Revolution

I fell in love with Jennifer Donelly’s writing when I discovered her historical romance trilogy The Tea Rose, and then devoured her YA novel A Northern Light. So when I found out she had published a YA book with history, young love, and a ghost mystery, I was all in!

In this story, the past and the present are once again woven together, adding fascinating and horrific details of the French Revolution as the main character navigates her new and strange life in Paris. The Catacombs beneath the city play a role in the plot, and it was this setting… show more.

I especially loved the edgy voice and sensibility of cynical protagonist Andi Alpers, who is struggling with grief over the loss of her younger brother and anger at her parents’ difficulty in handling their sorrow.

Her only real refuge is her passion for music. Forced to go with her father to Paris during a school break, she discovers the diary of a young woman from the past, Alexandrine, with whom she feels a strong connection.

I found both Andi and Alexandrine to be relatable, well-drawn characters, and I couldn’t put this book down—especially during the spooky scenes in the Paris… show more.

When I’m asked to give a recommendation for a Young Adult book, Revolution is always at the top of my list. This story is both unique and captivating – taking readers into the hearts and minds of two teenage girls, separated by centuries, united by the mysterious pages of a journal that connects them. It has layers of music, loss, and healing woven together in a way that connects deeply layered characters and settings. From modern-day New York and Paris to the ghosts of the French Revolution, I – much like the main character, Andi – felt completely transported in… show more.