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for_esme_with_love's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
My teenage self feels incredibly seen by the protagonist, Violet, who is one of the most richly crafted characters I have read in YA fiction! A former child actor who is reeling from a traumatic family event, Violet is used to coping with her anxiety through alcohol and sex. But this summer she is rocking a freshly shaved head and is determined to turn over a new leaf, throwing herself instead into investigating a shipwreck that may hold a secret about her family's past. The real intrigue of this book is the depth of the supporting characters, all deeply lovable as well as flawed, who embrace Violet with open arms to help her solve the mystery. The love interest is beautifully rendered as a full, imperfect human, and even though the romance is a more minor plot it is no less satisfying. Also bonus points for depicting a character responding very reasonably to romantic rejection, which is rare to see, and queer story without a focus on coming out!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Panic attacks/disorders
Moderate: Alcoholism, Sexual content, Forced institutionalization, Blood, Medical content, Grief, and Suicide attempt
Minor: Bullying and Child death
A suicide attempt of a family member is a primary aspect of the plot (not depicted). One of the characters lost a sibling when they were younger and discusses this loss. There is also a scene where the main character goes out with an older man who may not realize she is underage. She is ok, but the scene is uncomfortable.