Hi folks,

I’m really excited to be a part of the UQ Press and #AusYaBloggers Blog Tour of the wonderful We are Okay by Nina LaCour. Thank you UQ Press and AusYA Bloggers for a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

Publisher’s Description:

Marin hasn’t spoken to anyone from her old life since the day she left everything behind. No one knows the truth about those final weeks. Not even her best friend, Mabel. But even far away from the California coast, at college in New York, Marin still feels the pull of the life and tragedy she’s tried to outrun. Now, months later, alone in an emptied dorm for winter break, Marin waits. Mabel is coming to visit and Marin will be forced to face everything that’s been left unsaid and finally confront the loneliness that has made a home in her heart.

(TW – death of family, anxiety, depression.)

I enjoyed this book so very much. It’s little, but it packs a punch, and although it’s very quiet, the LaCour’s excellent writing is paced to suck you in and hold your attention. The present day story line is set at Marin’s college during the winter break, and Mabel has come to visit her. (It was nice to read about snow and cold during the heat of a Brisbane summer).

The relationship between Marin and Mabel is a wonderful focus of the book. They started out as best friends years ago and have remained best friends, although there has been something more between them recently. Marin’s silence means that Mabel has moved on, but she obviously still cares deeply for Marin and wants her to be happy.

Marin’s relationship with her Grandfather is beautifully represented. Marin’s struggle with grief, anxiety and depression is very real and completely heartbreaking. The ending of the book though is rich with hope for the future.

There’s so much I would love to talk about, but I can’t without getting into spoilers. Just know that this is a great book and you should read it! 4 stars from me.!

The Blog Tour is continuing through to March 25. Make sure you check out some of the great reviews from those on the tour schedule!

Cheers,