TJ's Reviews > The Getaway List

What a lovely, sweet, and poignant coming of age novel! It keeps the light and breezy touch that Ms. Lord is known for but burrows in with a depth and tenderness that resonates with anyone, young or old, who has felt lost on their journey to find themselves.

Riley's character is especially touching and relatable. She is so full of life and fire but yet still so young and unsure of herself and her place in the world. She has courage and the determination to overcome and grow, and that is such an impressive lesson for readers to experience as they follow her through that growth. The secondary characters are also enjoyable and easy to like, each with their specific quirks and gifts. Ms. Lord did a fabulous job of painting a picture of modern day teens in a positive way, while still uncovering their youthful inexperience realistically. I do think there are times the character's insights came across as much older than their 18 years and, given the world we live in, the ability to do many of the things they did may not seem completely viable.

Still, the messages, the struggles, and the hope shine so brightly that one can't help but adore both the characters and the story. It is truly a delight and one that leaves a sweet smile as the last page turns.