Review: You Have a Match by Emma Lord

You Have a Match by Emma Lord

Published by: Wednesday Books
Released on: January 12 2021 (In the US), March (in AUS)
ISBN: 9781250237309

Read: 4 – 7 January 2021

This is Emma Lord’s second novel. I didn’t read Tweet Cute, but would often see positive and complementary reviews of it crossing my Goodreads updates.

You Have a Match didn’t disappoint. It is my favourite kind of contemporary young adult novel, with a complicated plot, interweaving many layers and themes, while still maintaining a witty romantic tone. The central focus sees main character Abby discover she has a secret full-blooded sister 18 months older. Adjacent to that is her seemingly unrequited crush on her best friend Leo, and a drop in her academic results, partly due to the grief of losing her grandfather, someone who saw her, and listened to her and encouraged her passion for photography.

When new sister Savannah appears as someone put together and totally in charge, Abby’s self-confidence dips even further. Her parents, usually too busy dealing with her three younger rambunctious brothers, have turned their focus on her grades, and she feels much pressure to excel, and its this stress and uncertainty about her future that prompts her to keep Savvy a secret a bit longer and head off on summer camp, pretending she is going to be studying for SATs when in reality, it’s a chance to try to explore her relationship with Savvy and the circumstances of their situation.

Look, there were times when Abby made poor choices of which I was not a fan. Camp brings with it many surprises, one of these being Leo, (a budding chef), and a chance to work on that friendship and hopefully develop it into something more. But of course, miscommunication is the key here, and they spend a lot of time not talking, which is a pity, but which also builds the tension. Another camper, Finn enables Abby’s impulsive tendencies and this in turn jeopardises Abby’s friendship with Savannah. As I say, it’s complicated and (my other favourite word) messy. There’s a lot more that could be said about other characters like Connie and Victoria, the wonders of social media, and the gorgeous dog, but I think I will leave you to discover them for yourselves.

The drama builds, as we speculate on Savvy’s adoption, secrets are revealed, and insights gained. I immersed myself completely in Abby’s voice and sympathized with her, while also holding her accountable for her actions. Towards the end, it becomes a lot more about their parents, which is definitely an important contribution to the story. There’s fun to be had while Abby discovers things about herself and how she relates to others, and I am pleased to report the resolutions are satisfying and tie up most loose ends nicely.

Thanks to Wednesday Books and Netgalley for an advanced copy. Highly recommended to fans of Emery Lord, Jenn Bennett and Sarah Dessen. It’s modern, twisty and inclusive. Savvy’s gay status doesn’t even raise an eyebrow. I am so glad Australia audiences will have easy access by March.

You Have a Match is available now in the US.

Review: Defending the Galaxy by Maria V Snyder

Defending the Galaxy (Sentinels of the Galaxy #3) by Maria V Snyder

Published by HQ Young Adult – AU
Released on December 2 2020
ISBN 9781489252784

Read 9 – 12 December 2020

This is the first time in a long while where I have been unable to review a Netgalley book before its release date, and believe me! I feel all the remorse. Funny that, considering how small an audience this blog has, and how little my reviews contribute. But no matter. My Catholic guilt doesn’t discriminate.

I loved the first two books in this series, and having reviewed the second one a year ago here, I can see that I would be gushing about all the same elements: Ara’s growth, her ability to do what’s right not what’s easy, and the fast-paced action. This book just bulldozes through a number of complex plot points, some insightful considerations about the way humans treat technology and anything in fact that they can bend to their will, as well as some great family dynamics and the love story. Aah Niall, you are a true treasure: trusting, supportive and patient.

At the end of book 2, Ara’s connection to the Q-net is complete. Her bond and musings with the sentient being make for thoughtful and witty conversations. Q helps Ara navigate the obstacles, the bad guys and the whole galaxy, and it really feels like she is only 17. Continuously referred to as ‘junior officer’, readers never forget that she is low on every scale. When Ming pulls out the mother card and Ara is grounded, teen readers will observe an interesting stand off. Ara has been living by herself, training as a security officer, and yet she acquiesces to her mother’s worry and protective behaviour, demonstrating her maturity and her understanding of her parents’ feeling. But secretly, she continues to help her teammates and the human race, so much of her rebellious nature persists.

Jarren and his cronies are revealed in more detail: their motivation, their goals and their process. The HoLFs remain scary and a very clever enemy. Their attacks constantly create tension and suspense. While Ara’s abilities often seem to solve everything, she does have to work for the rewards — just trying to get the head honchos on board is a mammoth task in itself.

This is a highly satisfying conclusion to an action packed sci fi series. Recommended to any fans of this authors’ work, and to readers who enjoyed series such as Marissa Meyer’s Renegades, and Claudia Grey’s Constellations. Thanks to Netgalley and Harlequin Teen for advanced copy.

Released (in Australia) on December 2nd.

Review: The Camino Club by Kevin Craig

The Camino Club by Kevin Craig

Published by Duet Books
Released on 6 October 2020 (In the US)
ISBN 9781945053979

Read 26 – 27 September 2020

This is a road trip of a different kind. We follow an eclectic group of teenagers — a little bit delinquent, a little bit neglected, and a lot in need of empathy  — across a section of the Camino Way, a route travelled by pilgrims, through Spain for many centuries. Researching this journey, I discovered that there are quite a few different routes a tourist can choose. Our young Canadians travel from Ponferrada to Santiago de Compostela, (see map below) walking many kilometres a day through amazing landscapes and historic villages, and not for fun, or as part of a school trip. These kids are strangers to each other before they begin what is basically a punishment as a consequence of their (relatively low-level) offenses. It was this or go into Juvenile detention. Not much choice, really, and for one of them, it’s actually on his bucket list!

Picture: https://solitachapter.wordpress.com/2013/04/20/camino-de-santiago-by-solita-chapter-p-r-o-g-r-a-m-a/

Trent, the bucket list offender, is one of three narrative threads, and I think I enjoyed his feisty, no filter, unapologetic voice the most. As an out and proud gay young man, Trent has struggled, yet he remains vibrant and optimistic, and shows a generous big heart. The other two points of view are Diego, a Latino boy raised by his single mother and Abuela, and Shania (not Twain, thank you very much!) a hot headed angry young woman, mostly unlikeable at the start, who develops a crush on Diego, (which, you’ll be pleased to know, is returned).

There are three other teenagers on the pilgrimage – Claire, Manny and Greg – but we only view them through the eyes of the other kids. This means we don’t really get to know them as well. Right at the beginning, Manny and Diego joke about being like The Breakfast Club crowd (hence the pronouncement ‘The Camino Club’), and it is actually a little bit like that: They are a range of ethnicities, with different socio economic backgrounds (& crimes), but ultimately, it is the ways in which they are similar that paves the way to find common ground and bond.

The Camino Clubbers are supervised by Gilbert and Meagan, a pair of counsellors, who keep them on the path (literally), but who are also there as guides and mentors. I can understand the role they are meant to play, but I was disappointed that readers are not given more of these interactions on the page. We are told that the eight of them will assemble at least once a day to share their experiences, unburden their troubles, presumably to develop a group bond. But the focus on encounters between two or three of the group at any one time means that a lot of their individual growth happens through these smaller dialogues, with the group bond developing almost incidentally. Craig also introduces a character called Bastien, an old man who joins them and acts as a parental figure, and while he is genuine, warm-hearted and responsible for many of my tears, I think he diminishes the roles of Gil and Meagan.

I enjoyed walking along these trails with these troubled teenagers. It becomes clear that they have had tough lives, through absent or narrow-minded parents, and through bullying and societal expectations. While it takes them a while (some more than others. I am looking at you Greg!) to face their actions and take responsibility, it’s also hard to imagine that such a trip wouldn’t have a profound effect. The community of pilgrims is tangible, and the demonstration of kindness and inclusivity is palpable, so their eyes are opened up to a world that’s bigger than themselves. They see their behaviours as they are: selfish and reckless, and are challenged to be better. They know now that there are others who have their back. This little group is strong and by the end of the book, we understand they will be okay, especially if they continue to support each other through difficult times.

Thanks to Duet Books and Netgalley for the advanced copy. I have not been lucky enough to journey along the Camino Way, so I loved living vicariously through Trent, Diego and Shania. Recommended for readers who love their protagonists damaged but not broken, who are interested in seeing new places, and who love snarky sometimes shouty conversation. I haven’t mentioned it, but there is also grief here, but the healing is strong with the growth of characters an important part of the story.

Review: The Extraordinaries by TJ Klune

The Extraordinaries by TJ Klune

Published by Tor Teen
Released on 14 July 2020
ISBN 9781250203656

Read 8 – 9 July 2020

Klune’s first foray into YA fiction is a bold exuberant celebration of all things queer and geeky. There is a big nod to lots of fun pop cultural elements: fan fiction and superheroes; but as well there is an intense emotional arc that, while swerving a little too close to sentimental, also reflects a strong sense of questioning identity for young people—am I good enough the way I am?

Nick is on a bunch of spectrums. He’s ADHD, a total geek boy, a totally gay geek boy, and the grief from his mother’s death hangs over him like a heavy cloud. His very supportive father is an adorable inclusion into the narrative as a person who tries hard to protect Nick, while giving him freedom, but also demanding more. Because Nick’s inability to filter himself, his reckless, impulsive side is sometimes a bit scary. It’s not that he’s thoughtless. His brain is just wired to ignore consequences and sometimes makes dangerous decisions that should scare most people.

Luckily, Nick is surrounded by loyal and straight-talking friends. Couple Jazz and Gibby tell him when he is taking things too far and follow him down erratic pathways. His best friend Seth has been missing in action over the summer, and now back at school, Nick is struggling to reconnect with this boy who has long been his secret crush (not helped by Nick writing a lot of slightly smutty fan fic about an Extraordinary called Shadow Star). Klune throws us straight into the middle of this complex relationship without giving all the backstory. He also includes Nick’s ex-boyfriend Owen, who is full of himself and incredibly hostile towards Seth. This dynamic is clearly more than what’s happening on page, and unfortunately for us, Nick’s oblivious narrative voice means we are constantly seeking out clues (which admittedly are dropped often), while he remains ignorant of what’s really going on with this pair of frenemies.

Nick puts himself at the centre of everything. This becomes tiresome, but since he is also very self-aware, he is able to keep readers on side, and our sympathy for him usually comes out ahead of our irritation at his antics and selfishness. But this is Klune very cleverly manipulating us and teasing us by incorporating the superhero elements of the story.

Look, I know I am a bit confusing. But that actually is the structure of the book. We are initially baffled by Nick’s obsession with Shadow Star. We can see Seth is right in front of Nick, and yet Nick lives in the clouds looking through a lens that is idealized and somewhat tainted. We keep reading because basically Klune is a very funny, geeky dude who constantly surprises with the jokes and the humanity and the affection he has for his characters.

And then everything starts to click, and the tension ramps up, and suddenly we are in the middle of a very suspenseful scenario and people could die people! So, we read on, worried for everyone, but especially our earnest, impulsive ordinary guy who without powers, takes on a hero’s journey because he must save those he loves, and he does it all with wit and intelligence, and a tiny spark of what the #$*? It’s extraordinary (gah, she had to go there). The resolution is nicely wrapped up, most mysteries are explained, and of course there’s a HEA…

Then, because this is book one, Klune shoves one more twisty dark secret at us, and leaves us with our mouths open, eyes twitching, hearts racing, and our minds ticking. *Shakes fist at the sky* Damn you Klune and your cliff-hangers. But this might just be me. Ha.

Thanks to Netgalley and Tor Teen for advancing this to me oh so long ago before #coronavirus, and through a delay of publication. I hope it all goes well for this book. Recommended for teens who love their protagonists awkward and flawed, but who is all heart. The intense moments are powerful and authentic, and the story dances around a number of genres. It’s a celebration of life and love, and it looks like there will be more. The Extraordinaries finally comes out tomorrow.

Review: Infinity Son (Infinity Cycle #1) by Adam Silvera

Infinity Son by Adam Silvera

Published by Simon & Schuster
Released on 14 January 2020
ISBN 9781471191565

Read 9 – 10 January 2020

Adam Silvera has built a strong following of fans due to his diverse characters and strong writing. His gay boys express feelings, have genuine, complicated lives, and his plots are original. So far, they have all been situated in contemporary settings, although the magic realism aspects of They Both Die at the End should have clued us into his interest in writing a broader range of genres.

There is no doubt that Infinity Son is fantasy, superhero and magical. Readers are dropped straight into this alternate world and have to do the hard work figuring out the rules and the state of the nation (hint: it’s not good). There are many elements that will be familiar – social media platforms are integral, as are the boroughs of New York, and the political manipulation of the public to allow those in power to retain and increase their control.

However, once terms like, ‘celestials’, ‘spectres’ and ‘The Blackout’ are thrown around, we quickly realise we aren’t in Kansas anymore, Dorothy! Silvera has created a world where some people come into their powers, usually because of a genetic family line, and manifest in recognisable ways—telekinesis, flight or healing—but they can also be in the form of magical creatures’ powers—hydras, phoenixes, or dragons—and the range of ability and power is explored with great detail.

But of course humans once again prove we can’t have nice things because ordinary jealous people decide to experiment with actual magical creatures’ blood and create the ability to become powerful through consuming these ingredients, and the world is divided between those who believe it’s okay to kill these beautiful beings for human desires, and those that don’t.

Emil and Brighton, twin brothers, very different, both longed for powers when they were young, but now, turning 18, it’s only Brighton who still wishes and believes they will manifest. Emil just wants to survive a world that is increasingly violent and uncertain. He observes the disintegrating society with disquiet and fear, while Brighton uses every opportunity of chaos to build his social media influence. Silvera sneakily comments on our growing addiction to everything virtual, and it’s not a pleasant reflection on us at all.

The narrative drive develops quickly and we have barely come to come up for air, as Email and Brighton are continually pushed to their limits, and most telling of all, the growing divide between their reaction to the events that consume them. It transpires that they look at the world through completely different lenses, and it’s also very clear that they do have each other’s backs and continue to rally for each other, even when everything descends into even more madness.

The concluding chapters are very thrilling and not everyone is safe. Another aspect to this novel is the large number of secondary characters who become important and all have their own personalities and agendas. This means it’s difficult to tell who we should be cheering for, and who will live, but this also serves to create a real community who may or may not survive. If we invest in these people, we might find ourselves not very happy at all. Be warned, the cliff hanger ending will infuriate. I don’t know why I believed this was a duology, but it’s not. There will be (at least?) three books.

Thanks to Netgalley and Simon & Schuster for the advanced copy. I found it compelling, but also a bit confusing. Everything happens quickly, and I kept hoping for more downtime to reflect on events and wanted them to have more time to plan. But alas, not to be. Also, the romance elements are small, but of course, who has time to fall in love with the fate of the whole world nearing crisis point. Recommended for readers who love LGBTQIA characters fitting into the world order, and who can help save the world. There are a lot of magical and mystical elements and gorgeous creatures who need rescuing. The brothers’ love for each other is highly visible, but that also foreshadows a darker conclusion that will be spotted by keen speculators. Infinity Son is due out today.

Ten Books One Decade

Putting myself out there to share my highlights of a decade of reading #loveozya novels. These were originally posts on my Instagram and Litsy feeds from Dec 28 to Jan 6.

Tenbooksonedecade

2010

I cannot remember 2010. I was working in a secondary boys’ library and had already been there for 4 years. Enough to feel comfortable. I remember @childrensbookdaily had talked me into returning to uni to complete a Masters of Ed. ‘We need to update our degrees’. Sigh. I only got through one semester because I knew taking on the role of Qld Judge for the #cbcaawards would mean I would be reading (and not much else). I read over 400 books that year, and nearly as many the following.

Melina Marchetta’s return to the world of Francesca and her buddies completely bowled me over—emotional nuance, messy family, and the story of Tom. Shockingly real. I could have picked Marchetta for about four of my years, so it’s only right she’s my first pick of the decade.

2011

While The Piper’s Son didn’t win OR category, my pick for 2011 did. It would be remiss of me not to select at least one Scot Gardner book. His writing over the last 15 years reflect much of the change in YA trends. His male protagonists are often lost (literally), certainly flawed, but always deserve the opportunities to put their lives in order. I especially appreciate that romantic love isn’t a major concern and that friendship, identity and family are strong and welcome features of Gardner’s themes.

The Dead I Know features Aaron, a young man looking for a role model, searching for answers, and the simmering thread of violence is always lurking, ready to pull him into a darker world. Luckily his apprenticeship with John gives him the sense of security and stability he needs. Big shout out to Sparrow (2017) and Changing Gear (2018), which both challenge toxic masculinity norms.

2012

My oldest son slacked his way through Year 12, and I spent the year carting him to gymnastic training and events, choral and orchestra rehearsals and performances, and I took a deep breath after judging for two years, stepping down from reading over 80 #loveozya novels to only 29. Jaclyn Moriarty released a fantasy novel that started the quirky, original warm-hearted series, The Colours of Madeleine which I completely embraced.

Her two lovely main characters, Elliot and Madeleine, swapping letters through a tear between their two worlds, show feisty tenacity, kindness and courage. They are clever novels seemingly light and witty, but that are actually and ultimately multi-layered and terrifically insightful. Her work continues to speak to ordinary people with extraordinary imaginations and startling inner lives. I love everything she writes.

2013

Confession Time: I didn’t read The First Third until 2017. After I read The Sidekicks. After I had conversed with Will. After I left my boys’ school library, where I had pitched it and promoted it. All I can say to 2013 me is what the hell? I didn’t miss the hype. I watched it receive both critical and popular acclaim. All my peers lauded it and the kids loved it and when I finally read it, I accepted its greatness. The First Third is a perfect blend of humour and emotion. Will treats his audience with respect, and he does not pander or preach.  Will is a person of many opinions and a marketing acumen I envy. His stories are authentic, his style is his own, and I can’t wait to see what else he has for us.

Special mention to my other favs: Wildlife by Fiona Wood, Life in Outer Space by Melissa Keil and Girl Defective by Simmone Howell.

2014

II went back to study part-time in 2014. My younger son completed Year 12 at the same school as me, both pressures making it a difficult time. Probably the reason why I only read about 24 #loveozya novels. Having said that, I actually predicted 5 of the 6 OR shortlisted books that year (#humblebrag), so there’s that.

The Protected explores grief in exquisite and infinite sharpness. Hannah’s pain is raw and real. Conversing with her dead sister Katie creates unbearable connection. Her parents’ absence is understandable, yet also unforgivable, and it’s astonishing the relief we feel when Hannah starts talking to Anna. Josh’s appearance brings much needed sunshine to what is in essence of story about confronting death and accepting loss. Claire Zorn is an assured, master storyteller. I hope we don’t lose her entirely to the picture book genre.

Other favourites of 2014 include Intruder by Christine Bongers, Are you Seeing Me? by Darren Groth and Tigerfish by David Metzenthen.

2015

This was my most difficult year professionally. I found myself without a job in August, just in time to sort my youngest son into Calvary basic training a week before his 18^th birthday. That and study kept me from despair and trauma. Finding a new job after turning 50 seemed an impossible dream. I only read 18 #loveozya novels, but the highlight was Fiona’s third book in the aptly named Six Impossiverse trilogy, Cloudwish. There was something elusive and mercurial about Van Uoc’s inner voice, such a contrast to her external presentation – wild versus compliant, risky versus accepting, bold versus quiet. She’s a rare find.

Just as important as Fiona’s writing skills, is the fierce support she offers other Australian authors and to the YA community at large through her thoughtful examinations of books and trends. She promotes diversity and inclusivity, and I have gained insights every time I hear her speak.

Other notable mentions of 2015 for me are A Single Stone by Meg McKinlay, The Flywheel by Erin Gough and Lili Wilkinson’s Green Valentine.

2016

I found validation and purpose this year when Pauline from Riverbend Books asked me to read for RSO. I will be ever grateful for her confidence in me. I continue to read for this amazing service – I mean come on; someone asks me to read YA! #luckyandgrateful I also completed my MEd (Knowledge Networks and Digital Innnovations) while I started the process of becoming a supply/relief teacher.

This was a tough year to pick from the 36 novels I read. Three high quality stories, all exploring grief over the unexpected tragic loss of a loved one, could easily have been the one, but two authors have already had other books highlighted (demonstrating their mastery), but on top of that, Cath Crowley’s Words in Deep Blue also focused on books! And bookshops! And the power of words! And included swoony Henry! So, winner. I love this book so much.

The other two excellent #loveozya novels for me in 2016 are One Would think the Deep by Claire Zorn and The Sidekicks by Will Kostakis.

2017

If I thought 2016 was a difficult year to pick a best book, 2017 has been even harder. I read 45 #loveozya books through my ongoing association with RSO and was able to spend significant time looking after other people’s lovely libraries. This made me realise that being able to share my love of teen novels was still something I wanted to do. But I was also asked to speak at several network meetings, PD events, and I started to believe that I would be able to fill my time valuable by helping other library staff. I started applying more seriously for full time work, but also started to formulate a possible plan b. And was less stressed, less anxious.

But back to the wonderful books of 2017. How do I pick between some of the amazing books that were released this year? I could easily select any one of ten books, and if you want to see them all, go here. I made a ridiculous number of lists, two specifically related to Australian YA.

The book I ultimately chose, Because of You by Pip Harry rates highly for a number of reasons. I am going to go back one of many ravs about this book to try to explain… Harry’s inclusive and diverse cast of minor characters carries a subtle message about stereotyping and judging others. The tone is warm and gentle, but the subject matter is harsh and uncomfortable. However, readers aren’t made to feel pity or guilt. Instead they are inspired by the way individuals rise to the challenge to help others… It’s an astonishingly powerful story.

2018

In a year of Lenny (Book of Everything), Merrick (Changing Gear), and Ana and Jono (from Between Us), it is the protagonist of The Learning Curves of Vanessa Partridge who stays with me most of all. I apparently read 49 #loveozya novels this year, helped by me judging the Young Adult category of the Qld Premier’s Literary Awards. Vanessa’s intellectual curiosity about her sexuality and her navigation through unwanted advances was a highlight. The novel also covered environmental issues, parental mental health, and authentic friendships. I loved every complicated, messy thing about it!

This year I returned to a library on a part time basis. It was a perfect re-introduction back to school, and I settled into a rhythm of juggling a number of roles—I haven’t really mentioned my active involvement in CBCA Qld, and this year, I took on President of the Branch, in a year where we hosted the Shortlist and Winner announcement functions. I really fluked it in, because Jenny Stubbs’s team did the work, and I got to be the front line of the credit taking. Seriously, Qld achieves way beyond its means in these spaces. Such a great year!!

2019

This was a tough year – health issues, death of my dad, and returning to work full time meant I was often stressed. However, some new good things happened too – Rhianna Patrick (@ABCRhi) invited me to be a regular on her radio book chat panel and that has been such good fun. Another year as Qld Branch president, a trip to Canberra for the National CBCA conference and judging the Qld Lit Awards kept me involved in kids’ lit while school encouraged me to learn more about coding and programing (eek). There were fewer YA novels released, but more MG, and I have many opinions about that.

This is How We Change the Ending represents Vikki Wakefield’s contribution to YA this decade. Starting with her debut novel. All I Ever Wanted in 2011, all five novels reflect a genuine representation of Australian teens—their desires, their fears, and their triumphs. Her latest sub-verts our expectations and challenges us all to listen to the teens in our lives and support them to find their best selves.

I also completed loved It Sounded Better in My Head by Nina Kenwood.  

So farewell to the short-sighted twenty-teens. May we all save the planet in the twenty-twentys!

Review: We Used to be Friends by Amy Spalding

We Used to Be Friends by Amy Spalding

Published by: Amulet Books
Released on January 7, 2020 (in the US)
ISBN: 9781419738661

Read: December 28 – 30, 2020

Amy Spalding is a great author. I have read almost all of her lighter, romantic comedies such as Kissing Ted Callaghan (2015) and The Reese Malcolm List (2013), and always enjoyed her fully developed characters and those awkward but often hilarious scenarios that were easy to relate to. Her latest novel We Used to Be Friends, takes a more serious approach to what is often treated as a sub-plot in many YA contemporaries—the friendship between two teenage girls.

James and Kat have been friends forever. But it’s easy to see right from the start, that they are very different people—James is a runner, introverted committed to her five-year plan. Kat is outgoing, popular, living day to day. Her mother died a few years back and her older brother is now away at college, and she just wants the best senior year experience she can have. James, an only child, is the offspring of high school sweethearts and as we start the novel, everything is about to unravel.

We read Kat’s story from the beginning of senior year, right through to leaving home for college. Arriving home after summer break, Kat’s boyfriend confesses to cheating on her ‘because (he) was bored’… and …’it meant nothing’… Dumping him will result in huge changes, including meeting a vivacious girl (so, actually I am bi? Okay then), changing lunch tables and broadening her social circle.

But before we meet Kat, we hear James’s narrative voice. And she begins at the end. She is about to head off to her chosen college, her friendship with Kat is over, and as she leaves her house with her father, she asks if they can drop in to visit mum before we go… what the? It’s all topsy‑turvey. And from there, alternately, we are with Kat as she moves forward to the end of senior year and move backwards with James to the beginning.

I felt more sympathy towards James’s plight, but feel I received more information about Kat’s. Clearly the backwards timeline didn’t satisfy as much especially because there’s a strong sense of anxiety growing as we get closer to the disaster that occurs to completely overwhelm her. Kat’s acceptance of her true sexual orientation and of the new woman in his father’s life never feel as tumultuous as James’s situation. As well, as is reflective of James’s nature, her voice is starker, more direct and not as emotional. Whereas Kat shares and shares (and shares).

There are many gaps in a narrative like this, which I very much appreciate and admire. It’s the author’s skill that allows readers to follow the threads and fill in spaces, and I like a book that keeps me actively engaged. While some might not want to work that hard, rewards are there for people who persist. Of course, my bug bear is again on display—a book like this is much better as a print copy. I wanted to flick back through James’s section when I finally reached Kat’s versions, and sometimes it was impossible to find the corresponding bit (Did James talk about prom? It’s a crucial element of Kat realising how far she and James had lost their way, and I wanted to review James’s input, and no amount of searching took me there).

Thanks to Netgalley and publisher for this advanced copy. Highly recommended for readers who want more depth about non-romantic relationships. While both girls’ love interests play a part, the focus is on the breakdown of James and Kat’s inability to reach out to each other when their own world view shifts significantly. It’s a mature read, with discussions about sex and underage drinking at parties. Bisexuality is representative positively, and diversity is strong and convincing. We Used to be Friends is released in the US on January 7. I hope we see it here in Australia soon.

Review: Any Means Necessary by Candice Montgomery

Any Means Necessary by Candice Montgomery

Published by: Page Street Kids

Released: October 8, 2019 (in the US)

ISBN: 9781624147999

Read: October 6, 2019

I seem to like to pick these books that offer diverse characters. Torrey is a black, gay boy and bloody heck, has his life been tough. We are thrown right in the deep end (just as he is). He has just arrived at his college campus and he receives a phone call from his beloved Aunt Lisa telling him the land on which his bees reside is about to be taken from him due to unpaid land taxes.

There are so many backstories and family threads that Torrey weaves between his narrative of now and present. Sad but realistic situations involving his bed-bound mother (due to a coma), his deceased uncle Miles and his narrow-minded grandfather Theo (one of the reasons the taxes have not been paid). These flow in and out of his worries. One thing, Torrey is an over thinker, a worrier, a boy who burdens the problems of the world. So really, he’s an achiever. He gets things done. But this, it’s way out of his league. Luckily, he has CAKE—four STEM girls, black girls, loyal friends—with knowledge and connections he draws on to try to find a way to keep his bees.

Torrey’s voice is full of modern slang and acronyms. Sometimes I felt quite old, unable to take meaning even with context and a solid vocabulary. But that’s ok. I am old. Younger, hippier and edgier readers will immerse themselves completely in Torrey’s determination and resilience.

The beginning of the novel moved slowly through his first few days of College. He connects to a friend and potential love interest, and his roommate is another support person. He draws the ire of one of his lecturers, who develops into an interesting character, although we can presume she challenges and supports him, unfortunately, the relationship is under-developed.

This is how I felt about the last third of the book, actually. It rushes past and problems are solved quickly, and the love story miscommunication sorted easily. The storyline involving his mother is left open, although we have no doubt how Theo feels (‘and don’t come back!’). I wanted the conclusion to feel stronger. I wanted to see Torrey more grounded, and I wanted to see more of those darned bees!

Thanks to Netgalley and publisher for advancing me a copy. Torrey has really put up with a lot in life, mostly grief and rejection, so he absolutely deserves all the excellent things that come his way. Recommended for readers who like their novels diverse and inclusive. These characters are out of school, and it’s lovely to read about college-aged young adults. We really thought New Adult was going to be a thing, but it seems to have stayed in the romance realm and hasn’t really taken hold in the ‘contemporary issues’ space (let me know if I am wrong here). I loved Torrey and Gabe, Desh, Clarke, Auburn, Kennedy and Emery (the aforementioned CAKE), and Aunt Lisa. They are all terrific people. Any Means Necessary is out on October 8 in the US.

Review: Wreck by Kristen Cronn-Mills

Wreck by Kristen Cronn-Mills

Published by Sky Pony Press
Released on April 2nd (in the US)
ISBN 9781510739031

Read 17 – 18 April 2019

Someone said to me, ‘it’s easy to write intensely sad books. All that emotion – very easy to articulate’. And that’s true to a point, but it’s also easy to descend into cliché and predictability. Which is why Wreck is so on point.

The emotional arc of Tobin’s grief never feels trite or superficial. She has always kept a tight rein on her feelings, has always been a quiet, thoughtful child, so finding words difficult when she discovers her paramedic marathon-running father has Lou Gehrig’s Disease (ALS), isn’t out of character. She spurns a lot of people’s effort to engage her (bf, Gracie #hashtagmonster and Aunt Allison), but takes support from others (Great-Uncle Paul and shy violinist Sid). She starts to tank in school, and throws her heart (metaphorically) into her beloved Lake Superior. But she never cuts herself off from these decisions, always self-aware, and mostly honest with herself and others.

This exploration of grief is slow and detailed. We see the disease catch up with Steve too too quickly, forcing Tobin to adapt to a very new set of life circumstances. Ike her dad’s carer, eventually moves in and the three of them navigate Steve’s withering muscles, as well as his damaged brain. It does take half the book to get to the really awful part of Steve’s decline, but the first part is crucial, so that we see all that is going to be lost—the closeness of Tobin and Steve, the all-embracing life he lives, the absence of her mother, and most surprising of all, the history lesson about the town where they live, Duluth.

Tobin’s family were right there at the beginning of western settlement, and Cronn-Mills deals with the ‘invasion’ in a thoughtful and honest way. Tobin’s reflections on the way the settlers explored and survived in this harsh landscape, and the interactions with the first nations people are a break from the impending tragedy, but also reflect Tobin’s inner confusion and turmoil. Her ancestors paved the way for Tobin’s life, and her love of this place grounds her and gives the story a strong and layered tapestry.

There are moments of lightness: Steve’s dad jokes, Ike’s eternal patience and forgiveness, Tobin’s attempts to create her origin story mashing together X-men and Star Wars figurines, and the six story high duck. And while these serve to illuminate the obvious—life does indeed go on, and we all grieve in our own way—there is no preparing us for the end of Steve’s life. It’s messy, it’s unfair and ultimately heroic. I was a crying mess, basically.

I did love the way that mum doesn’t arrive to save the day, nor do we get a full-on romance. This is real life, and nothing will halt the viciousness of a terrible disease. But Tobin makes us proud, and we know she’ll always have her dad guiding her way. Thanks to Netgalley and Sky Pony Press for this advanced copy. It has been out in the US for a couple of weeks now. Seek it out if you like strong narratives that don’t sugarcoat the world, that create authentic characters and situations, and that allow readers the space to explore grief in complex ways.

Review: You’d be Mine by Erin Hahn

You’d be Mine by Erin Hahn

Published by: Wednesday Books
Released on: April 2nd 2019 (in the US)
ISBN 9781250192882

Read 25-26 March 2019

You’d Be Mine is an engaging and intense read aimed at older teens who love their fictional love interests damaged and slightly broken. Even though Clay does fit into some very obvious YA tropes (he drinks even though he’s underage, he sticks to hooks up instead of relationships, and has the bad boy rep around the studio executives), but as the novel progresses, we see he is more than this stereotype, and Hahn does an excellent job of drawing us into his troubles, and sympathising with him.

Annie is also damaged by parents, initially neglectful and now dead. She’s been unable to break free of their memory as huge country and western stars (particularly her mother), and this has stymied her own career. This pair of broken kids need each other, and so we go on a summer road trip with them, as they perform on stage and spend time together off stage.

It’s not an original plot for sure, but Clay and Annie are interesting and well developed. We also have many side characters who also play important roles, especially Annie’s band mates, who are both family and friend to her. Hahn includes some of both Clay’s and Annie’s song lyrics, and it’s a good way to demonstrate their feelings for each other, and their growing sense of identity.

You’d be Mine is a  romance, but it’s also an insight into the lives of performing teenagers, and the pressures they put on themselves to succeed. There’s also a strong family element, and as both MCs have lost their closest family members, there’s a lot of grief and loss for them to overcome. It’s lovely to see Annie acknowledge her physical attraction to Clay, even though she isn’t one to act on impulse. Clay is also a gentleman (most of the time).

Thanks to Netgalley and publisher Wednesday Books for providing an advanced copy of this novel. Recommended for readers who love summer romance novels, with a darker edge, who love their female lead to be thoughtful and kind, but also one who stands up for herself. There’s detail here, so it doesn’t skim the surface, instead delving into issues such as drug and alcohol abuse, and suicide. But ultimately this is a love story, so you won’t be surprised that it’s a happy ending.