yoona, on the other hand, is the quiet and reserved friend whose artistic nature offers a unique perspective on the world. Her kindness and intelligence shine through in subtle ways, making her an invaluable part of the group. Matthew, the tough yet quiet guy, brings humor and moments of camaraderie, grounding the group in his own understated way. Lastly, Liam is the outgoing and serious character whose determination surprises everyone. He embodies the spirit of fun, whether he’s dressing up in a onesie for a sleepover or offering his unwavering support during challenging times. Although they are side characters, their contributions are essential to the story, making them main characters in their own right. Their friendships with Addie and Jackson add richness to the narrative, highlighting the importance of connection and support.

The settings throughout the novel are beautifully described, vivid yet not overly elaborate, creating an immersive experience that helps set the tone and mood of the story. Each location is crafted with care, allowing readers to feel as though they are stepping into the world alongside the characters. The writing itself is a blend of beauty and poetry, deeply personal and emotional at times. This style draws readers in, making them feel as if they are experiencing the characters' emotions and events firsthand.

The plot is intricately developed and well-paced, harmoniously pairing with the writing style, settings, and character arcs. It showcases a variety of interconnected stories, allowing readers to learn, grow, and connect with the characters on a profound level. The emotional journey is so compelling that readers may find themselves crying tears of joy by the end, feeling an overwhelming sense of pride and happiness for the characters’ growth from beginning to end.

Furthermore, the book is rich in representation, touching on themes such as cleft lip, anxiety, addiction, grief, and trauma. Each of these topics is handled with care and authenticity, providing an educational aspect that resonates deeply. The narrative teaches valuable lessons, encouraging readers to embrace their scars as symbols of strength and beauty rather than weakness. It also emphasizes the importance of overcoming anxiety in various ways and illustrates that seeking help is not a sign of weakness, but rather a courageous step toward healing. The power of a strong support system and the significance of friendship are highlighted throughout, showcasing the self-discovery journey that is often fraught with ups and downs. Life is depicted as a winding path filled with bumps and bruises, each experience teaching us something valuable and contributing to our growth.

The romantic elements of the story are also noteworthy. While there are multiple romances woven throughout the narrative, the true essence of these relationships can only be fully appreciated by reading the book. They are authentically developed, realistic, and emotionally charged, grounded in truth and honesty. The ups and downs of these relationships serve to enhance the overall narrative, adding depth and complexity to the characters' experiences.

"The Year We Became More" by Amber Irene is a debut novel that transcends the typical boundaries of contemporary romance. Within its pages, readers will find a wealth of opportunities to learn, grow, connect with, and love the characters and their journeys as if they were their own. This book comes highly recommended for anyone who is not afraid to delve into a story that will stop them in their tracks, make their hearts grow, melt, and even break at times. It promises laughter, smiles, and yes, even tears, all in the name of witnessing the growth and journey of characters that readers can’t help but root for and grow to love more and more with each turning page.

Questions and Activities for Readers

Before Reading

• What do you expect to learn about personal growth and transformation from this book?

• Have you ever experienced a significant change in your life? Reflect on that experience and how it shaped you.

• Consider the themes of grief, loss, and mental health. How do you think these themes will be explored in the story?

• Make predictions about the characters based on their descriptions in the synopsis. What challenges do you think they will face?

During Reading

• Keep a journal of your thoughts and feelings as you read. How do the characters' experiences resonate with your own?

• Highlight or note down quotes that stand out to you. Why do these quotes resonate with you?

• As you read about Addie and Jackson, create a character map to track their development and how they influence each other.

• Discuss the book with a friend or join a reading group. Share your thoughts on the characters' choices and growth.

• Reflect on the settings described in the book. How do they contribute to the overall mood and themes of the story?

After Reading

• Write a personal reflection on how the book’s themes of change and resilience relate to your own life.

• Create a visual representation (like a mood board or collage) of the emotions and themes presented in the book.

• Discuss the ending of the book. Were you satisfied with how the characters’ journeys concluded? Why or why not?

• Identify and analyze the character growth of Addie and Jackson. How did their experiences shape them by the end of the story?

• Engage in a creative activity inspired by the book, such as writing a letter to one of the characters or composing a poem about your own transformative experiences.

About the Author

Amber Irene is an author whose work delves into the complexities of identity, resilience, and the nuanced experience of living in a body that society often overlooks. Born with a cleft lip, Amber's personal journey has shaped her storytelling, leading her to create narratives where scars are not merely symbols of trauma, but integral elements of character development. Through her characters, such as Adelina and Jackson, she explores themes of love, self-worth, and the struggle for visibility in a world eager to label difference. Amber's debut novel, The Year We Became More, serves as a poignant reflection of her quest for meaning and representation in literature, addressing the silent questions of existence and acceptance. When she is not writing, Amber finds solace in quiet spaces and meaningful conversations, believing that the power of a story lies not in its volume, but in its honesty.

Where to Buy the Book

• Amazon

• Supporting local bookstores, purchasing through independent sellers, or borrowing from local libraries can help sustain the literary community.

Conclusion

The Year We Became More by Amber Irene is a beautifully crafted debut novel that invites readers on an emotional journey of self-discovery, resilience, and the transformative power of relationships. Through the compelling stories of Addie and Jackson, the book explores significant themes such as grief, mental health, and the importance of connection, making it a poignant read for young adults and new adults alike.

The well-developed characters, rich representation, and immersive settings create a narrative that resonates on multiple levels, encouraging readers to reflect on their own experiences and growth. Amber Irene's storytelling not only entertains but also educates, making this novel a valuable addition to contemporary fiction. As readers navigate through the ups and downs of Addie and Jackson's lives, they are likely to find inspiration and hope, reminding them that healing and love are possible, even in the face of adversity.

For anyone seeking a heartfelt story that balances humor, depth, and authenticity, The Year We Became More is a must-read that will leave a lasting impact long after the final page is turned.