How to Love You When You're Gone

How to Love You When You're Gone is a contemporary young adult fiction novel that explores the complexities of first love and family loyalty. High school senior Mayte balances the care of her ailing abuelita and her half sister while putting her own college dreams on hold. She meets Auggie, an aspiring writer who views himself as boring and struggles with his creative applications. After a disastrous blind date, the two are forced into the same social circle and must navigate a tense relationship that slowly evolves into genuine romance.

This volume 1 story blends romance with social themes of death, grief, and bereavement. As tragedy hits Mayte's family, Auggie attempts to help her heal by writing her story. This Hispanic and Latino centered narrative examines the thin line between selfless support and personal ambition. The plot focuses on friendship and emotional recovery within a realistic United States setting.