Cinnamon Rain by Emma Cameron

When I opened this book and realised it was a verse novel, I groaned out loud. So I checked the back cover and groaned out loud again - another issues-based YA novel!!
This was not going to be my lucky day.

So imagine my surprise when I found myself staying up reading this book in one sitting until 1am.
I couldn't stop. I had to know what happened to Luke, Bongo & Casey. I cared about them. I wanted things to work out okay for them. I was on their side.

I wont give away the ending, so I will just tell you that these kids have taken some hard knocks in their young lives. They have to make tough decisions that will affect the rest of their lives.

It's hard-hitting stuff, but not graphic. There are drug & sex references. This will be classified as YA material, but mature teen readers will manage the content fine and the story is worth it.

I'll end with part of Emma Cameron's note at the back of the book as I think it gives you a good feel for what happens in her story.

"I am fascinated by watching people finding their way in life. I delight in their resilience, resourcefulness and ability to continue seeking what they feel is best for them....I always hope that where people end up is not too far away from where they had aimed to be. It's nice to think that picking uncertain paths may not necessarily alter their destination too drastically, simply the journey undertaken to reach it."