Words in Deep BlueCath Crowley
projected publication date: June 2017
5/5 stars
Rachel is in a deep depression after the death of her brother, and for a change of scene, moves back to her home town to live with her aunt. While there, she reconnects with her former best friend, Henry, on whom she had a massive crush before she moved away. Working with him in his family's second hand bookshop, she finds herself drawn to him again. The bookshop has an unusual feature: the Letter Library. These are permanent books for the purpose of highlighting favorite passages or even leaving letters in for other people. One of the best parts of this Words in Deep Blue is reading the notes left in various books, plus the discussion of books by the characters. Crowley herself leaves a note for the reader; a wonderful surprise and an fantastic addition.
Crowley is an fine writer, and I was immediately captured by the plot and the realistic (and flawed) characters. This is a quick read, but one that I feel will stay with the reader for some time. In addition, Crowley gives some excellent book recommendations through her characters.
Words in Deep Blue is a teen love story, yes, but it's also a story about dealing with grief, taking chances, as well as a celebration of the written word. I highly recommend it, especially for young adults that love books and the words therein.
Note: for adults that might not want a teen love story, a similar book is The Storied Life of A J Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin, another 5 star read.
