Hachette Children's Group sent me a review copy of Devoted by Jennifer Mathieu.
If you remember way back when I reviewed Moxie by Jennifer Mathieu then you'll know that I struggled to put my feelings into words as I was blown away. Devoted was no exception and I thought that it was absolutely excellent.
Rachel Walker's family and community have turned away from the world.
Every part of Rachel's life is controlled, from what she reads to where she goes and what she wears. Her parents dictate how her life must be: marriage, modesty, children and obedience to her future husband. But when a former member of her community, a girl who escaped, moves back to her small Texas town, Rachel's world turns upside down.
She realises that her life is her own. But can she find the courage to fight for it?
Source: Review Copy
5 Word Review: Belief, family, control, friendship, living.
Devoted is a very emotional story, and I think it was written with a lot of care and consideration - there is nothing vilifying about region itself, it is more a commentary on some more extreme beliefs and how they can effect individuals, families, and communities.
Rachel is such a deep and complicated character, and I found it so easy to feel sympathy for her. I felt dread when she did, love when she did, relief when she did. And I was rooting for her all through the story.
I thought that Rachel and Mark were adorable. I loved their back and forth, their word games, the slow build of their relationship as they got to know each other and become comfortable being around someone from such a different world.
This is quite a fast paced contemporary for all that I can't really say anything super action-y takes place. But I could not put it down. The writing is engaging and I cared so much about Rachel that I didn't want her story to end.
Devoted is a marvellous book, a brave story, and I'd recommend it to anyone who likes contemporary and fantastically written characters.
Have you read anything by Jennifer Mathieu?
I really need to read some of Jennifer's work.
ReplyDeleteThis sounds like such a brilliant story and a really moving one too - I also really appreciate that it's written sensitively and respectfully. Will definitely be adding this to my TBR x
ReplyDeleteIt does sound super emotional indeed. I could definitely read this book. I have watched a few movies with similar storylines or "atmosphere". I love when it is fast paced too!
ReplyDeleteGreat review! This book is on my TBR and I'm excited to read it!
ReplyDeleteHaven't read anything by Jennifer Mathieu 😊 Lovely review, Cora!😊
ReplyDeleteXoxo
Shirley | https://shirleycuypers.blogspot.com
This sounds like a great story, especially as you cared so much for Rachel. It's always so much more enjoyable and engaging when you feel for the characters and root for them. Thank you for sharing your thoughts Cora, this sounds like a book well worth reading <3 xx
ReplyDeleteBexa | www.hellobexa.com
Ahh I'm so excited for this! Moxie is one of my favourite novels ever and your review has got me even more pumped for Devoted! So well written and informative :)
ReplyDeleteAdded to my shopping and reading list. Thanks x
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