Dream Smashers by Angela Carlie

Sixteen-year-old Autumn has spent her entire life worrying about others. Her ailing grandma, meth-addicted mom, and a best friend who is always in trouble. She's spent the last few years attempting to worry less, to be carefree, without success.

Enter Evan, whose radiant attitude is an Autumn magnet. With Evan at her side, Autumn's able to let some of her worries go as they trudge through life's difficulties and fall for each other in the process.

A girl who no longer wants to care and a boy who cares enough for the both of them, Dream Smashers is a love story, but most of all, it's about letting go.

Good Reads Summary

This book has the ability to make the reader both sad and happy for the main character.  Autumn has two main people in her life: Evan and her mother.  Her mother is addicted to meth and not a good parent or friend at all.  Evan truly loves Autumn, the author makes this readily apparent.  The novel jumps right into the story, the reader doesn't have to wait around.  Autumn and Evan's relationship appears real and solid, the reader won't be rolling her/his eyes at the unrealistic romance in this novel.  The characters speak plainly, a welcome quality.  The plot is very interesting and is sure to capture the readers' interest throughout the novel.  There are both light and humorous events in this novel, and there are dark and dreary ones.  The author finds a good, but realistic balance.  This book is recommended for young adults who appreciate a good romance tempered by a harsh reality. 

4 Stars