Thought and discussion provoking story to be read. Brenda Rothert tells a story unique to her style and makes you believe in the progression and outcome.
This is not what you think when it comes to Y/A romance. It goes beyond romance and carries a heavy load in the subject matters it addresses as the storytelling progresses. The characters are carefully crafted in a jarring reality still facing youth regarding attitudes towards sex and gender roles.

For my full review, go to my blog post here

If you have questions regarding triggers for sensitive readers, please click on the spoiler link only for my personal thoughts. Be aware this is storyline spoiler.
There are several triggers that if you are sensitive that need to be addressed. The author has taken great pains to bring the ups and definite downs of high school well crafted without glamorizing. The subjects could be easily sugar coated as part of fiction, but Ms. Rothert delivers it raw and real with all the emotions for the characters. However, if you have trigger issues with underage alcohol, sex with multiple partners and bullying, be aware these themes are tackled in the storyline.



4.5 out of 5 stars ( )

This book will blow your mind and quite a few gaskets. The way young minds twist, bend and justify something that is blatantly wrong to fit their own needs is astonishing. And it is worse when the adults that are supposedly 'in charge' of them turn a blind eye and involuntarily encourage them. Such is the mental conditioning that is highlighted in 'Sweet Sixteen'. No, this book is not about a 16th birthday party. It is about traditions and rituals that we all may have at one time or the other supported or participated in without knowing the consequences or long term effects.

Brenda Rothert boldly delves into the secret lives of these young adults and exposes the innermost workings of off-campus activities that supposedly aide to help their beloved athletes relax and blow off some steam and how complacently it is received by their peers as 'normal'. This herd mentality is what leads to bullying, peer pressure, anxiety and ultimately it leads to depression and suicide. A book that all high schoolers and college students MUST READ.

I received an Advanced Reviewers Copy for voluntary review consideration. ( )