To Catch a Firefly by Emmy Sanders is a beautifully written love story about two boys, Ellis and Lucky, who share a deep bond despite their differences. Ellis, who is neurodivergent, and Lucky, the more outgoing character, communicate effortlessly, with Ellis expressing his hidden feelings through unsent love letters. Their unique friendship evolves over time, showcasing both the sweetness of their connection and the bittersweet struggle of coming to terms with their feelings, all while navigating their own lives and challenges.

The writing style captures the emotional depth of the characters, drawing readers into their world as they experience love, friendship, and personal growth. Divided into parts named after moon phases, the story is immersive and poignant, offering a profound exploration of their feelings. There's a perfect balance of heartfelt moments, beautiful prose, and relatable experiences, especially regarding autism. Overall, it’s a captivating read that resonates deeply, leaving a lasting impression.

Characters:

The characters are well-developed, with Ellis embodying quiet strength and neurodivergence, while Lucky represents outgoing, adventurous traits.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is emotionally evocative and structured in a unique way, capturing the experiences of neurodivergent characters.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative is centered around the evolving relationship between Ellis and Lucky, highlighting themes of love, friendship, and personal growth.

Setting:

The setting is a small town in Nebraska, providing a backdrop for the characters' contrasting experiences and growth.

Pacing:

The pacing is deliberate, allowing for emotional depth but sometimes feels stretched in certain areas.

Notes:

Ellis is neurodivergent and has a deep, unspoken bond with his friend Lucky.

Ellis expresses his feelings through unsent emails to Lucky, reflecting his fears about their friendship.

Lucky is an outgoing nature magazine photographer while Ellis prefers to stay home and care for his mother.

The book features a unique structure, dividing the story into parts named after moon phases to enhance emotional depth.

Readers relate to the authentic portrayal of autism through Ellis and his experiences without relying on clichés.

The story beautifully explores themes of friendship, unconditional love, and overcoming personal and societal boundaries.

The author skillfully captivates readers by conveying the emotions and cognitive processes of a neurodivergent character.

Ellis and Lucky's journey is one of deep emotional connection that evolves from childhood friendship to romantic love.

Several reviewers noted the bittersweet melancholy present in the story, even with a happy ending.

The book has sparked strong emotional reactions, leading many readers to tears and reflection on genuine love.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include discussions of neurodiversity struggles, emotional distress, and themes of personal growth.

Has Romance?

Yes, there is a significant romantic element in the story, which is central to the plot.

implied steam level

From The Publisher:

He was my beginning. And my never-ending.

Ellis

There's a lot I've never told my best friend. The fact that I love him. That I miss him every day he's gone. That, sometimes, I ache for him with a ferocity that leaves me breathless.

Lucky Buchanan tore into my life as a boy, wild and daring, my opposite in every way. He drew me in, stole my heart without trying. He hears me, even though I rarely speak a word. But I always knew this place wouldn't be enough for my free-spirited friend. I knew he wasn't mine to keep.

So why, when I finally try to get over him, does he sweep back into town? Why is he upset? Why is there tension between us for the first time in years?

I never saw a future where Lucky could be mine. But now, unless I want to lose my friend, I might not have a choice but to tell the truth. My heart belongs to him. It has from the start.

If only I knew how to hold onto a creature that's meant to fly.

To Catch a Firefly is a standalone, childhood friends-to-lovers romance told in dual POV. There's epic levels of pining, a neurodivergent MC with selective mutism, two friends who always come back to one another, glass hearts and romantic declarations, and a HEA beneath the night sky.

Ratings (2)

Incredible (1)
Loved It (1)

Reader Stats (8):

Read It (1)
Want To Read (7)

2 comment(s)

aimeereadsss

Incredible

2 months

This book is truly stunning. This was my first ever MM romance novel, and I wasn’t disappointed. Oh my gosh, the heartfelt love and care poured into this book. It evokes the essence of falling in love. I don’t think I can even really put into words how much I loved this story.

I’m sorry, but Ellis is the most stunning individual in the history of the world. Im sorry but the letters he writes? Omg

c20owl770

Loved It

2 months

I was in a book slump for quite some time and was looking for something new on my tbr. Nothing looked good but when I was going through some of my save videos on tiktok this book showed up like 3 or for times in my saved. All from different authors so I said f*ck it let’s do it. I DO NOT REGRET IT. I adore Ellis and Lucky. Ellis is a 6’ 5” teddy bear. He does have autism and selective mutism. I was concerned in the beginning how it would be portrayed but Emmy Sanders knocked it out of the park. It was represented well while not taking over the book (not that it’s a bad thing but it was nice to see a portrayal that was more day to day life representation). As a neurodivergent and queer person it touched my heart to see Ellis find someone who excepted him. Differences and all. I enjoyed lucky’s adventurous streak and how loyal he is. It was like a breath of fresh air. The two of them were what I hope to find myself. Every chapter was poetic and I wish I could read this for the first time again. I am not a fan of friends to lovers nor small towns but let me tell you. READ IT. It is worth it. Also it’s an adorable heartfelt queer romance so bonus points. 😁

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To Catch a Firefly

Emmy Sanders