Review: “Everywhere, Always”
I chose this book from an ARC program because I was looking for a good YA read.
The Premise
Avery’s life changes in an instant when a drunk driver slams through a red light, killing her mother and leaving her with lifelong scars.
Before she has a chance to mourn her mother’s death, she is introduced to her new family who she never knew existed, and vice versa — a father, a stepmother, and a brother the same age as her. Her new life takes her from a working-class existence to an upper-class life in a penthouse apartment in New York, where she intends to bide her time until she becomes an adult in a few months.
But as she gets to know her parents and her brother’s friends, she is swept away by the throes of her first love. Opportunities for a future career emerge, and soon her former life is a vestigial memory. Can the love of a family, friends and a boyfriend be enough to heal her scars — both on the outside, as well as the inside?
The Pros
This was a beautiful, heartwarming story of loss, grief, and the power of love and redemption. Avery’s overwhelming welcome from her new family was lovely, and all of the characters came to life through the author’s vivid descriptions and witty dialogue.
While romance was a major theme, there was so much more here. The pacing moves swiftly along as the bonds between the teenagers strengthen, and I loved all of the relationships that are shown — female friendships, male friendships, sibling relationships, longstanding love between married couples, and much more.
I also appreciated the growth and development of the main character, Avery, and I liked seeing her push beyond her grief and open herself up to find love for others and herself.
The Cons
While I loved this story, it was a bit simplistic, and I kept hoping for a twist. The big dramatic moment was swiftly resolved before the happy ending. I also wish we found out why her mother had hid her father from her; I felt like the background given was insufficient reason. Knowing exactly who her father was, and that he was a good man (with no bad history with her mother), but still keeping him a secret… it was a selfish decision, to limit Avery’s future and deprive her of a positive male relationship for her entire life. Though realistic, it seemed out of place in such a great mother-daughter relationship.
Conclusion
Nevertheless, overall this was a great pick for a Young Adult coming-of-age novel that packs an emotional punch. I highly recommend to anyone, but particularly to young women. The main character’s emergence through all this emotional drama, and journey to healing, is a story of triumph that will resonate with many readers. I loved seeing such a positive story with strong families, and I look forward to more from the author.
