Top critical review
3.0 out of 5 starsYA coming of age
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 16 May 2024
I am a fan of her books, the characters are well developed and always has a lot of emotional depth. This one is a coming of age YA story surrounding loss and friendship.
I had the audiobook read by Jess Nakihian, a suitably young voice, but a bit manic sounding. I couldn’t find a suitable speed to adjust too. It was either too fast or too slow for me. It eventually settles. She has a good range of voices I found her voice for Gabriel was ok.
Ru Evans is freakishly smart, attending college at 13 years of age. She is leaving away from home, struggling to make friends until she meets fellow outsider 17 year old Gabriel. When RU’s mom
dies and she is left with the prospect of living with her Aunt Ru and Gabriel take an impulsive road trip.
The story is told from RU’s POV she seems to be relating her story to some girls, which eventually they are revealed as to who they are. Oh my the main character isn’t at all likeable, i found her very abrupt, blunt and standoffish, it’s not stated but it feel that she is neurodiverse. I found her attitude very irritating, Gabriel who identifies as non-binary was more likeable. The Aunt is chiselled from the same block as Ru.
I’ve loved several of this author’s books, but this one didn’t grab me, her characterisation is excellent and I can usually really connect, but I couldn’t connect with this main character. I think I prefer her historical/ retro books.