Stephanie Coleman

This novel kicks off a new YA series published by Focus on the Family geared toward teens facing real issues depression, death, divorce. The main character and a few of her friends are having a crisis of faith as their worlds are spinning faster than they can catch their breaths. How to make things right again? Is that possible? What to believe? How could a Christian man cheat on his family, then seek a divorce without even trying to reconcile. Both Tessa and her mom cannot believe this is happening to them. What to do when bad things happen to good people? What does that look like? How is someone supposed to deal with that and have faith in God?

Zoe is there for Tessa letting her talk things out not, listens and gives a hug and tissues when needed. I loved the transparency of the whole situation. It was not about a list of scripture verses spoken out loud to go for a quick fix to this major blow up. Tessa must face her friends and her father (the cheater) and her hurt feelings. She wanted her father to make things right. Tell her he was sorry. But that isn’t realistic. She soon realizes the only one she can change is herself and it’s ok to take it one day at a time.

I liked the true emotions and struggles shared by Tessa and her mother as their life blows up, and they navigate uncharted territory, trying to keep it real, recognizing that nothing and no one is perfect (including them) This is a great start to a heart-warming, transparent read about tough issues. I look forward to reading the next book in this series!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I have received a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher through NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”

Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog www.bookfun.org… (mais)