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Maps doesn’t believe in growing up.

He believes in his experiments, Benji’s new driving skills, Perry’s knowledge of “adult things”, and his interstellar boyfriend, Lane.

Maps certainly doesn’t believe in graduating. And he especially doesn’t believe in his friends attending separate colleges.

Because if Maps believed in any of those things, it would mean he was growing up.

105 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 20, 2016

3 people are currently reading
339 people want to read

About the author

Nash Summers

19 books575 followers
Nash Summers rarely has any idea what she’s doing. But when she likes to pretend, she pretends by writing stories at the pace of drying paint. As if that wasn’t exhilarating enough, Nash also enjoys absolute silence, general politeness, and waiting her turn in line.
Needless to say, she’s a bona fide hell raiser.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nash.summers...
Nash also has a super cool newsletter which can be found here: http://eepurl.com/boD5TP

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews
Profile Image for Nash Summers.
Author 19 books575 followers
Read
December 22, 2016
Whoop, whoop! Available today for $0.99 until December 26th! :)

Maps (Life According to Maps #1) and Diamonds (Life According to Maps #2) are also on sale until the 26th.

Profile Image for ~✡~Dαni(ela) ♥ ♂♂ love & semi-colons~✡~.
3,534 reviews1,077 followers
December 11, 2016
And Maps was in love.

Pure. Simple. Love.

So very in love, no other feelings existed. No other love in the entirety of all the galaxies existed because Maps used it all up right then, right there, as Lane whispered wrong lyrics into his ear and stepped on toes.

The melody of the song seemed to last an entire lifetime . . . .

Maps is a romantic at heart.

He's irresistible, charming, brilliant, AND romantic. Is it any wonder his parents don't want him to move out?

Umm, actually . . .

Maps' parents encourage him to apply to college, but Maps is scared of leaving Benji, leaving home, leaving LANE. He's in denial.

The title may be Lane's, but this is Maps' story; it's about his fears, his longing, his entirely unrealistic and yet TRUE way of looking at the world.

Do not attempt to read Lane's as a standalone. This series needs to be read in order or you won't understand Maps at all. And that would be a pity. Because Maps is unlike anyone else.

Maps is the kind of boy who stares at t-shirts, not boobs; who wants to crash a party just to say he's done it; who wears flip-flops to the prom. He even makes Lane jealous (unintentionally, of course).

This is a story about young love, FIRST love; it's about finding your way in the world and marching to your own heartbeat.



He kissed Lane because Lane deserved to be kissed now and tomorrow and until the end of time.

Benji and Perry, Maps' BFFs, have their own love/hate thing going on that's utterly hilarious. Benji may like girls, but he sure can't stop talking about Perry.

I'm going with 4 stars because I really wanted more than a kiss this time; there's no steam in the Life According to Maps books, but there's humor and friendship and whimsy.

There were seven billion people in the world, and somehow, the most thoughtful one found his way right next door.

Sometimes that's all you need.
Profile Image for Reading_ Tamishly.
5,291 reviews3,435 followers
March 13, 2021
I fell in love with the silly young characters. And their silly lives. And their silliness. Does it make me silly? Of course, silly me. This silly series made me silly happy. I am still silly giggling like a silly grandma. Silly me.
Profile Image for ☆ Todd.
1,437 reviews1,575 followers
December 14, 2016

This book could have easily been re-titled, "Into the Mind of Maps: A Study in Severe Separation Anxiety."



Per Maps' usual, the way he approaches at his life, family, friends and dating a hot jock are nothing short of hilarious.

However, also per Maps' usual, he can't (or won't) communicate for shit about anything that actually matters. He could teach a master class in Avoidance 401.



When Maps thinks about the Big Life Changes that are on the horizon, he simply can't bring himself to face them head-on. Things like where does he want to go to college? How will he deal with the possibility of Benji, his best friend for forever, possibly attending a different college? And will Lane want to keep dating, even if that means long distance?



Yes, a lot of heavy stuff on a young man, for sure, but the majority of the book still felt light and fun, with Maps injecting his usual 'unique' brand of Maps-ness (Mapsnicity?) into every aspect of the story.

Every time I get an ARC from this series, I always seem to have forgotten just how odd the way that Maps looks at the world truly is, but every single time, it makes me smile like an idiot from beginning to end.



I loved this series and hate to see it wrapping up, so I'm pray that maybe, just maybe, we'll get one more Maps book. Maybe something with Benji and Perry finally working out what's really going on with them.

As for this story, I absolutely adored the ending, where Maps and Lane sit in the dark and finally talk things out, deciding where their lives are going to lead after high school.

As in the previous books, there is no steam, as evidently these are the two least hormonal teenagers who have ever walked the face of the Earth, but that's perfectly fine. It seems to fit in regards to these stories and with Maps' innocent, often unrealistic, world view.

I'd rate this one a solid 4.25 stars, which would have easily been 5 stars, if only I had gotten more on-page time with both Maps and Lane present to help cement the true depth of their feelings in my mind.

----------------------------------------------

My ARC copy of the story was provided by the author, in exchange for a fair, unbiased review.
Profile Image for .Lili. .
1,275 reviews275 followers
December 21, 2016


Lane's by Nash Summers is the third in the Life According to Maps Series. The boys are coming to the end of their high school years, and life choices must be made. Staying home after high school? Going away to college? Going alone or applying to the same school as your best friends and boyfriend? All of these are decisions that Maps has been putting off and refuses even to talk about until they can't be avoided any longer.

My highlights:

-The characters- all of them. They're fleshed out and so different from each other but fit together perfectly. They're like this awesome dysfunctional family.

-The plot. It's a coming of age story. It's about friendships, first love, and finding ourselves, and our place in society.

-Humor. -Humor. Between Maps' ridiculousness, Benji and Perry's banter, and Maps' being all goo goo eyes for Lane- you'll be laughing out loud.

-There's a feel-good vibe throughout the series.

-And the end- you won't be able not to smile. It was so cute and heartwarming.

Can this be read as standalone or out of order?Nope. You have to read all three and in order.

Sidenote: I actually did a Buddy Read with my 13-year-old daughter. We have different taste in books (plus, she's not old enough to read the books Mama typically reads), but after I saw her struggling with her bisexuality and fitting in- I knew this series would be perfect for her. I recommended it to her, and she loves it. We read books 2 & 3 together. This book is for all ages and a book that everyone can enjoy.

So, do I recommend this? Yup! I mean- do you want to read a story with endearing characters, that will make you laugh, and leave you smiling at the end? Then look no further, friends. Plus- it's one you can read with your kids. Something you can bond with them over. :)


P.S. Dear Nash Summers,

Can Benji and Perry get a New Adult book- together? *pleeease*

P.S.S. Also, thank you for the note at the end of the book. That was absolutely perfect and the reason I wanted my daughter to read these books.


Profile Image for Amina .
1,269 reviews3 followers
June 17, 2023
✰ 4.25 stars ✰

“And Maps was in love.

Pure. Simple. Love.

So very in love, no other feelings existed. No other love in the entirety of all the galaxies existed because Maps used it all up right then, right there, as Lane whispered wrong lyrics into his ear and stepped on his toes.

The melody of the song seemed to last an entire lifetime . . . .”


There is a simple joy to reading stories like Lane's that can deliver feelings in a few pages and do it successfully without you wanting more. 🤍🤍 All the pains that plague senior year - long-distance friendships, best friends no longer there, prom nights - when it's told with a kindness, with a humorous touch, with a genuine feeling of the trials of newfound love and happiness of boyfriends and best friends and finding your place in the world or on the side of your partner, Maps is a protagonist with a real-life honest voice that made me chuckle aloud and relate so very much to his thoughts.

“He never had a choice, really. He was a sucker for all things Lane.”

Such a delightful read - so honest, so pure with feeling and just so genuinely portrayed - Maps has difficulty expressing his feelings - to voice how much he's afraid of change, of losing those close to him - how he wants to cling to the happiness, the safety net he has for himself, the joys of first love, the pure innocence of it - I believed it - and I enjoyed reading all his futile attempts at being the best of boyfriends, the better best friend. 😊😊 How he wanted to shower Lane with his affection - to show that he cared enough for him as a boyfriend, only wanting him to know that always and forever.

“He kissed Lane because Lane deserved to be kissed now and tomorrow and until the end of time. Lane deserved to smile always and never feel insecure because he was perfect in his imperfections.”

So rich with humor and so vibrant with honesty, it's a journey to reach your destination. And if you have someone to guide you along the way - to hold your hand to reach the stars - what could be a better reward? 🩷🩷 What greater happiness and successful achievement than even getting into the college of your dreams?

“Blog, I’m afraid. I’m afraid that if Lane moves away, all the stars will fall out of the sky.”

I loved all the friendships - all the funny phrases - the witty dialogue - the brazen attempts of fulfilling your hopes - Perry and Benji's ill-timed flirtations - honestly, they had me cackling! 😀 The vibe of enemies to lovers is so apparent with them - prom night really spoke for itself! Shame there isn't a NA book for them, yet. 😔

“Who would touch you?” Benji grumbled, hands on steering wheel.

“Don’t be jealous, Benji. At least I let you look,” Perry retorted.”


Maps and Benji's beautiful friendship, Lanes complete devotion to Maps - the fears and insecurities over the unknown that lies beyond the horizon - knowing in their hearts that life doesn't need a map to chart out the route to their future - that they can map out their lives, one step at at a time. A light cozy and the softest of soft reads - definitely made reading it all the worthwhile. 🥰🥰🥰
Profile Image for Ele.
1,319 reviews40 followers
December 13, 2016
~4.5 stars~
"The world lapsed into slow motion.[...]

In through the impossibly bright light, walked Lane. His shirt flapped in wind that didn’t exist, just like that one scene of the glittery guy from that teen vampire movie Benji had made Maps watch. Maps held his breath. [...] And then Lane said the most devastatingly romantic thing Maps had ever heard.

“Sup.”

And that's how Maps experiences his first love, y'all. In the same hilarious, OTT, dramatic way he experiences EVERYTHING!

This is Maps's last chance to do some growing up. In a few months time, everyone will be going away to college, including Lane and Benji. And no matter how much Maps tries to stall and avoid the inevitable, he has to start making plans too. But what if these plans can't include his boyfriend and his best friend?



Maps is still head over hills for Lane, because who wouldn't? Lane was...
"...better than amazing, he was perfect. Better than perfect, he was… He was… He was even cooler than Dr. Who!"

And although we don't get Lane's POV, it is obvious that he's smitten with Maps too. He even gets possessive and jealous.

Above all else, this book is refreshingly hilarious but every now and then something small and sweet would tug at my heartstrings. Like...
“I’m on your side. I’ll fight the stupid universe for you.”

or...
"He kissed Lane because Lane deserved to be kissed now and tomorrow and until the end of time. Lane deserved to smile always and never feel insecure because he was perfect in his imperfections."



Like the first two books, Lane's is steamless. "But eighteen year old boys are horny, and there's chemistry between Lane and Maps", one would say. That's true, and I always usually want steam in my NA books. But you know what, I think that Maps and Lane are meant to stay on the YA side, and that's perfectly ok with me. This is the kind of book that I'm going to give to my son to read in a few years.

One of my favorite parts of the story is Benji and Perry, and their incessant banter. For a straight guy, Benji is awfully interested in Perry. There's crazy chemistry there, and I'm hoping for a NA story about them.

There are fears and insecurities about what the future holds (because "growing up blows!", man!), the perfect prom proposal, and the most hilarious tree fight! You 'll see...

My only niggles, if you can call them that, is that I would have liked a little more on page time with Lane and Maps together, or a little less abrupt ending, but all in all this was really great. Solid 4.5 stars and highly recommended!

Note: Lane's does not work well as a standalone. You need to read Maps and Diamonds first. Chop chop!
Profile Image for Jewel.
1,927 reviews280 followers
December 14, 2016
Lane's is the third book in the Maps series. Read them in order, though, because you won't really "get" Maps, unless you do.

Maps. I'm not entirely sure he's human. Maybe his parents found an alien and tried to convince it that it actually was human. I mean Maps is kind of unreal, you know? Oh, I adore him to pieces. He is truly one of a kind.

So, it's senior year and Maps is being forced to think about things like university. And being Maps, he also wonders about other teenage things he hasn't experienced, like crashing parties, making a scene and making it to third base. Not that he knows what third base is, mind you, our Maps is just special that way.

But Maps has so much anxiety about the possibility of being separated from Benji and Lane and he handles it by not even thinking about it. Until he can't anymore. You see, Maps isn't ready to learn how to Adult yet. He likes the way things are and with high school coming to an end...he is forced to face another life phase filled with loads of uncertainty.

I adore this series. Maps is a special guy and Lane recognizes just how wonderful and unique Maps really is. Lane, whose adoration of Maps can be seen from space. Lane who has a plan. Lane who always comes through.

"And Maps was in love.
Pure. Simple. Love."


And his love was returned. I might have even shed a tear at the sweetness of the ending. Aww...Maps...

--------------------
ARC of Lane's was generously provided by the author, in exchange for an honest review.


Profile Image for Papie.
860 reviews181 followers
August 5, 2021
I’m reviewing all three books here as they are super short and I actually read the combined version.

Maps is a quirky, hilarious, amazing teenager. He is always lost in his own world, forgets he is covered in ketchup from a science experiment and goes on with his day, cares about his friends in a weird way, drives his parents crazy. Lane is a gorgeous sweet popular jock, sweetest guy in the whole town, and somehow he falls in love with Maps.

The characters are so fun and interesting, including Maps’s friends Benji and Perry, who are totally perfect for each other but they just don’t know it yet, even though everybody else does.

It’s YA, all boys are still in high school, growing up and discovering who they are. There is no sex. They barely make it to first base. Or is it third base?

“What do you mean? We didn’t do anything. But I was in his bedroom. Isn’t that third base?”
“That is so not third base. That’s not even first base. That’s like...just showing up to the game without even wearing a jersey.”
“Then what is third base?”


What they are certainly doing is falling in love.

The lyrics were wrong. So, so wrong. And Lane was an awful singer. He carried no tune, and had no harmony, and rhythm likely didn’t even exist in his world, and his voice kept cracking, and he kept tripping over Maps’ feet, and constantly nudged the side of Maps’ glasses making them askew.
And Maps was in love. Pure. Simple. Love.


All three books are basically one book, so either read the omnibus edition or read them in the right order. The second was my least favourite because being in Maps’s head was exhausting and all the miscommunication made me scream. But it was also very on point for HS relationships.

I love Nash Summers. I had to say it. Like I’m in love with Nash Summers.
Profile Image for River .
450 reviews73 followers
February 9, 2017
This serial was so beautiful, my little heart is so full of fluffy feelings.

I love Maps, I love Lane, I love Benji and Perry and I can't believe this is actually over.
I felt something between Benji and Perry so I thought there were going to be more stories but I think this is the last one which makes me sad because the characters and story are so amazing that I could read 10 more novellas
Profile Image for Izengabe.
276 reviews
September 17, 2017
Qué cosa más bonita, cada libro de esta serie es mejor que el anterior.
He reído, me he emocionado y hasta se me ha escapado una lagrimita, y yo NO LLORO NUNCA.
Maps y Lane son lo más tierno, lo más mono y lo más adorable que hay. :')
Divertidísimo, me ha sacado unas cuántas carcajadas (me miraban raro en la parada del bus xD

Recomiendo muchísimo esta serie, de esas lecturas que te hacen sentir bien y te reconcilian con la cruda realidad. Si le tengo que buscar una pega (no las tiene) es que vemos poco a Princess Madame Sprinkle. Eso sí, cuando sale, se luce. xD
Profile Image for Karen.
1,860 reviews91 followers
January 2, 2017
Some things just weren't meant to be...

and in this case it's Maps and me. You know that moment when you're standing at the dock waiting for your ship to come in and you realize that not only has it sailed without you but you're at the wrong damned dock...yeah, that moment.

I'm sorry I tried and I just don't get it. All my friends love him and yet, try as I might, most times I'd have to say he just irritates me. I thought maybe after the second book I was starting to warm up to him but nope, I'm right back to the beginning and Maps is just annoying me.

Seriously I'm not saying don't read this book because all my friends loved it...Ele, Dani, Jewel, Todd, Sandra and on and on...until you get to me. I don't know why it is but when it comes to Maps, I'm broken. For some reason while everyone is thinking cute and adorable my brain is going "Thank god he's not my kid". Ironically there was a point in the book where I was pretty sure that his parents might agree to me. I've known a lot of parents with kids going off to college, myself included and none of them have ever encouraged their kids to go to school in Europe or Canada when the kid wanted to stay local and save them a ton of money...I'm just putting that out there for the universe to consider.

So why you might be asking did I give this book 3 stars? Well, for one thing it's well written. Just because the story doesn't work for me doesn't mean I can't appreciate the quality of it. I was going to just split it down the middle and call it a day but I have to admit I love the cover on this book and I'm bumping this one up to 3 stars because of the pretty that is the cover.

If you like stories with truly different characters in them...give this one a try because 'Maps' is nothing if not unique...unfortunately he's just not my brand of unique...what can I say except..."different strokes for different folks..."

I'm not sure if this is the final story for Maps and his friends, honestly for those who like him, I hope not, it really does seem like there's potential for a whole lot more...Maps is off to college...seriously that's a wealth of stories for anyone...for someone as unique as Maps it's a novel waiting to happen to be sure. So to Maps, I say "Good luck and farewell. I think I've gone as far on this journey as I need to."

*********************
An ARC of Lane's was graciously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Tess.
2,183 reviews26 followers
June 6, 2017
4.75 stars

First re-read. Oh these guys!!! I want and need more!!
----

This book made me so HAPPY!! I know I'll read this series over and over again anytime I need to feel better about the world. But I'm not ready for the series to end. I need to follow along with what happens to Maps and Lane next. And what about Benji and Perry?!?!?! This can't be it!!!
Profile Image for Anke.
2,505 reviews97 followers
December 31, 2016
Maps - I love him! This book, and of course the other two, was a joy to read and after finishing it I'm sitting here with a bright smile on my face and also a bit sad that this series is obviously at the end.
And I'm glad that my reading year 2016 finishes with an uplifting book and I hope this is a sign that next year will be a good reading year!

Profile Image for Kaje Harper.
Author 90 books2,711 followers
July 28, 2017
Maybe 4.5 stars, but this series makes me smile as I read them, so rounded up. (And yes, these must be read in order). Maps is a young man somewhere on the autism spectrum, and as the parent of a kid with a degree of Aspergers, so many traits of Maps' rang true. His attempts to use logic on emotions, the missed social cues, the grandiose plans, the swoops of emotion, ignoring inconvenient facts, the off-kilter expectations. The way his parents love and want to launch him into the world, but can't help wishing he could learn to fit in just a bit better, even as they do an admirable job of letting him be who he is. My heart ached just a bit for Maps, and everyone around him, as high school graduation, and a wider world, await a young man whose readiness is... marginal. Thank heavens for his friends.

Maps has loved his life recently, with Benji as his best friend, Perry as his odd friend, Lane next door as his boyfriend, and a school routine he understands and has mastered. But everyone is talking about learning to drive and applying to college and moving on. And it's dawning on Maps that change is going to mean losing some of the best parts of his life. What are the odds that he and Lane and Benji and Perry will all end up in the same place next year? How can he go on existing if they don't? His first impulse is to totally ignore the question and pretend next year will never come. But even Maps' brand of eccentric genius can't stop time.

There are moments when the humor oversteps plausibility slightly (eg. the driving) but mostly this is a fun, entertaining and enjoyable tale about four distinct characters with qualities and flaws, growing up. Lane's steadiness and open affection are exactly what Map needs to stay afloat, and the ending is warm and hopeful. This could be enjoyed by younger teen readers as well as adults.
Profile Image for alyssa.
1,004 reviews213 followers
December 11, 2021
**shout out to Challah at ya elf for the lovely gift!**

Maps held his breath.
And then Lane said the most devastatingly romantic thing Maps had ever heard.
"Sup."
"N-noth--well, uh. You know. Lots. Of nothing. And stuff," Maps replied smoothly.
"Sweet."
"Yeah. Really radical."
"Totally."
"Totes."
Perry moaned. "Listening to you two without Pepto Bismol within arm's reach is like playing Russian roulette."

>> me the whole book: awwwww 🥺🥺 *vomits in true Perry fashion*

[4.5] what a ride!! so many laughs with an adorable ending, i loved this!

i was 100% like Maps back in high school, not wanting to think about my future career path, mind set on continuing the fun that i'd been having and ignoring the imminent & momentous changes in my life. let's be honest, adulting has its moments, but it really isn't as fun as it's cracked up to be when you have bills and stuff that require putting on a pair of big girl pants 🤧 let me return to the days when everyone would be at my beck and call, and i'd be fed and bathed at will 😌👑

Maps and Lane talk things out more (thank the high heavens!), although not all the time because Maps is Maps and he deals with life's problems with the ancient art of avoidance, duh. but even so, Nash Summers somehow manages to make me overlook my personal niggles by doing an exceptional job once again crafting a whimsical tale of first love and growing up 💖

And Maps was in love.
Pure. Simple. Love.
So very in love, no other feelings existed. No other love in the entirety of all the galaxies existed because Maps used it all up right then, right there, as Lane whispered wrong lyrics into his ear and stepped on his toes.


before i end my review, i want to state for the record that i'll never get over the fact that we were deprived of seeing my personal otp Benji & Perry (aka Berry) come to fruition 😭
Maps looked down at his apparel. He wore a pair of jeans, flip-flop sandals, and a bright red T-shirt. Oh, and the T-shirt had a picture of Benji attempting to eat a huge cheeseburger, sauce all over his face, and the words THE FACE OF AMERICA'S FUTURE near the top.

Perry gifted the shirt to Maps just days before and, needless to say, it was now Maps' new favorite shirt.

"Why did you even take that picture of me?" Benji yapped, pointing at Perry who was clutching his stomach in laughter.

"I love wildlife photography," Perry replied.

I MEAN COME ON!!! LOOK AT THESE TWO!!!

please bless us with this content one day, i would be "Berry" thankful🤣
Profile Image for Ami.
6,214 reviews489 followers
December 14, 2016
Things Maps need to do before graduation 1) Crash a Party 2) Learn to Drive 3) Write a blog post 4) Plan a road trip 5) Make a scene at school 6) Ask Lane about college...

... or our Maps is growing up *sigh*

It has always been a joy returning to the life according Maps -- he's a character that delights me every single time. No matter that he is socially challenged -- really, Maps, you come to your boyfriend's house wearing tux? *laugh uncontrollably* -- or that he can be very narcissistic, but there is no doubt that I love this kid.

Like I said in my previous review for Diamonds, Maps bears resemblance to Sheldon Cooper from The Big Bang Theory for me. Smart, think of himself like he's the center of the world, but can still be someone you depend on, which is why his friends love (or at least tolerate) him.

This book, gives us another step in Maps' journey into adulthood. Maps have to deal with the fact that they are going to college, and for the first time there might be a chance he will not end up with the same school as his BFF, Benji, or his next door boyfriend, Lane.

Of course he deals with it by avoiding it. Completely. That's how Maps dealing with separation anxiety apparently.

Lane's has more serious "issue" in the life of a young man compared to the previous two books, as in preparing one self to leave the comfort and safety of your parents' house, to enter the world of college, to grow up.

But Nash Summers still injects hilarity and of course, a lot of hearts, into this one. Even with the life changes that is the future of Maps, we have tender moments, of Lane calming Maps down, of the boys dancing at the prom, and of course of the two of them talks things out, to see what they will do next. It's so lovely and brings a smile to my face.

... yes, our Maps is growing up *sigh*

Now, I just need Nash Summers to somehow settle this weird sexual tension thing with Benji and Perry, and I will be a happy girl.

I’m yours, Lane. Here or ten million miles away






The ARC is provided by the author for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
Profile Image for Cassandra.
849 reviews95 followers
July 18, 2017
*An ARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*

“It was either falling love or angina, and Maps was an optimist after all.”

It can’t be over. This cannot be the final time I get to read the beautiful characters of Maps, Lanes, Benji, or Perry. I’ll miss them all way too much, and I may be able to look back on not getting more of these babies as a childhood trauma. Maps, and his unbelievably unique everything. Lane, and his adorable baseball loving innocence. Perry, everyone’s favorite sass master of all things queer. And Benji, and his doneness with everything Perry and his fantastic skills as a wingman. (I would like to propose a novel starring Benji and Perry and their future love for each other. I ship it.) I might even miss the little terror known as Madame Princess Sprinkle.

”Maps narrowed his eyes at his dad. “It’s almost as if you two don’t want me hanging around at home for the next four to eight years.” Maps knew that couldn’t be true though. He was an absolute delight, and also charming as all heck.”

This is one of the few series I can say I’m planning on rereading come early 2017. For a set of short stories, these are so well fleshed and written that it feels like I’ve been with them for a full-size trilogy. Maybe even longer. I’m not ready to give up on this unique combination of humor and fluffiness. I love it too much.

”There was a baseball poster taped to the outside, and a caution sign which read: STAY OUT, and then in smaller type: unless you’re a ball fan. Maps blinked at the caution sign a few times, trying to remember something snarky Perry had said that sounded very similar to Lane’s sign.”

Nash Summers does a fabulous job of wrapping the series up enough to give it a coherent ending if you’re one to settle, and also leaving it open enough for the possibility of College According to Maps. (Whether you’re religious or not, this is something to pray for.)

I can’t say enough positive stuff about these books. Just read them already.
Profile Image for Laura.
1,518 reviews252 followers
July 3, 2017

I’m such a sucker for falling for the boy next door tales. They make my heart swoon and ache every time. But this! This series has one of the sweetest falling for the boy next door couples I’ve ever bumped into. From the very first *tap, tap, tap* on the bedroom window, I was in love. Maps and Lane are sweet and hilarious all rolled into one giant love burrito! :D

Big changes are creeping up in Maps’ world in book three though. Everyone keeps talking about college and the future. Where will Maps go? How will BFF Benji survive without Maps’ guidance and genius? And Lane? How…well Maps can’t even say the words. Can Maps face a future without Lane?

“What if…what if the distance is too much? What if Lane doesn’t want to try the long-distance thing? Of course he won’t. Look at him. He could have any girl, boy, or ostrich he wanted with that smile of his.”

Lane and Maps are truly original! They go at their own pace and move in their own sweet, lovable way. I have to admit my heart did this weird flippy, melty thing when Maps burst into Lane’s bedroom for the first time. The fact that he thought seeing Lane’s room was getting to third base was hilarious and cute as hell. My heart melted into a giant puddle of adorableness. *sigh* And Benji…Maps’ friendship with Benji is just as adorable and heartwarming. Two friends who will be calling each other with ridiculous questions and situations until the end of time.

This installment made me smile, laugh, and tear up. From tuxes to driving lessons to crashing parties! These guys just kill me! I’ll miss them. Here’s hoping the adventures and love keep coming their way. I hope Maps, Lane, Benji, and Perry are all happy as can be out there in the world—causing trouble and fun at every turn.

I want more! Any chance for more?

Highly recommended series. GO. Go meet Maps! He’ll put a smile on your face.

Profile Image for Vero Rinconin.
521 reviews133 followers
July 23, 2018
#EspecialLoveIsLove Qué bonitoooo!!!! Las risas continúan en este tercer libro pero es algo más emotivo :)
Una serie fantástica y de mis favoritas, voy a echar de menos a todos estos personajes ^.^
Profile Image for Linda ~ they got the mustard out! ~.
1,876 reviews139 followers
September 4, 2018
This was a fun little conclusion to this trilogy. I got a hoot out of Benji and Perry's hate-like relationship, they really stole the show. Stacie was only on page for two sentences, thank god. Maps was back into oblivious, OTT mode. Not that he really got out of it in the previous book but he seemed to be making up for lost time.

Since this is a short story, there's a lot of jumping from one plot point to another, which keeps things moving but also made it feel like I was missing things.

My idea of Maps's parents as he drives off to college:

Profile Image for Sandra .
1,966 reviews347 followers
January 2, 2017
4.5 stars.

Utterly adorkable 3rd installment to Life According To Maps. In which Maps and Lane and Benji and Perry try to figure out the pitfalls of making plans for after high school, teenage angst, and first love.

Maps' usual quirks are front and center as always, assuming that while he should probably find a college to attend, his parents don't really want him to leave, which obviously explains his reluctance in applying for college, obviously, and has nothing to do with his fears of not getting into the same school as Lane, no sirree, not at all.

As Maps and Lane navigate their last few months of senior year, plan for and attend prom, Maps also learns a lot. Okay, some. He definitely learns that Lane loves him, and that he loves Lane. He learns that Perry might have the hots for Benji, possibly, and that those feelings might be returned to some extent, despite Benji's protests and denials.

The way Maps looks at the world is still the same in this book, which is to say completely different from anyone else. He convinces himself that it's not his fears of leaving Benji, and losing Lane, that are keeping him from applying to college and looking forward to finishing high school. He also has a list of things he thinks one should accomplish before finishing high school, such as crashing a party. He makes Lane jealous, unintentionally, during a situation that is so utterly Maps I giggled out loud. I actually giggled quite a few times throughout this book.

This book should not be read as a standalone, since at this point in the series, you have to know Maps to understand him. Besides, why wouldn't you want to read the entire series from start to finish anyway?

Maps is like nobody else you've ever known. That is part of his charm, and while he's not the only character that makes this series worthwhile reading, he's a huge part of the reason.

This is firmly YA fare, as there is no steam other than some toe-curling kisses, but that's not a detriment at all. These boys fumble, they stumble and nearly fall, but their bond is strong and will surely lead them along the right path.

I hope we'll get at least a glimpse of them during their college years. How about it, Nash Summers?


** I received a free copy of this book from its author. A positive review was not promised in return. **
Profile Image for Lori.
Author 2 books100 followers
June 7, 2017
Amazing

I think this may even be my favourite in the series, I'm not sure why it took me so long to read it. What a mistake to make! I have so much love for Benji, Lane and Perry - and of course the wonderful Maps. This talented author has done it again. Amazing.
Profile Image for Sheri.
1,418 reviews194 followers
February 10, 2017
Do you have those near and dear to your heart book friends? I do. Maps is one of them. He is a one of a kind quirky guy. Have you seen ‘The Big Bang Theory’? I watch very little television (bookworm here) but I always watch my favorite nerds. Sheldon Cooper is an uber-nerd and Maps is his doppelgänger. They are very different yet have extremely parallel personalities. This is book three in Life According to Maps and I urge you to start at the very beginning. Experiencing the introduction of Lane into Maps world is too good to pass up. I was anxiously awaiting this release and then savored it. I set it aside until I knew I needed it. I had enormous faith that Summer’s would rock my world with this final episode (sobs) of Maps extraordinary high school career. She did not disappoint.

What's to like: It’s a given that I will enjoy anything Miss Summer’s creates. Her artist gifts are bountiful; she pens adorkable tales and then wraps them in the most amazing packaging. Her characters, her writing style, her covers…I like them all. I like them a lot. As we are aware from the first two books, Lane is Maps boyfriend. They are also neighbors but the boyfriend bit is fairly new. Maps is invited over to Lane’s house for dinner with his parents. Maps takes this…next step very seriously. I couldn’t stop the belly laughs from this and the many other Maps moments. I especially enjoyed the party crashing scene. Yep, that’s gotta be my golden Maps minute from this episode. Maps and his crew are loads of fun.

What's to love: Maps. Lane. Maps loving Lane. Lane loving Maps. I loved it all. Their senior year is flying by and the scary unknown of ‘what’s next’ is looming over them. Benji and Lane have both applied to colleges. Maps cannot face the fact that high school is ending so, he hasn’t applied to any colleges yet. But, he also can’t bear to be left behind. This presents a problem. He wants to stay but he doesn’t want everyone to leave him. His life is in turmoil. Turmoil is not a good place for Maps. He distracts himself with a to-do list. He wants to complete a set of accomplishments that he equates with senior skills. Luckily he has some special guys to help him achieve them. Even if he doesn’t know where he’s going tomorrow, he knows where he’s at today. And isn’t that the most important thing?

And that ending? Gahhhh! LOVED it!

Beware of: This is YA so I’m not certain it needs mentioning, but the smexy time is non-existent. I didn’t need it or miss it but if it’s crucial for you, be advised first base is as far as these boys get. Yes, I’m talking about ‘touching first base’ Maps.

This book is for: Maps lovers or Nash lovers or any YA lovers. Go on, go get it…it’s a trip you won’t forget.

*4.5 stars*
Book UNfunk
Profile Image for books_and_brew.
549 reviews35 followers
March 30, 2017

I am swooning over here. I loved this short series so much - I could read about Maps and Lane for the rest of my life and not get bored with them.

This series was about two boys growing into their affections, all the while not caring about what others thought and caring all too much about what each other felt.

I loved the connection that Maps and Lane had. Seeing them grow and figure out young love together made me smile, laugh and wish I was back to those days as well. I think it's fun to see the naivety of love from the Highschool perspective, but also appreciate that this love is shaping the rest of their lives. Every moment they experience will be a product of the love they both share.

Nash Summers gained a forever fan and I can only hope that we get a college series about these two! ;)

On to the next!
Profile Image for La*La.
1,912 reviews42 followers
December 23, 2016
5+++ stars.

Oh, this was so adorable and squee-able. And definitely the most romantic book in the series. No steam, though..Maps is such a late bloomer :D

I'm super sad the series is over...c'mon, Maps in college? Definitely worth writing about!

Also, Berry should totally be a thing! *_* The sparks were flying something fierce. >.<
Profile Image for meep.
757 reviews16 followers
January 22, 2017
omg map is hilarious i love him so much! PLEASE tell me there is a book 4
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