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annagwritesandreads 's review for:

Sweethearts by Sara Zarr
1.0
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

General Description: Jenna gets to reinvent herself, until Cameron Quick, her old BFF, seemingly comes back to life and rocks her world, pulling her old self (Jennifer) out. Can Jenna help Cameron, what will she learn along the way?

It's a 1 star because I finished it, but I feel like there are no redeeming qualities for this book. Here are some of my issues.
1) Usage of the R word. I get 2008 was a different time, but I cannot support books with that language.
2) I could not stand Jenna's mom. I think her stepdad had a level head for a stepdad, but her mom just ruined this book for me. I am not a parent so maybe I don't fully understand, but when you let her daughter change her name, praise her disordered habits to reinvent herself, and just not at least 20% in tune with her daughter. It doesn't seem like the mother had any deep dark secrets, she was just a working single parent which is tough, but for the single parents I know, they are definitely more dialed in. It didn't feel believable.
3) In terms of Cameron Quick: I just can't. No body questions the kid at any point. Like, not even Jenna! I'd have so many questions and not just let a friend walk all over me after not contacting me for 8 years.
4) I feel like there are a lot of unhealthy topics in this book that aren't addressed in any sort of positive light. If you don't know these are walking read flags, I feel like the behavior may seem normal and that's concerning.
5) The side characters were not redeeming either, they were all too absorbed with themselves (except Steph) and it was not pleasing to read.

I would not recommend it, just skip it. There are other, better character driven stories that handle trauma in a much better light.