This one hit me a little deeper than I expected.

I went into this thinking it would be more of a light, chaotic road trip story—and yes, you get those moments—but underneath it, there’s a lot of heart and a lot of weight. Kaley and Zoey’s relationship really is the center of everything, and you feel that caregiver dynamic right away. Kaley isn’t just the younger sister… she’s been carrying a lot for a long time, and that internal struggle of who am I outside of this role felt very real.

Zoey needing a kidney transplant adds urgency, but for me, the story wasn’t really about the “mission” as much as it was about Kaley trying to figure out her own life while feeling pulled in every direction. That push and pull between staying for family or choosing yourself… I think a lot of people can relate to that, especially at that age.

I actually appreciated that it didn’t stay heavy the entire time. There are funny, messy, slightly chaotic moments on the road trip that balance things out and make it feel more natural. It’s not overly polished—it feels like real life, where things go wrong and emotions don’t always come out the way you want them to.

If I had to be honest, parts of the storyline felt a little predictable, but I didn’t mind it here because the emotional side carried it. The sister bond, the family tension, and Kaley’s growth are what made this work for me.

Overall, I’d give this a solid 4 stars. It’s a strong coming-of-age story with a lot of heart, especially if you like books that focus more on relationships and personal growth than big plot twists.

Definitely one I’d recommend if you’re in the mood for something emotional but still easy to move through.

If you’re someone who enjoys contemporary YA with a strong emotional core and a road-trip narrative, you may want to keep an eye out for Heartbreak and Other Organ Failures when it releases. This upcoming novel centers on sisters Kaley and Zoey as they set out on a cross-country journey after learning Zoey needs a kidney transplant, a premise that naturally blends urgency with deeply personal stakes. At its heart, the story is expected to explore caregiving, identity, and the complicated balance between responsibility to family and the pursuit of one’s own future.

Kaley’s role as both sister and caretaker places her in a familiar but emotionally complex coming-of-age position, especially as her plans for college begin to collide with her obligations at home. The narrative also promises to highlight the sisterly bond between Kaley and Zoey, portraying it as both a source of strength and tension throughout their journey to locate their estranged father.

Readers who appreciate character-driven stories about family dynamics, resilience, and the difficult choices young people make when love and independence are in conflict may find this a meaningful addition to their reading lists once it becomes available.

I don't typically read YA, but I was happily surprised with this book, I think it really holds it own in the category and has a unique perspective. Kaley is a really great character!

Kaley has always been the functional first-born of her family due to her older sister Zoey's health needs. Raised by a single mom, Kaley often takes on a caregiver role despite being seventeen. Torn between her obligations at home and her dreams of joining her boyfriend Blake at college next year, Kaley is left trying to decide what she wants out of life. When her sister Zoey is in need of a kidney transplant, the three make a last-ditch road trip full of mishaps to try and contact her estranged father to see if he is a match.

Despite the heavy at times content, this was a great coming of age book for teens who do often have to face decisions of staying where they are needed or branching out on their own.

4/5 stars.