Hi there everyone!
One of my latest reads, The Summer I Drowned by Taylor Hale, was an engrossing read that delved into mental health topics and created an intense atmosphere derived by the question: is this actually happening...or is it all in my head?
I quite enjoy book that pertain to one's mind palace and that distinct narrative that blends reality and a sense of otherness that separates you from the 'norms' in the world. I could see this framework at play throughout Hale's work and I believe The Summer I Drowned would delight fans of Riverdale or 13 Reasons Why with its teen angst, romance, drama, and suspense that follows the protagonist, Olivia Cathart. While I'd have liked to see more character development from Olivia, I understand the core of her character and how it correlates to the theme of the book: drowning. In my interpretation, I see how each of us are 'drowning' in our own way from: our past experiences, PTSD, societal stress, and many diverse situations.
In this debut work, Hale showed a capability to tap into the teenage spirit and the coming of age emotions that arise from those years. I look forward to seeing Hale's writing develop and journeying wherever her writing career will carry her.
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