Ratings: 5 Stars
Genre: YA, Novel
ASIN: B0831SK4JV
File Size: 2695 KB
ISBN-10:1595730117
ISBN-13: 978-1595730114
Pages: 258

A brilliant teen, an evil sister and her mother, a mutually-agreed-upon relationship, and a handsome new beau are the principal characters in the YA novel, Steel Strings by Alex Hayes. Subtitled A Chameleon Effect, I did not perceive the adoption of the postures, gestures, and mannerisms of interacting partners. Except for her pretend smiles, this is more of a self-realization and acceptance story.

Brianna Jones is taunted by her older sister and has felt unwanted by mother her whole life. Brianna’s only surety is her dream of creating orchestral instruments for recycled materials.

The story vacillates between Brianna’s point of view and Marek’s, her new beau and lab partner. This tool allows for character development and a way to pace the story which unfolds over the Christmas Holiday break. The ending is revealing, though various incidents foreshadow what will happen.

If you like reading YA coming of age novels with a bit of romance, you will enjoy Steel Strings.