Although guilt, doubt, and family disconnect are typical YA fiction story topics, rarely are they rooted in the primary cause of this story. Nor are they always handled so deftly as they are by author Heather Hepler. The cause of guilt and disconnect are revealed slowly, and the story's pacing and development are well done; I felt curious rather than impatient or annoyed. Our heroine Mia is experiencing some serious situations - but she is interesting and creates empathy rather than being pitied and depressing. This is a difficult topic to address, and Mia's situation is certainly a big deal, to be sure - but the story ends with hope that is messy but still real.
When Mia Hopkin's sister Rachel dies in a tragic accident, her family completely falls apart. Mia was also seriously scarred (both body and emotions). Although she can't remember much of anything about the accident or it's surrounding circumstances, she knows she is to blame.
Mia unhappily goes to New York for the summer to stay with a grandmother she's never met, and immediately starts a job at a diner as a baker's assistant. Yet with all of these major challenges and huge life changes, she is still willing to cautiously try new things. The "flavor" of the city and the diner and huge Brunelli family that embrace Mia, along with the budding relationship with her grandmother and some rich new friendships - all are well written, believable, and interesting.
I truly enjoyed this book. It was thought provoking with tender and laugh out loud moments. It is easy to recommend this book!
I was provided a complimentary copy by Blink Publishers in exchange for my honest review.
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