Book Review~Shine by Lauren Myracle

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I think my middle school students will enjoy this one, especially since we can never keep Myracles's Internet girls series on the shelf. I haven't read any of her other books. And, I must confess that this one was a little more dramatic than I expected.

Shine takes on the serious issues of sexuality and hate crimes quite gracefully. Cat has withdrawn from all her friends ever since the event with Tommy. Cat drops hints throughout the story that Tommy was forcefully sexual with her when she was thirteen. Now three years later, her former best friend has been found tied near a gas dispenser, with the nozzle stuffed down his throat and a insinuating note on his chest. Cat realizes the local sheriff will not be making finding those responsible a priority, so she decides she'll start asking some questions. If she hadn't kept to herself the past three years, her inquiries might have gone unnoticed, but she draws some unwelcome attention.

The twists and turns keep the reader guessing as to who is the likely suspect. Even when the guilty person is confirmed, the suspense continues and the reader will not be disappointed.

Thanks to Amulet Books for allowing access through NetGalley.