Faithful

Faithful

Alice Hoffman

 

*This review is based on an advanced reading copy. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a chance to read the book in exchange for an honest review*

 

This is what a coming of age story should be.

  I am so in love with this book. I really could NOT put it down.

This is a story about a girl named Shelby who got into an accident with her best friend, Helene. The only difference is that Shelby survived with a scratch and Helene is in a permanent coma. Shelby carries her guilt with her everywhere, especially at the psych ward she's committed to for 3 months after the accident where she refuses to speak. After some time, the only person she really talks to is her drug dealer, Ben. I don't even want to give anything away after this point. 

This isn't one of those WOAH PLOT TWIST books (although there is a mystery character that's almost like Shelby's angel revealed at the end). It's all about character building and dealing with deep emotional issues. Shelby truly finds herself throughout the book, and I loved her every step of the way. From when she shaved her head and wore clothes that made you think she was homeless to when she was a college grad with her entire future ahead of her. And it doesn't stop at Shelby, I loved pretty much every character in this book. Shelby's mom, Ben, all of her dogs (yes they have their own little personalities), Maravelle and her kids, maybe not Harper... but the list goes on and on. I almost felt like I matured with Shelby after each unexpected twist in her life.

I don't even know what else to say to make you guys read this book. Just do it.

 

(actual footage of me reading this)