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Ockler, Sarah
5 Reviews
(4)
YA
In Ockler's "The Little Mermaid"–inspired tale set in seaside Oregon, Elyse, who lost her voice in a devastating boating accident, agrees to act as first-mate for handsome Christian in a high-stakes regatta; Elyse must face her watery demons and find the power in her true voice. Mermaid lore deepens this beach read, though the conclusion is fairly unsatisfying.
Reviewer: Rebecca Kirshenbaum
(3)
YA
Ignoring warnings from her three overbearing older sisters, Jude Hernandez hires a heartbreaking Vargas boy to rebuild her father's vintage motorcycle. Jude falls in love with Emilio in the garage, but their relationship falters as Jude's father succumbs to early onset Alzheimer's. Jude's struggle to find her voice amidst her opinionated, grieving family is tender and affecting.
Reviewer: Jessica Tackett MacDonald
(3)
YA
Once an accomplished competitive figure skater, Hudson's now "Cupcake Queen" of Watonka, New York. After three years of baking and suppressing her painful past--her parents' divorce, lost friends, a botched competition--Hudson's former passion for skating returns, and it affects her current relationships and responsibilities. Hudson evokes empathy in this what-could-have-been story that realistically portrays the overwhelming nature of adolescence.
Reviewer: Sophie Williamson
(4)
YA
Behaving badly is the only way Delilah can get her high-powered mother's attention. So when her grandmother, from whom Delilah's mother has been estranged, dies, Delilah's not sure what will ensue when she and Mom head to Vermont to settle the estate. Although Delilah's self-pitying can grow tiresome, the evolving family dynamic is engrossing and the romance plot is genuinely touching.
Reviewer: Norah Piehl
(3)
YA
Best friends Anna and Frankie are inseparable, even more so since Frankie's older brother, Matt, died the previous year. But Anna is keeping a secret that could alter their friendship forever, and the truth comes out during the girls' California vacation. This story of "befores and afters" is a sincere reflection of first loves, broken hearts, and summer flings.
Reviewer: Lana Barnes
5 reviews
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