This one had a fun premise, but lost a few things in execution!
Jasper is the black sheep of her family, thanks to her autism, which her mom has basicThis one had a fun premise, but lost a few things in execution!
Jasper is the black sheep of her family, thanks to her autism, which her mom has basically had her hide since childhood. Her family aims for perfection and focuses on her older sister, Christine, who is getting married on New Year's Eve. Jasper reluctantly returns home to Lake Pristine for the wedding festivities, with the secret knowledge that she's dropping out of college with dreams of going into interior design.
SOME LIKE IT COLD has a lot of good points to make about neurodivergence and autism, but good grief, it gets repetitive, as if it's beating us over the head with Jasper's diagnosis! It doles out symptoms like we're reading from WebMD, rather than learning about an actual human. Her sister Christine is horrible with no true redeemable qualities, making it difficult to root for the sisters to reconcile.
Jasper's love interest is Arthur, who has remained in Lake Pristine to run his late father's movie house. The two were childhood enemies, but with Jasper's return this childhood hatred turns into a spark. This is quite confusing, as it seems like they truly hated each other, and the story never makes clear how that hate actually manifests as unrequited love.
The story has some cute points, including its picaresque small town holiday setting and Jasper's friendship with Arthur's little sister, but it's bogged down by repetition and a lack of forward momentum. There's also far more telling than showing with the prose, making the book feel very long. Note that this is characterized as YA, but both Jasper and Arthur come across as older.
Overall, this has some fun Christmas aspects, but I couldn't quite get past all the flaws. 2.5 stars. ...more
SAY A LITTLE PRAYER easily cements Jenna Voris as a must-read author for me. If you haven't read one of her earlier books, EVERY TIME YOU HEAR THAT SOSAY A LITTLE PRAYER easily cements Jenna Voris as a must-read author for me. If you haven't read one of her earlier books, EVERY TIME YOU HEAR THAT SONG, you should.
In PRAYER, Voris delves into the world of religion and queer teens, introducing us to Riley, a teenager reckoning with her sexuality. Once a member of the Pleasant Hills Baptist church, she and her family left after its powerful leader, Pastor Young, publicly humiliated and kicked out her older sister, Hannah in front of the entire congregation. And then, shortly after Riley came out, Pastor Young's entire sermon focused on the sins of homosexuality.
Unfortunately for Riley, many of her friends are church members, including her best friends Ben and Julia, who just happen to be Pastor Young's children. The Hannah incident has caused some distance from her friends. But she finds herself reunited with both of them when she's forced to attend Pleasant Hills youth camp after an altercation at school with another student, who has been insulting her sister. (Because, of course, just punishment involves attending a religious camp.)
Once at camp, when Riley realizes Pastor Young will be preaching about the seven deadly sins, she decides to write an essay about each one and expose Pastor Young and his church for how hypocritical it truly is. While at camp, even though she can't talk to Julia about her father, she feels very close to her best friend. As in, you know, gay close! Scandal!
PRAYER is very YA, with our dear Riley making some terrible decisions, but it's perfect for its intended audience. It's also smart and witty and does a wonderful job of exploring religion (while still holding teen interest). What happens when religion doesn't bring joy or peace, the story asks, but instead comes from a place of fear, dictating lives and forcing children and families to act a certain way out of a forced sense of terror or humiliation.
Through Riley and Julia's characters, we see how life can be for queer teens--and how difficult it can be for religious ones. Voris illustrates the pressures both Riley and Julia feel from the church and shows how different it is when Riley receives familial support but Julia only hears of fire and brimstone. Their stories are inspiring and truthful and will ring incredibly truthful to kids going through the same thing.
As the book asks why and how pastors decide who is worthy, we see Riley's growth, as she struggles with why no one is questioning Pastor Young's culture of fear. She begins to understand how people--including those whom she's been very angry with--in religious situations maybe do not realize how things could be different, or that there are other options.
There are some moments in this book that made me cheer out loud. Others made me sad, as I felt so deeply for these teens. This is such a well-written, emotional book. There's not a ton of resolution with the ending, but it's certainly realistic. This is a story with a lot of religious talk, but it's not preachy, and you shouldn't let the religious angle scare you off--it's a wonderfully written and well-done story.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and Viking Books for Young Readers in return for an unbiased review. Look for SAY A LITTLE PRAYER in March 2025!! ...more
Her books are so effusive and original. THE GETAWAY LIST is an enjoyable ode to New York City, growing up, and finding yourselI really love Emma Lord.
Her books are so effusive and original. THE GETAWAY LIST is an enjoyable ode to New York City, growing up, and finding yourself. When Riley graduates from high school, she thought she'd have a plan, but she has none. Her mom expects her to stay home over the summer, work at her coffee shop, and go to community college, but when Riley has the chance to visit New York City for the weekend, her visit suddenly turns into... staying. New York City feels like home, like herself, like Riley can finally breathe again. Lord makes us feel like a part of NYC with Riley, bringing the city to life as Riley slowly discovers pieces of herself that she lost while molding herself into the version of Riley that pleased her overbearing mom.
New York also has Tom, Riley's childhood best friend, who moved to the city four years ago. The two expected to see each other often, but when that didn't happen, they developed "The Getaway List," a bucket list of sorts, filled with ideas to keep them connected. Once together, they start knocking items off the list--take a class together, do a run together for the delivery service where Tom works, etc. Riley loves everything about New York, including the fun new group of friends she meets, but she is a bit confused by the new feelings she has for Tom. Falling in love with NYC is one thing; falling in love with Tom is certainly another.
While this is certainly a YA book filled with teen angst and drama, Riley and Tom are mature, and this is such an effervescent and intriguing story. Riley and Tom bonded as children over a time traveling book series, which is woven throughout the book; it's so nerdy and cute, just like them. Like many of Lord's books, this is a romantic story, but also a tale of friendship at its core. She writes about friendship so beautifully, and it's wonderful reading about Riley and Tom's journey.
THE GETAWAY LIST has a bouncy set of ancillary characters who boost the story, from Tom and Riley's other childhood friend, Jesse, who is trying to make it with his band; to Mariella, Tom's cheerful, brilliant tech genius /artistic friend; and Luca, whom Tom and Riley meet at a writing class. This group's new friendship is sweet and touching too. As for Tom and Riley, they do not have overwhelming chemistry, but a deep, calm relationship. Their friendship is the basis for anything more and watching them grow is special in its own way. They are also funny, nerdy, and growing up.
As with any book by Lord, this story is unique, humorous, and entertaining. LIST delves into mother/child relationships, friendships, coming-of-age, and romance with its own special insight. 4+ stars.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and Wednesday Books in return for an unbiased review.
Merged review:
I really love Emma Lord.
Her books are so effusive and original. THE GETAWAY LIST is an enjoyable ode to New York City, growing up, and finding yourself. When Riley graduates from high school, she thought she'd have a plan, but she has none. Her mom expects her to stay home over the summer, work at her coffee shop, and go to community college, but when Riley has the chance to visit New York City for the weekend, her visit suddenly turns into... staying. New York City feels like home, like herself, like Riley can finally breathe again. Lord makes us feel like a part of NYC with Riley, bringing the city to life as Riley slowly discovers pieces of herself that she lost while molding herself into the version of Riley that pleased her overbearing mom.
New York also has Tom, Riley's childhood best friend, who moved to the city four years ago. The two expected to see each other often, but when that didn't happen, they developed "The Getaway List," a bucket list of sorts, filled with ideas to keep them connected. Once together, they start knocking items off the list--take a class together, do a run together for the delivery service where Tom works, etc. Riley loves everything about New York, including the fun new group of friends she meets, but she is a bit confused by the new feelings she has for Tom. Falling in love with NYC is one thing; falling in love with Tom is certainly another.
While this is certainly a YA book filled with teen angst and drama, Riley and Tom are mature, and this is such an effervescent and intriguing story. Riley and Tom bonded as children over a time traveling book series, which is woven throughout the book; it's so nerdy and cute, just like them. Like many of Lord's books, this is a romantic story, but also a tale of friendship at its core. She writes about friendship so beautifully, and it's wonderful reading about Riley and Tom's journey.
THE GETAWAY LIST has a bouncy set of ancillary characters who boost the story, from Tom and Riley's other childhood friend, Jesse, who is trying to make it with his band; to Mariella, Tom's cheerful, brilliant tech genius /artistic friend; and Luca, whom Tom and Riley meet at a writing class. This group's new friendship is sweet and touching too. As for Tom and Riley, they do not have overwhelming chemistry, but a deep, calm relationship. Their friendship is the basis for anything more and watching them grow is special in its own way. They are also funny, nerdy, and growing up.
As with any book by Lord, this story is unique, humorous, and entertaining. LIST delves into mother/child relationships, friendships, coming-of-age, and romance with its own special insight. 4+ stars.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and Wednesday Books in return for an unbiased review....more
Even when doing a retelling, you can always count on Kalynn Bayron's books to be unique and different. Honestly, I either don't know the Snow White stEven when doing a retelling, you can always count on Kalynn Bayron's books to be unique and different. Honestly, I either don't know the Snow White story well or Bayron made a ton of changes, because SLEEP LIKE DEATH was always surprising!
Princess Eve was raised to hate the Knight, a traveling creature who has tormented her Kingdom by granting wishes with a catch; no matter what, they only work out favorably for the Knight in the end. She knows this firsthand; one of her moms, wishing for a beautiful voice, was turned into a bird. Now Eve is catching her other mom, Queen Regina, acting strange, and talking into a looking glass/stone.
I won't lie; some of this book is really weird. I'm okay with that part; pieces of it were rather frustrating, though, and that was more difficult. I certainly wish the LGBTQIA+ angle was stronger beyond Eve's two moms (I mean one is a bird) and some pining. Based on Bayron's other books, there was so much more she could have done here. Instead, Eve has a romance with Nova, a messenger of the Knight, that often feels completely unfounded. They see each other, talk once or twice, and then boom, they are suddenly in love. The lack of connections or reasoning in the story made little sense.
DEATH is stronger when it comes to its allusions to myths and stories. There's a very neat parallel to the Seven Dwarfs and some decent attempts at reversing gender stereotypes from Snow White (some fail, though). The book explores dark magic, often veering deeply into sad and tragic territory--this is certainly not a Disney retelling. It looks at the relationships of mothers and daughters and women in general. Eve's relationship with Queen Regina is complicated; sometimes, you wish everyone in the story would simply communicate more. (Or stop making doomed wishes?)
I enjoyed the story the most when Eve was off exploring and attempting to save her kingdom. This was an interesting retelling, but it seemed like a lot of the connections were missing--not a lot of backstory to the Knight's vengeance, Eve's romance, and more. It's a quick read, but lacking some depth.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and Bloomsbury YA in return for an unbiased review....more
A gorgeous, authentic story of country music and finding yourself
I really enjoyed this one. I am a sucker for stories involving country music, but whA gorgeous, authentic story of country music and finding yourself
I really enjoyed this one. I am a sucker for stories involving country music, but when you add the lesbian romance angle, it's even better. Darren Purchase is seventeen and has loved country music singer Decklee Cassel her entire life. She's crushed when Decklee dies. Decklee's long-awaited time capsule should be revealed at her televised funeral, but instead, it's empty. Soon, she's putting her fans through a series of scavenger-hunt-style clues to track down the capsule and its associated $3M prize. Darren, an aspiring journalist, knows she has a shot at finding the capsule, so she teams up with her co-worker, Kendall, to track it down.
The story alternates between Darren and Kendall searching and following time capsule clues and Decklee Cassel and her journey to fame. Both timelines are captivating, though it's really hard not to be completely pulled in by our enigmatic country star, Decklee. Tracing her path to fame, Decklee's portions cover her friendship and eventual relationship with her songwriter, Mickenlee Hooper. Decklee is a deeply flawed character, mowing over anyone who gets in the way of her path to stardom. This includes a relationship with a woman in the 1970s and 1980s as a country star, and the book does a strong job of exploring the difficulty of two women being together in such a time.
Darren's story parallels Decklee, as she follows time capsule clues that align with Decklee's career. Both Darren and Decklee are from the small town of Mayberry, Arkansas, and Darren clings to the idea that if Decklee got out, so can she. Darren's so focused on getting out of Mayberry that she hasn't taken the time to see what it offers, including a friendship (or more) with Kendall, or the bonuses that small town life offers. She wants to win the money to go to journalism school and help her mom, who has battled cancer.
There's nothing conventional about this book, including its ending, and that's a huge compliment. Decklee and Darren are strongly characterized and individualistic, and Mickenlee is just as nuanced too. Decklee and Mickenlee's story is entrancing, and Kendall and Darren's burgeoning romance is adorable. This is a wonderful story for anyone who loves coming-of-age tales, queer romance, or country music. 4.5 stars.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and Viking Books for Young Readers in return for an unbiased review....more
I will start out by saying that I adore Courtney Gould and will read anything she writes. Her writing is beautiful, original, and a gift for the queerI will start out by saying that I adore Courtney Gould and will read anything she writes. Her writing is beautiful, original, and a gift for the queer community. Even WOODS, which is not my favorite of hers, is well-done.
Devin has spent just a short time in her latest foster home when she's awakened in the night and taken away. She soon learns that her foster parents have sent her to the Revive Wilderness program, a program for troubled youth where a small group of teens spends 50 days in the woods with two counselors. You know, the teens are there against their will, but whatever, right?
Devin clashes immediately with Sheridan, another strong-willed female in the group, but has better luck with Ollie, a lost and troubled soul; the younger Aiden; and religious Hannah. It doesn't take Devin long to realize that things seem off (beyond the forced kidnapping) and soon counselors disappear, the woods seem extra eerie, and more.
This isn't true horror, I don't think, but it sure is creepy and certainly sinister. Gould does a wonderful job of building up the tension. Unfortunately, it takes a while to get to a lot of the scary parts, and they sometimes fizzle out. A huge part of the novel's beginning is spent on the discord between Devin and Sheridan, to the point of repetition and frustration. There's far more focus on interpersonal relationships and the camper's backgrounds than the horror vibes. What does show up is unique and intriguing and often quite spooky.
I especially loved the focus on these wilderness camps, which really do exist, and how they can affect the psyche of already fragile young teens. Also important is Gould's emphasis on queer relationships and her consistently strong portrayal of teens overall. This is a bit of a slow burn, plot-wise, but there's a lot to love here too. 3.5 stars, rounded up.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and Wednesday Books in return for an unbiased review. Look for WOODS on 12/10/2024!!...more
I have complicated feelings about this book, but that's appropriate, as our main character, Marlowe, is a complicated person. One of the best things aI have complicated feelings about this book, but that's appropriate, as our main character, Marlowe, is a complicated person. One of the best things about Serena Kaylor's books is that she writes nuanced characters with various dimensions, and she doesn't shy away from depicting neurodivergent personalities.
I was slow to warm to THE CALCULATION OF YOU AND ME and even considered not finishing it, due to Marlowe's singular focus on her ex, Josh, who breaks up with her at the end of the summer, but leaves enough glimmer of hope (in Marlowe's eyes) so that she pines for him all summer. When he truly ends it (in the chemistry lab, no less) on the first day back at school, she's devastated. Around Josh, Marlowe could feel "normal"--she had friends, she went out on dates and to parties, and she was part of the typical high school experience, much to her parents' relief. Without Josh, she's just weird Marlowe, autistic teen. Even worse, when Josh breaks up with her, he tells her she's not romantic enough, only solidifying her internal monologue that she's not like other girls.
Marlowe turns to fellow student Ash, a loner with whom she's been recently paired on an English project, to teach her about romance. Ash works at a romance bookstore (this town has a bookstore dedicated solely to romance books, which sounds so, so amazing) and while he's reluctant to help, citing pure hatred of Josh, Marlowe wins him over, especially when she helps publicize his band.
What follows is a very touching neurodiverse love story with an exploration of teen autism. It's an ode to romance, as Ash teaches Marlowe about the genre via various novels and then romance experiences (aka dates). One of the best things about the book is the focus on Marlowe's relationship with her friends, who are cute, quirky, and not afraid to be different. There's a diverse cast with queer characters--always appreciated.
While focusing on one thing (or person) is, in fact, a part of Marlowe's autism, her focus on Josh went on too long and the book would have been far more engaging with more Ash. It took 20% of the story to even get to her pact with Ash to learn about romance; with that early 20% focused almost solely on opining about Josh. (And I think it's fair to say that Josh is not worth opining over.) It would have been nice to see Marlowe reach her revelation about Josh's true character a bit earlier, so we could have more Marlowe/Ash time. Any part of the story that looked into Marlowe's relationship with her friends, her family, or her banter with Ash was far more interesting.
The story doesn't always feel deep or substantial, but its exploration of neurodivergence is excellent. This tale would be very appropriate and a good fit for its YA audience. 3.5 stars for me.
I received a copy of this book from Wednesday Books and Netgalley in return for an unbiased review....more
Talia Hibbert's first YA is a really cute romance about two teens finding their way!
Celine Bangura absolutely abhors Bradley Graeme. They were best fTalia Hibbert's first YA is a really cute romance about two teens finding their way!
Celine Bangura absolutely abhors Bradley Graeme. They were best friends as kids, but he left her behind to join the cool crowd. The two are now sworn enemies, competing over grades and school events. So when Celine realizes Bradley is going after the same scholarship as her--one that requires competing in survival courses out in the UK countryside--she's a bit peeved. However, once they're literally stuck in the mud together, the two realize maybe they don't completely hate each other after all?
This is a really sweet book filled with quick wit and Celine and Brad's excellent chemistry and amazing banter. An excellent mix of enemies to lovers and childhood friends, you're immediately drawn to these two, who sometimes seem wise beyond their years and other times like, well, scared teens. CUTE is often simply cute, but also explores serious topics quite well, such as OCD (Brad) and parental abandonment (Celine). These two are truly figuring out how to grow up: what to study at university, how to grapple with your own wants versus your parents, falling in love, and more. I definitely think this story would resonate with the young adult audience, and it's written very well for the age group. I loved the diverse characters, Brad and Celine's funny group of friends, and all the humor. 4 stars.
This is a strange little book. Wilson enters her town's contest to, you know, earn the right to bring someone back from the dead for 30 days. She pickThis is a strange little book. Wilson enters her town's contest to, you know, earn the right to bring someone back from the dead for 30 days. She picks her best friend, Annie, trying to overlook the fact that the two weren't friends at all in the last year of Annie's life. But when she gets Annie "back," she seems to gloss over that fact, falling back with Wilson like the old days and confusing her to no end.
So I'm fine with a book about someone coming back from the dead being quirky; in fact, you'd expect it. Instead, ANNIE LEBLANC seems like a standard YA story about friend drama--it just happens that one of those friends is dead. Nothing seems to happen! Wilson is an OK main character, if a bit in her head, but I didn't even like Annie, or Ryan, the third friend in their trio, or Wilson's mom Jody.
Wilson spends her life being responsible for her mom and her little sister, feeling lonely with no friends after a blow up with Annie and Ryan. The book drags out the reveal of why she and Annie and Ryan fought and it still doesn't make sense. Wilson seems to think she's found a loophole to keep Annie alive, so she works diligently to achieve it, while being rather clueless. Meanwhile, there's a million miscommunications, and it appears as if this gang never once interacted with one another or another human.
I'm glad the story has lesbian/bisexual rep and enjoyed the themes of friendship (albeit awkward ones!) and family, but this plot missed overall for me. 2.5 stars.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and Wednesday Books in return for an unbiased review. ...more
This YA book has much promise and covers so many important topics, but was a bit of a slog for me, thanks to a slightly unlikeable main character and This YA book has much promise and covers so many important topics, but was a bit of a slog for me, thanks to a slightly unlikeable main character and some weird elements that made me uncomfortable. After something terrible happens to her at school, sixteen-year-old Dell and her mom go to stay at the family cabin, which they learn was being used as a dumping ground by their last tenant. Dell's mom asks Ivy, the daughter of her (the mom's) boyfriend to stay with them as well, much to Dell's consternation. Ivy appears confident and outgoing and gets along with Dell's mom--all the things Dell is not.
Set in the 2000s era in rural Ontario, the author outwardly admits QUEEN offers outdated thoughts on bisexuality, but I won't lie, they are still really horrible to read sometimes. Dell is struggling with finding herself and dealing with her sexuality, but she's also just really hateful at points--mean to her mom, mean to Ivy, cruel about other's sexuality, and just a harsh character. She's been through a lot, but she makes herself very hard to like. There's a plotline involving Ivy and Dell that almost crosses the line into icky, even if they aren't related, and again... my main emotion here was uncomfortable!
Add in a bunch of other tangential stories... buried secrets about Dell's family, more stuff about her mom's boyfriend and family, dealing with the literal junk by the lake house: there was a lot going on with this book. It could have benefited from narrowing down some of its focus. My favorite character was Dell's oft-abused but incredibly self-aware BFF, Paul. I'd read a book about Paul! I really appreciated QUEEN's points about identity (once it circled around and stopped bashing bisexuality), parental relationships, and love, but overall, this was a strange read. 3 stars. ...more
Look it's Erin Hahn, just breaking my heart and putting it back together like it's nothing...
Erin Hahn calls this her "sad rodeo" book, and that was Look it's Erin Hahn, just breaking my heart and putting it back together like it's nothing...
Erin Hahn calls this her "sad rodeo" book, and that was definitely true, but it was also a gorgeous love story and a beautiful story about recovering from grief and loss.
Case and Walker grew up best friends, thick as thieves, and working the rodeo circuit together, riding bulls. But all that changed when Walker's chronic illness caught up with him and he died at age 17. Now Case feels adrift in the world without his best friend. Walker leaves behind a list of things he wanted to do--along with items like jumping naked in a pool and winning the buckle on the national rodeo circuit, Case spies "befriend Winnie Sutton." Case never paid much attention to Winnie, who works at his dad's ranch, but knowing that she meant something to Walker changes things.
This book almost made me like horses, which is a huge feat, as I've been scared of them since childhood. But the ranch vibe is lovely, as is Winnie's absolute reverence for the animals with which she works. Winnie's been raising her younger siblings since her Mom split when she was a kid and her Dad checked out. At this point, she can only practice with other people's horses, but she dreams of competitively barrel racing. And dammit, she's good. I fell hard for Winnie, who has the weight of the world on her shoulders, yet remains optimistic and strong for her family. She has no desire to open her heart or depend on anyone and that includes rich, clueless Case.
I love Erin Hahn's writing and she captured Case and Winnie so well. As they slowly open up to each other and start to trust again... it's impossible not to get caught up in their love. There's nothing instant or half baked in this book. The character development is strong, as we watch Winnie struggle to balance family with her own desires and Case attempt to open up after losing his best friend--and figure out what it is he wants to do with his future. If you've ever lost someone you loved and grew up with young, this book will hit hard.
BREAKS perfectly balances dealing with grief with romance. And it expertly mixes in some fun, with the rodeo pieces (and some awesome 90s country references). This is a beautiful and touching story with wonderful characters. 4.5+ stars.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and Wednesday Books in return for an unbiased review....more
The BLACKWOODS explores the legacy left by a strong black woman, Blossom Blackwood, so that her great gThis was a captivating ode to black Hollywood.
The BLACKWOODS explores the legacy left by a strong black woman, Blossom Blackwood, so that her great granddaughters can have agency and choice in their own lives. Blossom dreams of being an actor, but choices are limited when she's growing up. Despite her struggles, she prevails, raising her son, Abe, with the help of her mother and sister, and becoming a well-known actress. Abe eventually becomes a famous actor as well, and now Blossom's granddaughter Ardith is in the acting business too. Spread out among the family are others in Hollywood via lawyers, producers, etc.
This is a story about women told by women--Blossom, Ardith, and the other granddaughter, Hollis. Hollis prefers a more private life--hard when you're a Blackwood--and even more difficult when photos of her are leaked by the press.
I loved the stories about Blossom's past, even though they highlighted so well the racism she experienced on her quest to become an actress. She's a tough and spirited woman, and her character shone through the pages.
Present-day is a bit more lackluster. It takes some time for Ardith and Hollis to become as fully-realized as Blossom. The story is fascinating, though, and draws you into the creative Blackwood clan, their trials, tribulations, and successes. It's a very good look at motherhood and family and the legacy one leaves behind....more
Red Kenny and her friends are headed on a spring break trip in a borrowed RV. It's Red; her best friend Maddy; Maddy's older brother Oliver; friend anRed Kenny and her friends are headed on a spring break trip in a borrowed RV. It's Red; her best friend Maddy; Maddy's older brother Oliver; friend and classmate Simon; Red's secret crush Arthur; and Oliver's girlfriend Renata. On their way, the group gets lost and their RV breaks down in the dark woods with no cell service. Soon they realize they've been trapped there on purpose by someone who wants one of them dead. They have until dawn to escape: six friends, five will survive.
This is one of those rare books I enjoyed more than I thought I would--it's no classic, but it's a fun page-turner of a thriller. It's quite the locked room story, taking place entirely in the RV. There are so many secrets and lies, with tension building as the tale goes on. It's bloody and dark and keeps you guessing as you attempt to work out why everyone is trapped and who could be responsible. Oliver is such a classic bad guy that it's easy to point the finger at him, but there's a surprising amount of suspects. Everything winds up being a bit predictable but I still found this to be an enjoyable and suspenseful quick read. 3.75 stars, rounded up to 4 here. ...more
Dylan grew up with fairly wealthy, albeit divorced, parents and is close to her twin brother. She loves art, and, on the surface, her life seems greatDylan grew up with fairly wealthy, albeit divorced, parents and is close to her twin brother. She loves art, and, on the surface, her life seems great. But she's struggled throughout the years--with ADHD and drinking binges. Lately, she's "losing time," often waking somewhere with no memory of where she is or what she's been doing. When she realizes she's spent three days with a boy named Connor without any memory of it, Dylan knows she has to seek help. She's eventually diagnosed with dissociative identity disorder (DID), which starts to help explain why Dylan feels as if there are voices and people living inside of her head. But the diagnosis is scary and sometimes Dylan isn't sure she can keep going.
I love Kate McLaughlin's books. This one wasn't quite as emotional as some for me--it's beautifully written, of course, as usual, and I definitely felt for Dylan, but it took me quite some time to get sucked into the story, when normally a McLaughlin book is something I read in practically one setting. PIECES has almost a clinical feeling to it; it covers DID so well that it often feels as if we are reading half fiction, half medical tome, especially as Dylan struggles to figure out what is "wrong" with her (I refuse to classify any mental health disorder as something wrong with a person).
However, the story picks up a lot when she is diagnosed. There's still a ton of explanation of DID, but once we get to meet the other people (alters) who make up Dylan's system, the story becomes more meaningful. DID is caused by trauma when the host is young and they splinter into their alters to protect themselves from what happened. Watching Dylan struggle to realize that something terrible happened to her as a child and then show tremendous strength to learn about DID and delve into that incident is pretty amazing. She's a very strong character and McLaughlin also does an excellent job of giving Dylan's many alters their own personalities as well, as we sometimes get their POV as well.
If this all sounds a little weird, it's really not. The book is very well-done and presented quite well. Dylan struggles to have a relationship with Connor, who turns out to be a remarkably nice person. She has a mom who wants what is best for her and a twin who feels jealous at the attention she receives. I do think some of this story was presented a bit through rose-colored glasses (and McLaughlin even acknowledges that in her author's note): Dylan has a boyfriend who is fully accepting, a family who supports her, and the financial resources to seek treatment. It may not be the most realistic portrayal of DID around. But it's certainly eye-opening, and I believe thoughtfully done (no shame, no mocking).
This is a quiet novel, with the only real plot Dylan's diagnosis and her working through to discover the source of her trauma. It's very dark at times, with a huge set of trigger warnings* (see the bottom of this review). But it's compelling and fascinating and well-done, with McLaughlin's typical laser focus on a topic.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and Wednesday Books in return for an unbiased review.
Yamilet Flores and her younger brother, Cesar, are headed to a new school--a very white, very wealthy Catholic school. Yami does not look forward to bYamilet Flores and her younger brother, Cesar, are headed to a new school--a very white, very wealthy Catholic school. Yami does not look forward to being one of the few Mexican kids at the school, but she'd do anything for her brother, a great student who was being bullied at their last school. Besides, she's glad to leave behind her ex-best friend who outed her and made her life miserable. Her new goals are to keep Cesar out of trouble and to appear straight. But the latter is pretty difficult when Yami meets Bo, the one openly queer girl at her new school. Bo is smart, funny, talented, and really cute. Yami knows her mom will kick her out if she comes out--but she really, really likes Bo.
This is a really powerful and moving story led by Yami's unique voice. It starts out a little slow and seemed like it might get mired in being too melodramatic and YA, but it picks up very quickly.
I loved sweet Yami and Cesar, Bo, and all their friends. My heart went out to Yami and Cesar, struggling as kids of color and Yami working through her sexuality. The book did a really good job of showing how hard it is for teens who do not have a supportive structure at home--and how truly terrifying it can be to be gay or bi without parental support and love. The fear of being kicked out for so many teens is real, as is being bullied and hurt.
GUIDE did a wonderful job being true to Yami and Cesar's culture and showing how isolated they felt at school. There's also a wonderful plot with Bo, who is adopted, and grappling with how her parents are handling her own native culture. I really loved how the book dealt with so many serious topics. At some times, it felt like maybe it had picked too many topics, but it really does a good job overall.
This is a brutal book to read at points. There is a trigger warning for mental health and suicide. GUIDE is not afraid to get into heavy topics, but it also makes a point that these subjects are ones that gay teens are dealing with every single day of their lives.
Overall, this is a really amazing book. I loved Yami, Cesar, and Bo. I wish the story had not wrapped up quite so easily--I'm not sure how realistic that was--but I really loved it nonetheless. 4.5 stars. ...more
Penny and Tate have always been in each other's lives, thanks to their best friend moms. But Penny's mom, Lottie, checked out once Penny's father diedPenny and Tate have always been in each other's lives, thanks to their best friend moms. But Penny's mom, Lottie, checked out once Penny's father died. And Anna, Tate's mom, has battled cancer and is now facing another illness. When Lottie offers Anna part of her liver to help, the girls are thrust together even more, as the families will be moving in together to facilitate everything. The only problem: Penny and Tate seem to nearly kiss when in intense situations. What will happen when they live in the same house?
This is way more than the lighthearted YA love story that the title gives off. It's a gorgeous yet oft-heartbreaking examination of grief, trauma, mental health, healthcare, friendship, parenting, and more. Penny and Tate are real, flawed characters who have been dealt a terrible hand in life and are just trying to survive.
The book is told in a back and forth format--the present day focuses on Anna and Lottie's operations and the aftermath. In the past, we examine all of Penny and Tate's important moments--and near kisses. We see two girls struggling to get by in a rural, small town. There's Penny, who is coping after having lost her beloved father in a terrible way--and then losing her mother to grief as well. And Tate, who has spent most of her life worrying about her sick mom. Both have taken on the burden of caring for their family, the finances, and more. Luckily, they have one strong figure in Penny's gran, Marion, who is a wonderful lady.
Every character in this story flies up from the page, thanks to Sharpe's writing which... there are no words, really. The writing in this book is vivid, stunning, and painful. This is one of the best written books--it's strong and gorgeous with tension and heartbreak searing across every page.
Overall, this is a beautiful story of two girls trying to find their way in the world--and to find love. It's amazing, and I highly recommend it for teens and adults alike. 4.5 stars.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and Little, Brown Books in return for an unbiased review. ...more
Maya and Skye are going on the reality show Second-Chance Romance for various reasons. The show centers on Jordy--a "royal" by a few degrees thanks toMaya and Skye are going on the reality show Second-Chance Romance for various reasons. The show centers on Jordy--a "royal" by a few degrees thanks to his sister marrying a prince--who is going to reunite with his exes on television. Maya is hurting since she and Jordy dated; he went to Canada and cheated on her with Skye. Skye, a worldly traveler who is typically cautious with her own heart, had no idea about Maya, but still feels pain from her own breakup with Jordy.
This was a strange one. I always want to get behind any sort of LGBTQIAP+ story, for sure. This is billed as a teen/YA story, but it focuses on a bunch of girls on a reality show trying to win back their ex--all of which seemed a little old for YA, even if these girls were fairly young. There's already the ick factor of a bunch of women trying to win back a vapid guy who clearly has a bunch of exes and who doesn't seem like a particularly good person.
I wanted to root for Skye and Maya to get together, of course--who doesn't love the idea of the women falling for each other on the show instead of the featured cad? Sadly, there isn't a lot of character development in how the two develop their relationship. At first, they hate each other due to misunderstandings. Then they are together due to proximity. Then, viola, a relationship? Maya is tough to empathize with due to her focused hatred on Jordy and desire for revenge; I liked Skye a bit more. Jordy came across as almost too much of a 1-D villain. There wasn't a lot to work with here. The other girls competing had their moments, but it was hard to tell them apart sometimes. There was so much drama about Jordy that I found myself rolling my eyes.
I am a huge sap, so I liked the ending, which is why my rating is bumped up a little. Still, I wished I had seen more growth in Maya throughout the story.
I received a copy of this book from Wednesday Books and Netgalley in return for an unbiased review....more
Nancy Springer has once again given us a peek into the clever mind of Enola Holmes, the younger, eagerThanks to my wife Kate for this guest review! :)
Nancy Springer has once again given us a peek into the clever mind of Enola Holmes, the younger, eager, and (more?) talented sister of the notable Sherlock Holmes. Her adventures in Elegant Escapade continue to highlight her precocious nature and ingenious insight into solving mysteries.
Seeking to visit her best friend, Lady Cecily, Enola finds Cecily confined to her rooms by her father, Sir Eustace. Enola assists Cecily with her grande escape - only to have Lady Cecily slip away and go on the run alone!
With Sherlock’s help, Enola begins to unravel the sordid details of Sir Eustace’s past and figure out ways to use the information to finally free Lady Cecily.
As always, Springer does a magnificent job highlighting Enola’s incredible investigative skills and finding ways to show that her keen problem solving skills match (if not exceed) her brother’s. A fun, fast, read from beginning to end.
We received a copy of this book from Netgalley and Wednesday Books in return for an unbiased review. ...more
I found this one to be very suited to its YA audience (usually I'm a sucker for anything YA). It tells the story of Iris, who is slotted in the "poor"I found this one to be very suited to its YA audience (usually I'm a sucker for anything YA). It tells the story of Iris, who is slotted in the "poor" and "smart" category and Alice, who is placed in the "rich" and "wild" category. They unite to solve the murder of their classmate, Brooke, who was one of Alice's friends, until Alice was ostracized for disappearing for a few days and sending the town into a frenzy. Brooke also stole Alice's boyfriend and the two were no longer friends. I didn't really understand how Alice's strange disappearance added anything to the plot. The outcome was fairly easy to guess, but boy, we were thrown a lot of red herrings. There are some good messages (but note the trigger warning) about domestic violence. The Agatha Christie references and witty banter between Alice and Iris were my favorite. 3.5 stars.
