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: If We Were Us by K L Walther

If We Were Us by K L Walther

Published by: Sourcebooks Fire
Released on 1 June 2020
ISBN: 9781728210261

Read on: 5 – 6 May 2020

I really enjoyed this romantic, boarding school story. It was light, and while our dual narrators mostly focus on teenage drama, and somewhat frivolous stuff, for example, dresses for prom, and spending time with friends, there is enough serious material to engage readers on a deeper level.

Sage and Charlie are best friends forever. So much so that almost everyone expects them to wake up and love in love. Both of them know that’s never going to happen – Sage is secretly in love with Charlie’s twin brother Nick, and Charlie is deeply, deeply in the closet. When Luke arrives, there’s a bit of a stir in the group of friends – good looking, personable, popular – which girl will snag him?

The boarding school setting is as you’d expect – elite, preppy and mostly rich kids. There are many characters to indicate the many friends Sage and Charlie have, and how many girlfriends Charlie has, and while they serve the purpose of offering a range of opinions about each other and the entanglements of romantic interludes, they really are just backdrops to our focused four.

Walther doesn’t explain everything either. Readers have to keep up with Sage’s breezy monologues, and Charlie’s intense regime of academic excellence, student leader, sporting commitments and getting together with and then quickly breaking up a string of beautiful peers. He’s quite exhausting, and as the story progresses and we watch the way he struggles with his attraction to Luke, we understand why he maintains so many commitments. Sage’s secret romance with Nick also seems like it’s a hot minute from disaster, and we’re not surprised when everything is turned on its head.

It is so easy to engage with Sage and Charlie. Their loyalty and love for each other is infinite. Even though they think they are keeping secrets from each other, they’re really not. They know each other too well. They are observant and keep a protective eye out. It’s a fascinating bond, and when Sage loses everything to keep Charlie safe, and Charlie realises what Sage has done for him, they are truly insightful moments for these kids, and we sympathise and cheer them on.

Talk on the review sites mention the terrible ways Charlie treats his girlfriends, and subsequently Luke. But Walther does a good job of showing us why he is so fearful about his sexuality. Nick too develops beautifully as a character. He has to come to terms with a lot about both Sage and Charlie, and his forgiveness is everything.

But Luke is the character that stands out for me – brave, resilient, extraordinarily strong. He puts up with a lot from Charlie, and it’s important that he draws a line on the treatment and holds his ground. But since predominantly, this is a romance novel, the grand gestures are predictable, and readers aren’t required to deal with too much angst or darkness.

Thanks to Netgalley and Sourcebooks Fire for the advanced copy. Recommended for readers who like books that focus on romance and friendships more than social issues and commentary. It doesn’t try to be more than it is, however, there’s some thoughtful conflict in there among all the typical high school hi-jinks. It’s funny too, so it doesn’t take itself too seriously. Highly satisfying conclusion. If We Were Us comes out on June first 2020. [Can I just add that watching these kids group hug and engage in absolute no social distancing seems weird in these current circumstances? Wonder if we’ll be given books set in this time in a year or so? Or will it just be a small blot on the year that was 2020? Who knows.]

Review: Unscripted by Nicole Kronzer

Unscripted by Nicole Kronzer

Published by Amulet Books
Released on 21 April 2020
ISBN 9781419740848

Read: 5 – 7 February 2020

This is a timely release in terms of the #metoo movement. Although protagonist Zelda is not sexually abused, there is a lot of misogynistic behaviour which is ignored by others, to the point where Zelda’s self-doubt and second-guessing leads to her keeping secrets and avoiding others while she blames herself for what’s happening to her. Her path from passive sufferer to outspoken survivor is a trip worth going on, not least of all because of its fresh backdrop.

Zelda is a wannabe comedian. She’s been invited to be part of a highly sought-after improvisation camp, where young people from all over the US congregate to learn from professional comedy writers. Zelda is joined by her brother Will, his (recently declared) boyfriend Jonas, and meets other girls, self-named The Gildas, Sirena, (who loves) Emily, Hannah and Paloma. It is these friends who make it possible for Zelda to finally open up and confess her treatment by the objectively gorgeous, but aggressively narcissistic Ben.

The story takes place over the two-week period of improv camp. Zelda is excited to be chosen as one of the varsity team (Ben’s ‘top’ group of course), but as time passes, and the boys, most especially mentor and leader Ben treat her in vile and underhanded ways, she starts to wonder whether she is talented at all, or if she is only picked because they need a girl (to play all the undesired parts, such as the dead prostitute, the nagging girlfriend, and so on). She is not given any platform to perform her own material, nor is she allowed to criticise the teams’ choices of her roles. It’s pretty terrible to watch, particularly when, in private, Ben shows a different side, one which is focused in on Zelda as a potential sexual conquest.

Zelda’s innocence explains why she puts up with this treatment for as long as she does. Ben is gorgeous and can be charming, so it’s fortunate Zelda is also introduced to another group of boys from the neighbouring Scout camp – Jesse, Murph and Ricky—who show her the ways boys can and should behave. At all times, these young men are thoughtful, careful, and responsible. Jesse is also attracted to Zelda, and his manner is respectful and compassionate. She spends as much time with him, walking trails, helping the younger scouts, as she does with Ben, and the disparity in attitude could not have been more extreme.

As well as the romantic plot line, the comedy thread is interesting, and it seems clear the author has a lot of insight into this world. There are many stories of the way female comedians have struggled to break into the industry. Misogyny apparently begins early when people are just starting out. The camp managers themselves display appalling judgement when confronted with Zelda’s claims of mistreatment, and this is familiar to those of us who have watched the way society and the media have vilified some victims of organisations like the Church or individuals like Harvey Weinstein.

By the time we observe Zelda’s exposure of Ben, her triumphant performance on stage, and honest discussions about being attracted to Jesse, we have seen how much she has been put through, and how much she persisted, and we cheer her on with applause and laughter.

Thanks to Netgalley and Amulet books for the advanced copy. It’s out in the US on April 21^st and here in Australia in June. Check release dates for other countries. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a thoughtful yet fun exploration of the way girls can be marginalized and made to conform to expectations. Zelda often reflects on the other Gildas, aware of how much harder it might be for them – as black women (Sirena and Paloma), as lesbians (Sirena and Emily) and as an albino woman (Hannah). It’s a small but significant conscious acknowledgement of one’s own privilege. As just mentioned, there is great diversity and inclusivity, and honest discussions about sex and trust. I found it an extremely engaging and welcome narrative, as well as a lovely romance.

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.

Review: Chasing the Shadows (Sentinels of the Galaxy #2) by Maria V Snyder

Chasing the Shadows (Sentinels of the Galaxy, #2) by Maria V Snyder

Published by: HarperCollins
Released: November 18 2019
ISBN: 978148925276

Read: November 1- 3 2019

This is a really great second book. It doesn’t feel like filler, or as if we are being dragged along waiting for the third book. Lyra/Ara continues to grow as a character, and as ‘the chosen one’, as do other characters who support her. This is especially true of people like Officer Radcliff, Niall’s father and Chief of Security, who develops into a kind-of second father to Ara. Elese, Beau and the other guards and crew soon have personalities and quirks and of course, we learn more about Niall, the boyfriend, and readers will love that we don’t see any romantic angst between them. The focus remains squarely on the obstacles they face created by Jarren to keep them isolated on Yulin with the Protectorate and the DES believing they are all dead.

Ara’s snarky narrative voice sets a cracking pace, and even when we are being brought up to speed with the events of the previous book, Navigating the Stars, it’s fast and concise. But this is still a long book because in order to develop Ara’s new gifts organically, Snyder cleverly sets up a number of layers so that there are plots within plots, and we are kept busy figuring out the meaning of the terracotta warriors all the way on the other side of the galaxy, Ara’s struggle with the physical training in her new role as a security guard, not to mention wondering where the murdering looter, Jarren has hidden himself. We know it’s only a matter of time before he makes an appearance, and the whole team must be ready to confront that reality.

Snyder’s books follow a certain path, and it’s all good. There’s a feisty female lead who is self-depreciating while still having the most power in the room at any given time. She brings together a group of loyal supports who have her back, but never let her forget her humble beginnings. When she starts to speak of weird conspiracies and displays talents no one should have, they shrug off the unusual nature because they quickly learn that to ignore what she says leads to bad things happening. In this case, Ara is a beacon of hope. Her ability to navigate the Q-Net is their salvation. While she stays a few steps ahead of Jarren most of the time, nothing is ever too easy. This is very important in a suspenseful novel: readers have to feel tension and anxiety and truly worry that at any moment one of the good guys could die. Snyder is a master at balancing this fine line.

Thanks to Netgalley and HarperCollins for the advanced copy of Chasing the Shadows. If you read Navigating the Stars this book will be obligatory reading. If you have enjoyed any one of this author’s other books, you might like to try this sci-fi mystery mashed up with an Indiana Jones treasure hunt. Recommended to other readers who like their heroes snarky and generous, and who enjoy original ideas about how the Earth connects to other life on other planets. The romance is solid, yet sweet, and the action thrilling. Chasing the Shadows is out everywhere on November 18.

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: The Gamer’s Guide to Getting the Girl

The Gamer’s Guide to Getting the Girl by Kristin Scarrow

Published by: Dundurn Press
Released: July 16 2019 (US and Canada)
ISBN: 9781459744769

Read on: July 8 -9 2019

This is an interesting blend of videoing gaming and survivalist genre. It’s not an unheard of mash-up. Seriously, aren’t all video games a kind of narrative about surviving (levelling up?) some sort of extreme environment, whether it’s dystopian, historical or fantasy? So for the main character to apply his gaming skills when he and some strangers are forced to bunk down in a shopping mall while a massive tornado encroaches: It’s not a big stretch. Zach is a genuine good guy. Throughout the entire ordeal, he puts everyone first, and risks his own life even though he is scared and unsure.

The other element of the novel is clearly in the title. Just before the shopping mall goes into lockdown, Zach and his best friend Cooper meet a feisty young woman called Samara. She puts Zach in his place several times which only serves to make him more intrigued. But his lack of game (see what I did there?) means his unfiltered responses do not make him look good. But for readers, his flaws are authentic, and make him sympathetic in our eyes.

Zach spends the rest of the book trying to redeem himself directly with Samara, while doing the actual redeeming by his nature of helping others. He supports a mother with her young son Ira, sooths and protects Martha and Peter an older couple, and tries to keep all spirits up when circumstances get very dire. Samara’s own backstory is complex and when it looks like she is bonding more with Coop, Zach is dismayed and hurt. Scarrow has been able to make these relationship dramas integrate with the oncoming storm by allowing Zach to reflect on his feelings through his internal narrative voice. He worries about his parents and brother, he considers his friendship with Zach, and of course, he constantly compares his situation to similar scenarios while gaming and thoughtfully selects a course of action to allow everyone to survive.

When I discovered Zach is 15, I realised that there is a gap in the YA market of boys this age. They are either younger 12 or 13, or much much older. It seems we don’t think about fiction for mid-teens because don’t they all read up (actually, do they read at all?) I thought the characterisation and age appropriateness was balanced well here. He’s interested in girls, but still spends a lot of time with his family. In fact, Zach’s family is held up as ‘perfect’ and compared with both Coop and Samara’s circumstances, it is pretty good. Zach becomes aware of how lucky he is to have been given love and support through his life. There’s a lovely section where he and Coop try to convince Zach’s mother about the benefits of gaming, and this is clearly the author showing young people that there are adults who can see that video gaming is not all bad.

This isn’t a lengthy novel, and the tornado brings suspense and tense scenes in which we aren’t sure everyone will survive. But it’s also a thoughtful novel about a teenager who is trying to figure out what it means to be attracted to someone and how to put himself out there and risk his feelings. The chapter headings all relate directly to the title and Scarrow has done a great job of keeping all the elements tied together.

Thanks to Netgalley and Dundurn for advanced copy. The Gamer’s  Guide to Getting the Girl will be released in Canada and the US on July 16, and hopefully it will hit international shelves soon after. Recommended for readers who are gamers and who rarely see themselves in fiction, and to those who like a tense, plot driven story.

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.