Review: A hidden gem that handles a tough subject delicately and with respect
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 08 30, 2013
Jamie handles a terribly difficult subject with grace and respect, without exploiting her protagonist and without making Allie seem weak. Allie is, in fact, immensely strong, but she's put in a situation that seems to have no way out. She does what she believes to be best and strives to protect those she loves. Even as you see her making those decisions and know there's really no good way to go, you wish she had a better option, but you also admire her. Allie was definitely the biggest strength of the book for me. I hated to see her struggle, but I loved seeing her overcome.Dean is exactly the kind of guy we should be reading about and swooning over in books. Not only is he handsome, he's loving, strong, and he will make any sacrifice necessary to take care of his loved ones. He doesn't talk big, but he acts big. When he does become aware of Allie's situation, he handles it perfectly and not impulsively. Dean is not too cool and not a bad boy, but he's absolutely swoon-worthy.Sink or Swim's story is absolutely heartbreaking. (I definitely cried.) While it's technically a novella, it's really much closer to the length of a novel, and reads like one. The dual points-of-view worked well, since there is much Dean doesn't know. Even as there is not much action, the plot flows quickly and it feels like a much shorter work than it is. When it ended, I found myself wanting much more.I am so happy that I was given a chance to read this book, and I know I will be reading the rest of the books in this series and more of Jamie's works. Not only does she write well, but her story and characters are powerful and real. She handles the most difficult of subjects with great skill and respect. Jamie Canosa and her books deserve all the praise I can give.I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.