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Recommend this book:
Blue Miracle
Blair Harton
2025 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - General
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Blue Miracle by Blair Harton tells a moving story of love, loss, and unexpected second chances against the picturesque backdrop of Monterey, California. This young adult romance follows the journey of Natalie and Grayson, whose intense summer romance ends in heartbreak, only to reignite years later when their paths unexpectedly cross again. As they navigate their rekindled connection, they must confront not only their past feelings but also surprising revelations that challenge their present. Harton weaves a compelling narrative that explores how time and experience shape our understanding of love while capturing the unique beauty of California's central coast and the universal experience of growing up and learning to trust again.
Author Blair Harton has created an immersive read through well-crafted prose that brings all the drama and Monterey's coastal beauty to life in vivid detail. What jumps out immediately from the novel is how Harton's characters feel wholly real, struggling with relatable challenges that go far beyond typical romance tropes and dive deep into the issues that Natalie and Grayson are facing. The natural dialogue is smoothly penned to offer the attitude and nuance of each character, revealing their personalities through conversations that flow with authentic emotion and wit. I particularly appreciated how Harton balances the freshness of young love with more mature themes of personal growth and healing. The way she describes the ocean's role in Natalie and Grayson's story is a really interesting core metaphor exploring how nature often mirrors our emotional journeys. There are many moments of brilliant atmospheric language, mood-enhancing metaphors, and comparisons, and Harton's careful attention to emotional detail makes every interaction between the characters feel significant and true to life. Overall, Blue Miracle is a captivating read that will appeal to anyone who believes in the possibility of second chances, and I would not hesitate to recommend it.
Blue Miracle by Blair Harton tells a moving story of love, loss, and unexpected second chances against the picturesque backdrop of Monterey, California. This young adult romance follows the journey of Natalie and Grayson, whose intense summer romance ends in heartbreak, only to reignite years later when their paths unexpectedly cross again. As they navigate their rekindled connection, they must confront not only their past feelings but also surprising revelations that challenge their present. Harton weaves a compelling narrative that explores how time and experience shape our understanding of love while capturing the unique beauty of California's central coast and the universal experience of growing up and learning to trust again.
Author Blair Harton has created an immersive read through well-crafted prose that brings all the drama and Monterey's coastal beauty to life in vivid detail. What jumps out immediately from the novel is how Harton's characters feel wholly real, struggling with relatable challenges that go far beyond typical romance tropes and dive deep into the issues that Natalie and Grayson are facing. The natural dialogue is smoothly penned to offer the attitude and nuance of each character, revealing their personalities through conversations that flow with authentic emotion and wit. I particularly appreciated how Harton balances the freshness of young love with more mature themes of personal growth and healing. The way she describes the ocean's role in Natalie and Grayson's story is a really interesting core metaphor exploring how nature often mirrors our emotional journeys. There are many moments of brilliant atmospheric language, mood-enhancing metaphors, and comparisons, and Harton's careful attention to emotional detail makes every interaction between the characters feel significant and true to life. Overall, Blue Miracle is a captivating read that will appeal to anyone who believes in the possibility of second chances, and I would not hesitate to recommend it.
Recommend this book:
Mahina Rises
John Blossom
2025 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - General
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Mahina Rises by John Blossom is a young adult novel that blends a thrilling magical realism adventure with a powerful message of hope. The story follows thirteen-year-old Mahina Moemoea, who lives on a Hawaiian ranch and has extraordinary flying dreams. Her grandmother, Tutu, warns her against exploring the family's special powers, believing they caused Mahina's parents' deaths. However, when her mother's spirit leads her on a dangerous journey, Mahina must embrace her abilities to fulfill her family's destiny of spreading aloha and combating climate change.
Author John Blossom has created a beautifully family-centric story that combines effortless magical realism with environmental themes in a story that's both enchanting and deeply meaningful for its YA audience. The vivid descriptions bring the Hawaiian setting and its mystical elements to life, immersing readers in Mahina's world with multi-sensory details from the sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and textures of the lush surroundings. This same treatment and level of atmospheric detail also extends into the character development, bringing each figure that Mahina meets into being as they leap off the page to greet you. Tutu was such a strong figure with a lot of different layers of protectiveness and tradition at play, and the dialogue around family superstitions and the environment was such a natural way of unveiling the upcoming plot. Blossom's exploration of generational conflict adds further emotional depth to a relatable and poignant struggle, but this is never too heavy or harmful, making the message of hope timely and inspiring. Overall, I would certainly recommend Mahina Rises to fans of immersive and heartfelt YA fiction that is perfectly pitched between fantasy and reality for its audience.
Mahina Rises by John Blossom is a young adult novel that blends a thrilling magical realism adventure with a powerful message of hope. The story follows thirteen-year-old Mahina Moemoea, who lives on a Hawaiian ranch and has extraordinary flying dreams. Her grandmother, Tutu, warns her against exploring the family's special powers, believing they caused Mahina's parents' deaths. However, when her mother's spirit leads her on a dangerous journey, Mahina must embrace her abilities to fulfill her family's destiny of spreading aloha and combating climate change.
Author John Blossom has created a beautifully family-centric story that combines effortless magical realism with environmental themes in a story that's both enchanting and deeply meaningful for its YA audience. The vivid descriptions bring the Hawaiian setting and its mystical elements to life, immersing readers in Mahina's world with multi-sensory details from the sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and textures of the lush surroundings. This same treatment and level of atmospheric detail also extends into the character development, bringing each figure that Mahina meets into being as they leap off the page to greet you. Tutu was such a strong figure with a lot of different layers of protectiveness and tradition at play, and the dialogue around family superstitions and the environment was such a natural way of unveiling the upcoming plot. Blossom's exploration of generational conflict adds further emotional depth to a relatable and poignant struggle, but this is never too heavy or harmful, making the message of hope timely and inspiring. Overall, I would certainly recommend Mahina Rises to fans of immersive and heartfelt YA fiction that is perfectly pitched between fantasy and reality for its audience.
Recommend this book:
Long Since Buried
A Dakota Killer Thriller Book 1
Angela Grey, Paige Peterson
2025 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - General
Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
Long Since Buried by Angela Grey and Paige Peterson follows Laci O’Neil, who arrives in Watertown, South Dakota, searching for her birth mother, only to discover she had a twin sister, Sydney Bisak, who was murdered 30 years ago. Laci is determined to uncover the truth behind Sydney’s death, which was officially ruled a suicide but surrounded by suspicions of foul play. As Laci investigates, she meets those who knew Sydney, including former classmates, school officials, and townspeople, many of whom viewed Sydney negatively. As more contemporary mysterious circumstances crop up, and with an understanding that Sydney feared for her life before her death, Laci untangles the lies, hidden relationships, and past traumas that point toward abuse and corruption. The deeper Laci digs, the more danger she finds herself in.
Long Since Buried by Angela Grey and Paige Peterson is an emotionally charged mystery that hitches itself to a mixed bag of secrets, and it’s pretty hard to set the book down once Laci realizes that everything she thought she knew about herself is gone. I like the alternating first-person point-of-view shifts between Sydney and Laci, and both have completely distinct voices, each speaking with an authenticity that feels earned and real. The writing itself is tight and shows the restraint that can only come from the pens of seasoned authors, with just enough detail to keep the story moving forward without being melodramatic. The way Sydney’s hardships are bread-crumbed through a rather quiet inner monologue contrasts well with Laci’s more investigative, determined perspective. The execution feels fresh and the authors breathe life into the lasting impacts of neglect and poverty. This is a solid first entry into their series. Very highly recommended.
Long Since Buried by Angela Grey and Paige Peterson follows Laci O’Neil, who arrives in Watertown, South Dakota, searching for her birth mother, only to discover she had a twin sister, Sydney Bisak, who was murdered 30 years ago. Laci is determined to uncover the truth behind Sydney’s death, which was officially ruled a suicide but surrounded by suspicions of foul play. As Laci investigates, she meets those who knew Sydney, including former classmates, school officials, and townspeople, many of whom viewed Sydney negatively. As more contemporary mysterious circumstances crop up, and with an understanding that Sydney feared for her life before her death, Laci untangles the lies, hidden relationships, and past traumas that point toward abuse and corruption. The deeper Laci digs, the more danger she finds herself in.
Long Since Buried by Angela Grey and Paige Peterson is an emotionally charged mystery that hitches itself to a mixed bag of secrets, and it’s pretty hard to set the book down once Laci realizes that everything she thought she knew about herself is gone. I like the alternating first-person point-of-view shifts between Sydney and Laci, and both have completely distinct voices, each speaking with an authenticity that feels earned and real. The writing itself is tight and shows the restraint that can only come from the pens of seasoned authors, with just enough detail to keep the story moving forward without being melodramatic. The way Sydney’s hardships are bread-crumbed through a rather quiet inner monologue contrasts well with Laci’s more investigative, determined perspective. The execution feels fresh and the authors breathe life into the lasting impacts of neglect and poverty. This is a solid first entry into their series. Very highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
Woodland
Family Portrait
Art Lionson
2025 Silver Medal
588 Pages
Check current price
Young Adult - General
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Woodland: Family Portrait is a work of fiction in the urban science fiction, adventure, and interpersonal drama subgenres. It is intended for the young adult reading audience and was penned by author Art Lionson. In the year 2043, the Woodland brothers, already grappling with the challenges of urban life, face an unexpected crisis when their younger sister, Mia, falls seriously ill. Seeking solutions, they unwittingly step into a complex web of events triggered by a seemingly simple job. As they navigate the intricacies of their choices, a hidden undercurrent of manipulation and inevitability begins to unravel. The story highlights their unyielding devotion to core human values amidst adversity, as well as the unwavering friendship of their loyal dog, Spark.
Author Art Lionson has crafted a highly compelling work that really taps into its emotional core of family bonds and the lengths we would go to for the ones we love. The narrative weaves together action-packed sequences with vivid cinematic descriptions, unexpected twists, and realistically narrated human dramas, all centered around themes of justice, camaraderie, and resilience. Lionson's storytelling captures the essence of human emotions, depicting the Woodland brothers' journey through pain, loss, and anxiety. I especially enjoyed the dialogue exchanges between the brothers, each showcasing unique attitudes to the issue at hand but in compatible harmony to get the job done. The book explores the bonds of family, friendship, and the pursuit of justice in a gripping narrative that holds readers' attention until the very last page. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend Woodland: Family Portrait to fans of action-packed YA urban drama everywhere.
Woodland: Family Portrait is a work of fiction in the urban science fiction, adventure, and interpersonal drama subgenres. It is intended for the young adult reading audience and was penned by author Art Lionson. In the year 2043, the Woodland brothers, already grappling with the challenges of urban life, face an unexpected crisis when their younger sister, Mia, falls seriously ill. Seeking solutions, they unwittingly step into a complex web of events triggered by a seemingly simple job. As they navigate the intricacies of their choices, a hidden undercurrent of manipulation and inevitability begins to unravel. The story highlights their unyielding devotion to core human values amidst adversity, as well as the unwavering friendship of their loyal dog, Spark.
Author Art Lionson has crafted a highly compelling work that really taps into its emotional core of family bonds and the lengths we would go to for the ones we love. The narrative weaves together action-packed sequences with vivid cinematic descriptions, unexpected twists, and realistically narrated human dramas, all centered around themes of justice, camaraderie, and resilience. Lionson's storytelling captures the essence of human emotions, depicting the Woodland brothers' journey through pain, loss, and anxiety. I especially enjoyed the dialogue exchanges between the brothers, each showcasing unique attitudes to the issue at hand but in compatible harmony to get the job done. The book explores the bonds of family, friendship, and the pursuit of justice in a gripping narrative that holds readers' attention until the very last page. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend Woodland: Family Portrait to fans of action-packed YA urban drama everywhere.
Recommend this book:
The Art of Giving A Crap
You Never Know What Someone is Going Through
Young Author Project
2025 Gold Medal
520 Pages
Check current price
Young Adult - General
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
The Art of Giving a Crap by Natalie Wilkinson and the Young Author Project is an unflinching look at the complexities of teen life, written with a sincerity that can only come from those who live it every day. Wilkinson and her students have crafted a book that doesn’t shy away from the tough topics—bullying, anxiety, loneliness, and the pressure to conform. Yet, the story is never bleak. Instead, it is filled with moments of hope, healing, and the powerful reminder that change can start with the smallest act of kindness.
The Art of Giving a Crap by Natalie Wilkinson and the Young Author Project is heartwarming and painful as students speak of their mistakes, face their demons, and ultimately find their voices. Beyond the storyline, The Art of Giving a Crap serves as a reminder to adults—parents, teachers, and mentors—that teens aren’t simply "going through a phase." Their emotions are real, their struggles are significant, and their need for guidance, love, and understanding is more critical than ever. The book offers practical insights into how to listen, support, and truly be there for young people who often feel like they’re navigating life’s challenges alone. Wilkinson and her students teach us that giving a crap isn’t just about intervening in crises; it’s about the small, everyday moments of connection that can create a ripple of change in a teen’s life. This is a must-read for adults and teens. It’s powerful and carries a message that must be heard. It’s worthy of all the stars in the sky.
The Art of Giving a Crap by Natalie Wilkinson and the Young Author Project is an unflinching look at the complexities of teen life, written with a sincerity that can only come from those who live it every day. Wilkinson and her students have crafted a book that doesn’t shy away from the tough topics—bullying, anxiety, loneliness, and the pressure to conform. Yet, the story is never bleak. Instead, it is filled with moments of hope, healing, and the powerful reminder that change can start with the smallest act of kindness.
The Art of Giving a Crap by Natalie Wilkinson and the Young Author Project is heartwarming and painful as students speak of their mistakes, face their demons, and ultimately find their voices. Beyond the storyline, The Art of Giving a Crap serves as a reminder to adults—parents, teachers, and mentors—that teens aren’t simply "going through a phase." Their emotions are real, their struggles are significant, and their need for guidance, love, and understanding is more critical than ever. The book offers practical insights into how to listen, support, and truly be there for young people who often feel like they’re navigating life’s challenges alone. Wilkinson and her students teach us that giving a crap isn’t just about intervening in crises; it’s about the small, everyday moments of connection that can create a ripple of change in a teen’s life. This is a must-read for adults and teens. It’s powerful and carries a message that must be heard. It’s worthy of all the stars in the sky.
Recommend this book:
Uglier
The Art of Being Ugly Book 2
Kelly Vincent
2024 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - General
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Uglier explores the struggles and triumphs of Nic Summers, a young artist looking for a fresh start in a boarding school far from her conservative roots in Oklahoma City. In this second installment of The Art of Being Ugly series, Kelly Vincent explores the complexities of gender identity, acceptance, and self-discovery with an unflinching eye. The story captures the delicate balance of a teen's emotional world, where every moment feels like it could tip the scales toward growth or devastation. Nic's journey is inspiring and heart-wrenching as she navigates a new school environment, hoping to find solace in creativity and camaraderie. Upon checking in, she was referred to as a “he,” introducing the catalyst immediately, which I loved. While new friendships and supportive mentors offer glimmers of hope, a relentless bully and a personal misstep threaten to upend everything Nic has fought so hard to build.
Kelly Vincent's writing is earnest and empathetic, drawing readers into a teenager's internal and external conflicts trying to find her place in an often unkind world. While the book doesn’t shy away from heavy topics, it also doesn’t dwell in despair, offering a message of hope, understanding, and the importance of authenticity. Uglier is a compelling choice for readers looking for a contemporary YA novel that deals with identity, resilience, and the art of being true to oneself. It’s a touching reminder that even when the world seems harsh, there are always moments of understanding and acceptance. Vincent provides a realistic view of the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community.
Uglier explores the struggles and triumphs of Nic Summers, a young artist looking for a fresh start in a boarding school far from her conservative roots in Oklahoma City. In this second installment of The Art of Being Ugly series, Kelly Vincent explores the complexities of gender identity, acceptance, and self-discovery with an unflinching eye. The story captures the delicate balance of a teen's emotional world, where every moment feels like it could tip the scales toward growth or devastation. Nic's journey is inspiring and heart-wrenching as she navigates a new school environment, hoping to find solace in creativity and camaraderie. Upon checking in, she was referred to as a “he,” introducing the catalyst immediately, which I loved. While new friendships and supportive mentors offer glimmers of hope, a relentless bully and a personal misstep threaten to upend everything Nic has fought so hard to build.
Kelly Vincent's writing is earnest and empathetic, drawing readers into a teenager's internal and external conflicts trying to find her place in an often unkind world. While the book doesn’t shy away from heavy topics, it also doesn’t dwell in despair, offering a message of hope, understanding, and the importance of authenticity. Uglier is a compelling choice for readers looking for a contemporary YA novel that deals with identity, resilience, and the art of being true to oneself. It’s a touching reminder that even when the world seems harsh, there are always moments of understanding and acceptance. Vincent provides a realistic view of the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community.
Recommend this book:
Fake Out
Seeing and Hearing Is No Longer Believing
Felicia Farber
2024 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - General
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Fake Out: Seeing and Hearing Is No Longer Believing is a work of fiction in the romance, interpersonal drama, and thriller genres. Although intended for mature YA and adult readers, it contains strong language throughout and sexual situations and references. Penned by author Felicia Farber, this romantic mystery novel tests the loyalty of a high school couple when artificial intelligence manipulates images to sabotage their relationship. David Woods faces repercussions as doctored images spread on social media, leading to a graphic video's circulation implicating him in misconduct with his ex, challenging his girlfriend Blair's trust amidst mounting school sanctions.
Author Felicia Farber has crafted a riveting dive into the complexities of teenage relationships and the dangers of digital manipulation that skillfully explores themes of trust, betrayal, and the impact of technology on modern romance. I was impressed by the commitment to character presentation and narrative flow, which grounds us in how unique David and Blair are as individuals and how their relationship dynamics work at different stages of the drama. As they grappled with the evidence and navigated the school's response, I found myself more and more drawn into their world, empathizing with their struggles and rooting for their relationship amidst the turmoil. Everything felt so relatable and closely narrated to give you every moment of suspicion and heartache, and the emotional arcs were fully realized for both characters as well as in their central relationship together. Farber's exploration of deepfakes and cyberbullying strikes a very relevant chord in today’s society, prompting reflection on the power of perception and the challenges of navigating love in the digital age. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend Fake Out to fans of interesting and original romantic thriller dramas everywhere.
Fake Out: Seeing and Hearing Is No Longer Believing is a work of fiction in the romance, interpersonal drama, and thriller genres. Although intended for mature YA and adult readers, it contains strong language throughout and sexual situations and references. Penned by author Felicia Farber, this romantic mystery novel tests the loyalty of a high school couple when artificial intelligence manipulates images to sabotage their relationship. David Woods faces repercussions as doctored images spread on social media, leading to a graphic video's circulation implicating him in misconduct with his ex, challenging his girlfriend Blair's trust amidst mounting school sanctions.
Author Felicia Farber has crafted a riveting dive into the complexities of teenage relationships and the dangers of digital manipulation that skillfully explores themes of trust, betrayal, and the impact of technology on modern romance. I was impressed by the commitment to character presentation and narrative flow, which grounds us in how unique David and Blair are as individuals and how their relationship dynamics work at different stages of the drama. As they grappled with the evidence and navigated the school's response, I found myself more and more drawn into their world, empathizing with their struggles and rooting for their relationship amidst the turmoil. Everything felt so relatable and closely narrated to give you every moment of suspicion and heartache, and the emotional arcs were fully realized for both characters as well as in their central relationship together. Farber's exploration of deepfakes and cyberbullying strikes a very relevant chord in today’s society, prompting reflection on the power of perception and the challenges of navigating love in the digital age. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend Fake Out to fans of interesting and original romantic thriller dramas everywhere.
Recommend this book:
Girl Under Glass
Ginny Rorby
2024 Bronze Medal
257 Pages
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Young Adult - General
Reviewed by Jennie More for Readers' Favorite
Girl Under Glass by Ginny Rorby is the story of a thirteen-year-old girl living with her alcoholic mother and assuming adult responsibilities of caring for their home and managing the bills. From the get-go, the author depicts Kelsey as an outsider when she steals a flower for her mother, gets arrested, and the judge sentences her to community service instead of juvenile detention. The judge says that this is her last warning. When Kelsey meets the seemingly crazy old botanist, Hobby, whom the judge assigned her to help at his greenhouse for her community service, her life takes a turn. Kelsey is caught between Hobby's age-old wisdom about plants and the mumblings of a constantly drunken mother. Things can go either way for Kelsey, but she gets to choose.
Girl Under Glass by Ginny Rorby is an absorbing, heartwarming, inspirational, and beautifully written book. At every crossroad, I wondered what choice Kelsey would make because it could go either way. With everything counting against her, one almost expected her to make the wrong choice, but throughout this narrative, Kelsey surprised me. Kelsey’s character creates a lot of suspense throughout. Thoughtfully written and skilfully yet subtly delving into the deepest, rawest, and often conflicting emotions children have about their parents, Rorby developed a stunning narrative that captivated my attention. I could not wait to pick up where I left off. This book is undoubtedly one of the best I've read, and I can't wait to read more from this author.
Girl Under Glass by Ginny Rorby is the story of a thirteen-year-old girl living with her alcoholic mother and assuming adult responsibilities of caring for their home and managing the bills. From the get-go, the author depicts Kelsey as an outsider when she steals a flower for her mother, gets arrested, and the judge sentences her to community service instead of juvenile detention. The judge says that this is her last warning. When Kelsey meets the seemingly crazy old botanist, Hobby, whom the judge assigned her to help at his greenhouse for her community service, her life takes a turn. Kelsey is caught between Hobby's age-old wisdom about plants and the mumblings of a constantly drunken mother. Things can go either way for Kelsey, but she gets to choose.
Girl Under Glass by Ginny Rorby is an absorbing, heartwarming, inspirational, and beautifully written book. At every crossroad, I wondered what choice Kelsey would make because it could go either way. With everything counting against her, one almost expected her to make the wrong choice, but throughout this narrative, Kelsey surprised me. Kelsey’s character creates a lot of suspense throughout. Thoughtfully written and skilfully yet subtly delving into the deepest, rawest, and often conflicting emotions children have about their parents, Rorby developed a stunning narrative that captivated my attention. I could not wait to pick up where I left off. This book is undoubtedly one of the best I've read, and I can't wait to read more from this author.
Recommend this book:
Woodland
Family Portrait
Art Lionson
2024 Silver Medal
588 Pages
Check current price
Young Adult - General
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Woodland: Family Portrait is a work of fiction in the urban science fiction, adventure, and interpersonal drama subgenres. It is intended for the young adult reading audience and was penned by author Art Lionson. In the year 2043, the Woodland brothers, already grappling with the challenges of urban life, face an unexpected crisis when their younger sister, Mia, falls seriously ill. Seeking solutions, they unwittingly step into a complex web of events triggered by a seemingly simple job. As they navigate the intricacies of their choices, a hidden undercurrent of manipulation and inevitability begins to unravel. The story highlights their unyielding devotion to core human values amidst adversity, as well as the unwavering friendship of their loyal dog, Spark.
Author Art Lionson has crafted a highly compelling work that really taps into its emotional core of family bonds and the lengths we would go to for the ones we love. The narrative weaves together action-packed sequences with vivid cinematic descriptions, unexpected twists, and realistically narrated human dramas, all centered around themes of justice, camaraderie, and resilience. Lionson's storytelling captures the essence of human emotions, depicting the Woodland brothers' journey through pain, loss, and anxiety. I especially enjoyed the dialogue exchanges between the brothers, each showcasing unique attitudes to the issue at hand but in compatible harmony to get the job done. The book explores the bonds of family, friendship, and the pursuit of justice in a gripping narrative that holds readers' attention until the very last page. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend Woodland: Family Portrait to fans of action-packed YA urban drama everywhere.
Woodland: Family Portrait is a work of fiction in the urban science fiction, adventure, and interpersonal drama subgenres. It is intended for the young adult reading audience and was penned by author Art Lionson. In the year 2043, the Woodland brothers, already grappling with the challenges of urban life, face an unexpected crisis when their younger sister, Mia, falls seriously ill. Seeking solutions, they unwittingly step into a complex web of events triggered by a seemingly simple job. As they navigate the intricacies of their choices, a hidden undercurrent of manipulation and inevitability begins to unravel. The story highlights their unyielding devotion to core human values amidst adversity, as well as the unwavering friendship of their loyal dog, Spark.
Author Art Lionson has crafted a highly compelling work that really taps into its emotional core of family bonds and the lengths we would go to for the ones we love. The narrative weaves together action-packed sequences with vivid cinematic descriptions, unexpected twists, and realistically narrated human dramas, all centered around themes of justice, camaraderie, and resilience. Lionson's storytelling captures the essence of human emotions, depicting the Woodland brothers' journey through pain, loss, and anxiety. I especially enjoyed the dialogue exchanges between the brothers, each showcasing unique attitudes to the issue at hand but in compatible harmony to get the job done. The book explores the bonds of family, friendship, and the pursuit of justice in a gripping narrative that holds readers' attention until the very last page. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend Woodland: Family Portrait to fans of action-packed YA urban drama everywhere.
Recommend this book:
The Cusser Club
A Tawdry, Titillating Texas Tale
Randall Northcutt
2024 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - General
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Cusser Club: A Tawdry, Titillating Texas Tale is a work of fiction in the coming-of-age, interpersonal drama, and Southern genres. It is intended for the young adult reading audience but contains some era-appropriate content that modern readers may find challenging. Penned by author Randall Northcutt, this gritty and realistic novel is set in 1969 in East Texas. Teddy Nutscalder and his friends Mickey O’Dell and Tommy Crum embark on a dangerous adventure that entangles them in a dark conspiracy, revealing the troubled lives and secrets of those around them. The plot is immersed in a turbulent era and weaves a tale of strong teenage friendship against a dark backdrop of abuse, conspiracy, and moral dilemmas.
Teddy Nutscalder’s poignant narrative, set against the harsh realities of his abusive home life and the toxic environment of Dix Knob, is constructed to pull you into his world on his terms with no holds barred. The portrayal of friendship and loyalty in the face of adversity was profoundly moving and a huge highlight of the work for me personally, showing the author’s immense talent for creating realistic people with clear attitudinal choices and emotional arcs that run deep. The novel’s gritty realism and vivid imagery transported me to another time, evoking both nostalgia and unease with strong atmospheric language that achieved the mood of each scene well. Despite its raw and occasionally controversial language, the story’s authenticity and emotional depth kept me captivated until the final page. Overall, The Cusser Club is a compelling testament to the power of storytelling that I would not hesitate to recommend.
The Cusser Club: A Tawdry, Titillating Texas Tale is a work of fiction in the coming-of-age, interpersonal drama, and Southern genres. It is intended for the young adult reading audience but contains some era-appropriate content that modern readers may find challenging. Penned by author Randall Northcutt, this gritty and realistic novel is set in 1969 in East Texas. Teddy Nutscalder and his friends Mickey O’Dell and Tommy Crum embark on a dangerous adventure that entangles them in a dark conspiracy, revealing the troubled lives and secrets of those around them. The plot is immersed in a turbulent era and weaves a tale of strong teenage friendship against a dark backdrop of abuse, conspiracy, and moral dilemmas.
Teddy Nutscalder’s poignant narrative, set against the harsh realities of his abusive home life and the toxic environment of Dix Knob, is constructed to pull you into his world on his terms with no holds barred. The portrayal of friendship and loyalty in the face of adversity was profoundly moving and a huge highlight of the work for me personally, showing the author’s immense talent for creating realistic people with clear attitudinal choices and emotional arcs that run deep. The novel’s gritty realism and vivid imagery transported me to another time, evoking both nostalgia and unease with strong atmospheric language that achieved the mood of each scene well. Despite its raw and occasionally controversial language, the story’s authenticity and emotional depth kept me captivated until the final page. Overall, The Cusser Club is a compelling testament to the power of storytelling that I would not hesitate to recommend.
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