Publication Date: Aug 2023
Blurb:
Addison is no stranger to feeling stressed, insecure, and sad. Her therapist recommended she keep a journal to help her understand those feelings better, which she really needs today. It’s her first day back to school, several weeks after she survived her suicide attempt. She knows there are rumors about why she did it: A lousy home life? Bullying? Heartbreak? None of them are true, but it doesn’t matter because Addison still feels like she’s drowning. She still holds secrets she’s not ready to share.
During the school day, Addison encounters four other students struggling with their own secrets: Booker is anxious about seeing Addison. They were sort of a couple until he tried to kiss her. She fled and then tried to end her life. Those two things couldn’t be related, could they?
Celia feels trapped by her mother’s abusive boyfriend. She can guess why Addison did what she did. Damion is TikTok-famous and thinks befriending Addison could boost his followers. But what no one knows is he needs the world to remember him since his sick mom doesn’t anymore.
Avery is considered a loner and doesn’t know Addison, but they have neighboring lockers. With Avery’s older brother in jail for dealing drugs, Avery is desperate for meaningful human connection.
What To Expect:
Readers can expect a poignant look at teen mental health and struggling through tough situations like abuse, family discord, and suicide. This story focuses on friendship and family, with very little romance.
Content Warnings:
Language: Mild – One character repeatedly uses the term “jackbag” as a derogatory name.
Sexual Content: Closed Door – Very little romance
Violence: Heavy themes of child abuse (no graphic detail on the actual abuse) but dealing with the consequences of abuse
Substance Use: Mild – One of the character’s brothers is in jail for dealing drugs, however, there are no scenes of drug use in this book.
Prejudices: None
Religious Themes: A girl prays. God is mentioned a few times.
Other Topics: Cancer & Alzheimer’s. Child born out of wedlock. Heavy mental health themes including suicide attempt
Please keep in mind that some things may be missed in content reviews and this is meant to be a general overview without spoilers. Use your own discretion with the information provided to make the right choice for you! View our guideline here.
Leave a comment