Review: A very sweet YA read
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 12 8, 2013
Originally posted at Sizzling Hot YA BooksWhat a brilliant young adult story that In The Middle of Nowhere was. I adored the story line–the way Ms. Knudsen so skillfully crafted the voice of our heroine, sixteen year old Willow. This author obviously has amazing talent when it comes to nailing the YA writing world. I truly felt as though I was living through Willow’s eyes as she fell in love for the first time. But this wasn’t just a story of girl meets boy. This in fact was a life lesson at its finest. Dealing with grief, rumors, love, and loss, all while trying to navigate through high school.Willow is new in town, starting over after the death of her father. Her mom sort of shut down after the death of her husband. Willow is not a happy girl about being at a new school and having to make new friends, but she deals with it. It also helps that a new mysterious boy is around, dropping her notes in all poetic fashion. Unfortunately, that’s short lived when he misses out on school–a lot–bringing about rumors that he’s sick, possibly even dying. Not only does she have to deal with her unexpected new crush that keeps going MIA, she also has to deal with a toxic new friend who doesn’t have the best of a reputation.I don’t want to get spoilery here with my review, so I’ll stop. Just know that this is one particular teen novel that truly captures the essence of what young adults go through in their lives. Also makes me realize that indeed, I am so thankful I don’t have to go back to those days.I’m in awe of In The Middle of Nowhere’s awesomeness. Ms. Knudsen’s writing style is incredible; so smooth and easy to follow. Clean too, which is very difficult to find in this day and age. In the Middle of Nowhere is not overly long either; perfect to curl up to and read in an afternoon’s time. I honestly can’t wait to read more from this author. She show’s amazing talent and has definitely earned a fan in me after this book