Reviews with content warning for Medical content - Chaos Theory

Super fast read and one of the best portrayals of young love and mental health struggles I've seen in YA. I love how smart and talented these main characters are and how even the secondary characters get nuanced, realistic portrayals.

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laheath's review against another edition

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emotional hopeful medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

Excellent dual POV representation of mental illness (like the author, I hate that term too), as 2 teens also deal with all the normal pressures of school, family, and romance. Their individual stories are actually more complicated than average, including a parent running for political office, death of a sibling, changing schools 3 times in as many years plus a cross-country move, and having a parent famous for writing steamy urban romance novels. One of them already knows how to protect herself and isn't ready to let anyone else in and the other needs someone to show him he's worthy of being loved before he goes too far in hurting himself or someone else. Great characters in their support systems too, although one had too many issues of her own to be helpful.

I was so glad to hear the author's note included in the audiobook. Heads up, for those who usually skip this, the story continues after this, so don't think it ended abruptly (can't say if the format is the same in the print version).

Lots of trigger warnings for this book, so read with caution, as the author mentions in her intro note.

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betweentheshelves's review against another edition

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emotional hopeful reflective fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Thanks to NetGalley and Random House Children's for an advanced copy of Chaos Theory by Nic Stone to review! Of course, Nic Stone is always on my to-read list when she has a new book coming out, and I think this one might be one of her best ones yet.

One of the ways the story is told in this book is through text exchanges between Shelbi and Andy. They both have impeccable chemistry, even from the first time they interact. They're both dealing with heavy stuff, Andy with alcoholism and grief, Shelbi with bipolar disorder, and they find solace in each other. This entire book speaks to prioritizing mental health, and getting help when you need it. We honestly need more books like this one!

Outside of Shelbi and Andy, we have a well-fleshed out cast of characters. From both of their parents to their friends, you'll find a fully vibrant cast here. I especially loved Shelbi's parents; they were so supportive of her and worked to get her the help that she needed. And the way they bring Andy into the fold! Just lovely.

This is quite a heavy book, but in a way, it didn't feel that way? It's about two people finding each other in a time of need, and growing together and helping each other. It'll hit you right in the feels at a number of points, and in an entirely good way.

Overall, this is a powerful book that I hope makes it into the hands of those that need it!

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