Bookanistas: DON'T BREATHE A WORD by Holly Cupala

Plot without spoilers...Joy Delamere runs away from a family trying to protect her and a boy who is trying to own her -- but can she find freedom or safety on the streets of Seattle?

Of literary interest... In her second novel, Tell Me a Secret author Holly Cupala again explores dark issues of teen life and relationships.  Joy has asthma, so the notion of "breathing a word" is both intensely literal and richly metaphoric. How long Joy can keep secret the truths of her abusive romance, her real identity, and even the dangers of her disease keeps the book racing forward.

Finally, just gotta say...I was fascinated by the way Cupala slowly reveals the details of what happened between desperate Joy and dark, angry Asher, adding a layer of mystery to this gritty, realistic tale. I also loved the way asthma works as a plot element and leitmotif throughout the novel. While I've seen several asthma-themed picture books, the incorporation of breathing issues into a work of YA fiction is unusual and it's been done wonderfully well here--exploring the medical and emotional issues associated with this Joy's life-threatening condition.  An intense, fascinating and important read.

And here's where you'll find more Bookanista book love this week...

Elana Johnson roars for FURY
Shannon Whitney Messenger marvels at A MILLION SUNS plus a preorder giveaway
Shelli Johannes-Wells swoons for UNDER THE NEVER SKY
Carolina Valdez Miller is all about HERE with giveaway
Gretchen McNeil twirls for AUDITION
Corrine Jackson hails THE CATASTROPHIC HISTORY OF ME AND YOU
Katy Upperman gets in the spirit with ELF ON A SHELF
Nikki Katz dishes on WHY WE BROKE UP