Under Rose-Tainted Skies

Reviewed by: Sheila Dube - Springvale Public Library, Springvale, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: February 13, 2018

Review

Seventeen-year-old Norah has become agoraphobic from Obsessive-compulsive disorder which keeps her from attending high school, having face-to-face social interactions, being touched and venturing outside. When good-looking, self-confident and socially-connected Luke, moves in next door and happens to catch her trying to "fish" her delivered groceries off the porch without going outside, a new hope of a relationship blossoms for Norah. Written in Norah's underlying humorous and self-deprecating voice, she reports all the ways her silent disability keeps her from enjoying the romance that begins to form, whether she is in therapy, frozen from panic or enjoying the morning through the open front door. Although some readers may not feel that the ending is realistic, those who enjoy romance will still be satisfied. Gornall has drawn on her own experiences with mental health and this is her first novel. Looking forward to seeing more from this author.

Overall Book Score: very good