Joyride

Reviewed by: Jan Hamilton - Long Creek Center, South Portland., Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: August 11, 2015

Review

Carly is a hard working high school student who is trying to stay in the background since her parents were deported. She and her brother are saving to have her parents smuggled over the border. Arden comes from a wealthy family but is suffering emotionally since the death of his sister and alienation from his father. This story develops using humor and realism as it reveals the motivation of various characters. Readers will be enchanted by the love story, and horrified by the sheriff’s involvement in human trafficking.

The character development is the winning feature of this book. Carly is a strong young woman who knows how to stand up for herself while Arden is enough of a man to let her define their relationship. Bad Cops and immigrations issues make this more than just another love story. The family backgrounds are intrinsic to the plot and the ending leaves room for a sequel. Add this to YA collections.

Overall Book Score: very good