Standing Too Close

by Kate Larkindale

~Editor's Pick~

Seventeen-year-old Blue Lannigan believes in exactly one thing: his two younger brothers deserve more than the crappy apartment and abusive, drunken mother they’re stuck with. And when he comes home to find one brother bruised and bleeding (again), the other cowering in terror (again) and their mother drunk off her ass, blaming all three of them for her tanked singing career (again), Blue decides waiting until he’s 18 to leave is no longer an option.

Deciding to hole up in an empty house at the lake until Blue can figure out what to do next, things get more complicated when the owner of the house arrives unexpectedly. Especially when Blue realizes the unconscious woman they’ve tied up on the couch isn’t a stranger after all, but someone who could give him just what he’s looking for.

After avoiding reality and playing house, a scene at the grocery store lands him in handcuffs and his brothers with a social worker. Add to that losing his job and being stuck in a group home he hates, and Blue’s sole purpose becomes finding his brothers and getting them out of whatever hellhole they’re in. Blue’s hopes unravel, and betrayal rips his heart in two as he tries to reconcile the role he plays in his brothers’ lives while trying to figure out his own.

280 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 8, 2025

About the author

Having spent a lifetime travelling the globe, Kate Larkindale settled in Wellington, New Zealand. An arts administrator, fitness instructor, film reviewer and mother, she’s surprised she finds any time to write, but doesn’t sleep much. As a result, she can usually be found hanging out near the espresso machine.

She is the author of contemporary YA novels The Sidewalk's Regrets, An Unstill Life, Chasing the Taillights, My Murder Year, Standing Too Close and Stumped along with several others that no one is allowed to see. She has also written one very bad historical romance, which will likely never see the light of day. She is working on several more YA novels that may or may not ever be finished…

Her short stories have appeared in Just Above Water anthology, Halfway Down The Stairs, A Fly in Amber, Daily Flash Anthology, The Barrier Islands Review, Everyday Fiction, Death Rattle, Drastic Measures, Cutlass & Musket, Kissed anthology, Just Me anthology and Residential Aliens, among others.

Reviews

[Jenni · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 – 4 stars

Standing Too Close is a poignant and deeply moving narrative that centres around the life of a seventeen-year-old young man named Blue. Determined to carve out a better existence for himself and his younger siblings, Blue struggles to break free from the grip of their tumultuous and abusive home life, constantly haunted by the shadows of their alcoholic mother.

In a brave moment of desperation, Blue and his brothers make the heart-wrenching decision to flee, embarking on a perilous journey fraught with unforeseen challenges that test their resilience and bond. As they navigate a world that feels overwhelmingly hostile, they grapple not only with their survival but also with the complexities of their individual identities.

The story is rich in emotion, painting a vivid picture of the pain, suffering, and violence that punctuate their lives. Yet, amidst the turmoil, it shines a light on the themes of strength and innocence, exploring the profound love and loyalty between the brothers. Moments of humour provide brief respites from the tension, reminding readers of their humanity and the warmth that can exist even in dark times.

Blue and his siblings bear the heavy burden of their tumultuous upbringing, marked by physical scars and the psychological toll of their experiences. The fear of being torn apart looms large, adding weight to their heartfelt struggles and uncertainties.

Prepare yourself for a deeply affecting journey that will leave you reaching for tissues, as you find yourself longing to embrace these characters and offer them the love and comfort they so desperately need.

[Mikayla Young · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Kate Larkindale for supplying me with a copy of the book for reading and review in return for an honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own, representing my personal thoughts, reading experience, and reflections on the book.

The characters in this novel are not just realistic; they are deeply relatable and intricately well-developed, drawing readers into their emotional journeys. The protagonist, Blue, is a 17-year-old who embodies a remarkable blend of wisdom, love, and loyalty that far exceeds the expectations of his age. His character is painted with layers of complexity, showcasing not only his determination to protect and care for his younger brothers but also the immense responsibility he shoulders at such a tender age. Blue's commitment to his family is evident in his daily actions, as he navigates the challenges of adolescence while striving to create a stable environment for Sage and Wiley. Sage, the middle sibling, offers a unique perspective shaped by his youthful innocence, while Wiley, the youngest, represents the unfiltered curiosity and vulnerability of childhood. Together, these brothers create a dynamic that showcases the strength, determination, and playful camaraderie typical among siblings, even in the face of adversity. Their interactions are laced with humor and affection, providing moments of levity amidst the darker themes of the narrative.

Minor characters, like Jude, are more than just background elements; they enhance the story by expanding its narrative depth. Jude acts as a mentor, providing important perspectives on the challenges of losing loved ones and illustrating how loss and grief can impact individuals in various ways. Her encounters with loss, difficulty in expressing emotions, and resistance to change resonate profoundly, offering readers a way to grasp the intricacies of supporting those who are struggling.

Blue's mother, on the other hand, is a poignant representation of the destructive impact of addiction. Her character serves as a stark reminder of how addiction can unravel family ties, leading to heartbreak, anger, and ultimately the loss of loved ones, hope, happiness, and health. The portrayal of her struggles adds depth to the narrative, illustrating the multifaceted nature of addiction and its ripple effects on family dynamics. The settings within the novel are depicted with striking realism, effectively establishing the scenes and actions that unfold throughout the plot. Each location is meticulously crafted, immersing readers in the world that Blue and his brothers inhabit. The writing style is both descriptive and immersive, allowing readers to forge emotional connections with the characters and their circumstances. As the story unfolds, the plot reveals itself to be well-constructed and plausible, although certain elements, such as the evolving relationship between Jude and Blue, as well as the consequences faced by Blue's mother, feel somewhat unresolved. These nuances may leave readers yearning for more closure, yet they also reflect the complexities of real life, where not all stories have neat endings. Overall, the significance of "Standing Too Close" by Kate Larkindale cannot be overstated. It is a powerful narrative that reflects real-life situations where children endure abuse or have family members grappling with addiction, often leading them to group or foster homes. The journey that Blue and his brothers undertake is fraught with challenges and uncertainties, encapsulating the harsh realities many young people face today. This novel imparts important lessons about trust, family, relationships, and the pervasive impact of addiction on everyone involved. It poignantly highlights how the instinct to protect and care for loved ones can sometimes lead to profound personal sacrifices, forcing individuals to grapple with their own needs and desires. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to readers aged 17 and above who are in search of a contemporary novel that not only entertains but also sheds light on the myriad struggles faced by children and families navigating the turbulent waters of addiction and familial strife. "Standing Too Close" is not just a story; it is a mirror reflecting the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

[Jazzy Manning · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am incredibly grateful to Kate Larkindale for the opportunity to read and review Standing Too Close. Being selected to explore this captivating story has been such a treat, and I can’t wait to share my thoughts on it with all of you. A huge thank you to Kate Larkindale for their generosity and for making this reading experience possible.

I truly have no idea where to start with this review. My heart is just well and truly broken after reading this book.

Blue is such a likeable character and what he has been through is absolutely atrocious but I can’t help but feel like his experiences are what shaped him as a person. How those experiences shaped him are why he’s so likeable and endearing but my heart absolutely breaks for him. No kid deserves such a life.

My heart felt like it would fall out of my chest with every page turn.

I think the hardest part about reading this book is knowing that there are kids out there that do go through this kind of thing and I just hope that all of those very real children have someone looking out for them and they have better opportunities in the future.

Standing Too Close is beautifully tragic.

Some scenes were a little uncomfortable to read. After everything Blue and his brothers went through with their home life, I can’t help but feel like Blue was failed once again by someone that should’ve helped him.

Blue may well be a fictional character but I hope he has the very best life in his fictional world. I hope that he remains close with Sage and Wiley. I hope that he is surrounded by people that genuinely love and support him.

Standing Too Close is a book I couldn’t put down. I was spiralling page after page after page. It was a hard hitter, that’s for sure.

I both loved it and hated it.

I loved the author’s writing style and the book as a whole but I absolutely hate what these poor fictional characters had to go through. But hey, that’s the sign of a good author right? One that makes you feel things about fictional people as if they were real.

[Charlisa Wahtomy-Alba · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blue has been wise beyond his years for who knows how long. He has not only been taking care of his younger brothers as long as he can remember but his mother as well. His mother had once been a successful singer but due to bad choices she has lost her career. After coming home to an all too familiar scene he decides that he can't wait until his 18th birthday comes. He needs to get himself and his brother's out of this situation before it's too late. They find an empty lake house and plan to stay for several days until they come up with a solid plan, however that goes south fairly quickly when the owner decides to also use the cabin for the weekend. Things get out of hand at the local grocery store which lands Blue in cuffs and his brother's with social services. All Blue wants to do is keep his brothers with him, he is all they have. This story was raw and emotional. I can very much relate to Blue being the oldest child and keeping the younger siblings safe. This story hit close to home for me as I could have ended up split from my siblings if not for my grandparents. The emotions this author can bring out and how she makes the characters feel real really drew me in. I don't believe I have read other books by this author but I will definitely be looking for more of their work.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an interesting story! I was completely captivated by the story and these characters. These are tough situations and trying to figure out what to do in this situation is even tougher when you are under age. I felt sorry for blue as much as I admired what he was trying to do. As his feelings came out I was very proud of him. Overall, this is a good story that tugs on your heart strings a little bit. The flow is so good I found myself easily turning pages. This is a new to me author and I will keep an eye out for future stories.

[Felicia Bates · Rating 4 out of 5]

I tend to download ebooks after reading the synopsis and then get around to reading them once I’ve forgotten. This book was no exception. Standing Too Close by Kate Larkindale was a very well written and “enjoyable” despite the subject matter. The plot was heavy at times but the characters, Blue especially, really tug at your heart strings. I enjoyed the book overall. The writing style was strong and realistic and as mentioned before, the characters are strong and likeable. I am absolutely interested in reading more from this author.

[Trina Bagley]

Blue is a 17-year-old who wants nothing more than to give his younger brothers, Sage and Wiley, a better life. Their mother is an abusive alcoholic addict. Blue feels it’s his responsibility to protect his brothers from their mother’s assaults. He quits school and goes to work full-time so he can find a place to live away from his mother. This book is heart-wrenching because the characters are so real. You can feel the pain coming from the boys. Blue is trying to figure things out but he’s just a kid himself.

[Chell Conner · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is about a young boy and taking care of his brothers at his mother’s expense to be a failure as a parent. I can relate to this story very well because I was always doing the things my mother couldn’t as a child and having to watch my siblings while she worked constantly. Like Blue’s mother she wasn’t much of a parent and that’s what helps me relate to the main character a lot. This book is full of emotion and what he tries to do as a brother raising his siblings to avoid being put in a home.

5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Finn Cunningham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Standing Too Close by Kate Larkindale is an incredibly emotional read, and one that I latched onto for several personal reasons. Blue and I are very alike in many ways, and that made this read a simultaneous beautiful and heartwrenching rollar coaster. I fear this is simple one of those books you just have to read for yourself, as words dont really do it justice for me. I simply applaud Kate, and I highly recommend you stop reading my review and go read her book!

[Cindy Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had me engaged since the first chapter. I couldn't put it down! This book is very emotional as I felt exactly what the boys were feeling. Half way through I wanted to put it down and give it a few days because I was getting too emotional, but a few hours later, I just had to now so I kept going. The ending was not what I thought it would be, it was better! This bookwas fantastic.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

An enjoyable, engaging and emotional YA novel which kept me captivated throughout. Seventeen-year-old Blue lives in a crappy apartment with his drunk, abusive mother and two younger brothers. Having found his brothers bruised, bleeding and cowering in terror one too many times he takes them and leaves. They find an empty house at the Lake, but when the owner arrives Blue panics. He then realises that the unconscious woman they have tied up isn’t a stranger. Following an incident at a shop Blue is arrested and a social worker takes his brothers. Having ended up in a group home which he hates, Blue’s only focus is being reunited with his brothers. However, he must accept his new role in their lives whilst making a life for himself. This is an extremely heartwarming and heartbreaking story and I definitely needed a box of tissues! Blue and his brothers are such realistic and relatable characters that I felt invested in their lives. The storyline drew me in and the characters kept me reading, staying with me long after the last page.

[Mani · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Standing Too Close” takes us on the journey of 17-year-old Blue, a determined young man who wants to create a brighter future for his younger brothers and protect them from their mother, who struggles with alcoholism and can be abusive.

This heartfelt story is beautifully written and really pulls you in. Even though it tackles some heavy themes, it’s still an enjoyable read. There are a few uncomfortable moments, and it’s tough to think about the many children who suffer, unlike Blue and his brothers who are lucky enough to have each other.

I really loved the characters—they felt so real and relatable! Each one is well-developed, and it’s easy to connect with their emotional journeys. The side characters are also fantastic and add a lot to the story, bringing even more depth to the overall experience.

All in all, “Standing Too Close” is an engaging read that I found hard to put down! It’s a story that sticks with you long after you finish it.

A huge thank you to Kate for reaching out and sharing a digital review copy of this fantastic book with me. All my thoughts here are entirely my own, and I’m really excited to share them with you voluntarily!

[Marissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was not emotionally ready for this book. It had some moments that I was not prepared for. But we made it through to the other side. This coming of age tale is more than just about Blue. It is about his relationship with his brothers and the person Blue wants/needs to be. There are triggers everywhere, so be sure to read the warnings.

Blue has a difficult life. His mother was a singer. She toured all the time, making his early years different. But what really caused the issues were the men that hung around or on his mother. They bled her dry, fed her substances, used her body and then left her. Blue got brothers from two of those men. Blue became the parent not only to his younger brothers but to his mom and her habit.


When she injures Sage, the middle brother, Blue has enough and takes Sage and Wiley, the youngest. They decide on a plan and run. They go to a nearby lake surrounded by summer homes, sneak into one, and plan to ride out several days until they can come up with a better plan than just getting away from their mom. It would have worked, too, if the owner of the one house they picked hadn’t decided to spend the weekend at the lake. Ooof, the problems this caused. Then things get worse when Blue goes grocery shopping. The drama.

This next part is what loses me. Yes, I get what happened and why it happened but it would not have happened that way IRL. Which is my own hang up. I know this. But it changes my opinion of the book. You will have to read the story to understand. That is just not the way it would happen. Okay. Moving on.

Blue realizing that he is more than just a big brother is heartwrenching. He deserved more than that life but am super glad the family understood what they boys needed, each other.

Prepare yourself for the emotional rollercoaster. It is worth it.

[Roxsanne Lesieur · Rating 4 out of 5]

Blue Lannigan is seventeen, he has two brothers and they live with their mum, but it isn't a good place to be, she is a drunken, abusive mess and Blue has been able to shoulder the most of the burden of keeping the family afloat in the crappy apartment, in a bad area, however, when the abuse turns on his younger brothers, he knows it is time to leave.

Unfortunately for Blue and his brothers, they have limited resources and only a small amount of time to pack, so with everything they own in a rucksack and bin bag and head on a bus to the Lake where there are bound to be some empty houses where they can shelter temporarily. The only piece of luck they have is someone passing by who believes that Blue is heading the same way he is, but someone who doesn't notice the two young boys who are also tagging along and this takes some time and hardship off their journey through the middle of the night.

The three brothers eventually find somewhere and they hole up for the night, just the next day, an unexpected visitor turns out to be someone Blue knows, but also someone who may be able to help them, so as over the next few days, a makeshift partnership is agreed and life starts to fall into an oddly comforting routine, that is until a supermarket trip is needed and an uncomfortable confrontation ensues leaving Blue in handcuffs, his brothers taken away and a return to a system he has been dreading for them all, not to mention losing his job.

As the weeks pass, all Blue wants to do is find his brothers and keep them safe, but will he be able to provide the stability that they need, or will the system swallow them up and end up being worse than the home life that they fled? This is a challenging read which deals with humanity both at its best and worst, as you follow along with Blue and his brothers as they navigate life and all that comes with it.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blue Lannigan is the picture of a parentified child. He’s been looking after his two younger brothers Sage (14) and Wiley (8) for as long as he can remember. First it was in the back of stages and seedy hotels while their mother, Tabby Lannigan performed throughout the world. Later it was to keep them out of the path of her violent temper when the hit records no longer materialized, and she descended into drugs and booze. Ten months from his 18th birthday it all comes to a head, and Blue, forges his mom’s name on paperwork that allows him to quit school and get a full-time job. Blue is super responsible and knows he has to get the three of the out of there before someone gets killed. The system has let them down once already, so he does not want history to repeat itself, but what is ahead of him is the bumpiest road he never could have imagined.

Larkindale is a gifted writer who transports the reader into a world that raises multiple ethical issues surrounding “what is best” for children caught up in the violent, downward spiral of a parent who can no longer provide a safe, stable environment. Her writing is so descriptive that at one point, I could feel the cold air, the snow whipping, and the mistrust mingled with yearning at the heart of her characters. There is a morally challenging relationship portrayed that may prove be disturbing for some readers, but which adds to the pathos of the entire story. Join Blue as his story unfolds, “(I) don’t go looking for disaster around every corner. I’m just unsurprised when I find it.” and learn the fate of his younger siblings as they navigate through their world of secrets and lies.

[Phylis Carpenter · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a different kind of read than I usually do. I usually read love stories or sometimes books that make you think a little more about certain topics. This book is a very emotional read that deals with child abuse and makes your emotions go all over the place.

Blue has a drunken mother who used to be a singing star. Her career failed so now she has taken to drinking. She is abusive to her children and he wants to get them away from that. It is a very good book but at the time it is a bit much for me to take on. But I plugged through it.

I am a Domestic Violence Survivor and I think that made it easier for me to relate to the story but also harder because it brought back all the feelings from my situation. If there was a trigger warning I did not see it.

I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys this kind of story. It was well written and the cast of characters were good. The author did a really good job portraying the story so that you felt like you were right there.

[Santana · Rating 4 out of 5]

This YA novel was emotional, raw, and completely gripping. Seventeen-year-old Blue lives in a rundown apartment with his alcoholic, abusive mother and his two younger brothers. After finding them hurt and terrified one too many times, he finally takes them and runs. They hide in an empty lake house, but things spiral when the owner shows up and Blue panics. From there, his world unravels. He’s arrested, his brothers are taken by social services, and he’s placed in a group home he hates. All he wants is to be with his brothers again, but he has to face what his role in their lives really means while also figuring out his own future.

This story is both heartbreaking and heartwarming. Blue and his brothers are written so real and relatable that it’s impossible not to get attached to the trio. Their bond is the heart of the book, and watching Blue struggle between being a brother and a parent is gut-wrenching.

It’s not an easy read. There are plenty of triggers, making a big impact. Grab a box of kleenex and strap in for the emotional rollercoaster you are about to ride.

[Bobbi Wagner · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a new author for me which I enjoyed reading my first book. I enjoyed this author’s ability to pull me into the characters' world from the beginning. I also enjoyed their creative characters that took me on an emotional roller coaster ride. They are engaging and supportive of each other. I found this book to be a well written story that is hard to put down. A story about Blue. He has a troubled family life and is just tired of it so he holes up in an empty house. He finds an unconscious female on the couch and the owner just came home. This is where the story changes for Blue and things go down hill for him. What happens is something you do not want to miss. Blue is a great character that I can relate to and made me feel for him. I enjoyed watching his growth throughout which had me turning pages fast. This is a fast paced, hard to put down story that is easy and entertaining to read. I enjoyed reading this book and I highly recommend it.

[Kerry carr · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really emotionally charged read. The authors writing is captivating and I couldnt help being dragged into the story of Blue and his family. This is a story of family, heartache, betrayals, but also courage, hope, determination and so much more.

Blue and his brothers don't have an easy life. Living with an alcoholic mother the responsibility of care falls on Blues shoulders. After dropping out of school he is determined to make a better life for himself and his brothers.
After leaving their mother then set up home in what they think is an abandoned house. But that's not the case.
What follows is a story of struggle and survival while Blue fights to not only figure out his own life, overcome betrayal and also save and protect his brothers.

This was a really moving story which I couldn't put down. I was completely invested in Blue from beginning to end and I love how through everything his main focus was always on protecting his brothers.

[Tausha Treadway · Rating 5 out of 5]

Standing Too Close by Kate Larkindale. This was a truly emotional book but it was sooo good. It's the story of Blue who is 17 years old and living a life of hell with his younger brothers and his alcoholic mother. He's been planning on leaving with his brothers as soon as he turns 18 but after one particular bad drunken incident with his mother abusing his brothers he decides he can't wait any longer. Blue's mother was a singer and she blamed Blue for her career flopping so she turned to alcohol. When Blue runs with his brothers they end up at the lake in a house that is empty. The next morning someone shows up at the door and they end up in a very fragile arrangement and they end up living with each other and get in a steady routine. One fateful trip to the grocery store ends up with Blue in jail and the boys all back in the system. All Blue wants to do when he gets out is find his brothers and get custody of them. This is such an emotional book that could very easy be real life.

[Dawn Daughenbaugh · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars
Standing Too Close by Kate Larkindale

Standing Too Close is a YA that will have you turning the pages till the end. This is a fairly new author to me and I’m definitely going to check out what other books they have written. This story is packed with drama, secrets, family drama, betrayal, and so much more. What an emotional rollercoaster ride this story took me on. Blue comes from a very troubled family which consists of younger siblings and a drunken mom. Blue is tired of it all holes up in an abandoned house . He finds a woman who is unconscious on the couch and the owner of the property just came home. Things get intense and had me on the edge of my seat. I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. Im looking forward to reading more from this Author.

[Ashleigh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Standing Too Close is the story of Blue Lannigan, who is just trying to escape the abusive household from her mother’s alcoholism. Touching on very deep, dark topics, this YA novel is heart-wrenching but centers on family bonds, grief, and the weight of responsibility. When Blue runs from her home, witnessing her brother being beaten and sweating in fear, she knows if she doesn’t leave now, she never will. Hiding out in a Lakehouse, thinking this will be a good shelter in this storm. But finding a prisoner, tied up, was not on her bingo card.
As things spiral out of control, Blue must find a new footing in this life if she wants to make it out alive. Kate Larkindale is a new-to-me author, but I instantly fell in love with this book. I can’t wait to see what else this author comes up with, as she will be an auto-buy for me in the future.

[Shannen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Since this was my first venture into Kate Larkindale’s work, I wasn’t sure what to expect. This book hits hard and fast. I was drawn into this incredibly emotional, gripping and fully captivating book starting with the cover. What I appreciate is that it avoids the ‘bandwagon’ look of so many covers that imitate current bestsellers. This author has such a talent for making the reader experience the story which makes it even more emotional. I rooted for Blue from page one because he is doing whatever he can to protect his little brothers from a nightmare of a home. The plot takes some wild turns but somehow it all works. It’s raw, messy and emotionally charged with moments that punch you right in the gut. With heart, grit, and a desperate kind of hope that keeps you reading, it’s not always an easy ride but it’s definitely worth every single page.

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

Standing Too Close by Kate Larkindale is a character driven family saga with heartaching emotion, tension, drama, darker tones (abuse, domestic violence, substance abuse, addiction etc), betrayal, loss, family/sibling bonds + dynamics, facing adversity, challenges, and sacrifice.
This tugged on my heartstrings, and I quickly became invested in Blue and his siblings story. His determination, dedication to staying together as a family unit, courage, resilience, and sacrifices – and reading what they had been through and what ensued from there - made for an angsty and emotional read.
The darker, emotional, raw, and gritty elements were balanced well with some humour and the endearing connection between Blue and his siblings.
Happy Reading…

[Kristi McChurin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Seventeen-year-old Blue has been forced to grow up far too soon. With a mother lost to addiction and chaos, he becomes the only steady hand in his younger brothers’ lives. He fights every day to shield them, to give them the love and security they deserve.

But one mistake changes everything. In a single, devastating moment, Blue loses the very people he swore to protect.

Now, he’s left with nothing but guilt, questions, and the desperate hope of putting his family back together. To find his brothers, Blue must find himself first—learning what it means not just to survive, but to become the man he was always meant to be.

Raw, emotional, and unforgettable, this story will break your heart and piece it back together—reminding you just how far love will go to keep a family whole.

[Gabrielle Lee · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is an emotional story of a young man who is trying to make life better for himself and his younger brothers. Life has dealt them a bad deal and Blue must take things into his own hands and fight for their survival. This story will pull at your heart and have you believing in the strength of the bond of family. These young children go through so much and have the strength to survive, fighting for what they should have received with out question. It was nice to see Blue begin to grow into a strong man and the bond that the brothers have as life moves them forward. Blue shows an inner strength and growth through all of his trials. Showing the reader, the different paths life can take you.

[Brandy Jo Rymer · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is not for the faint of heart or for younger readers, so be advised!
Standing Too Close by Kate Larkindale is such an intense story of children who are living in an abusive household. They grow up way before their time as they navigate a life of secrets, abandonment, and dealing with a mom who struggles with her addictions. This book was heart-wrenching; it had me upset throughout the story as I read about all of the trials that our main character, Blue, and his brothers have to fight to survive. I was in tears by the end of the story, hoping that we would finally get to see these poor children find a life worth living, and that they might find peace from the experiences that they had to live through.
@Brandy Rymer
09/2025

[Lana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kate Larkindale is a new author for me but this is definitely not the only book of hers I will read.
Really enjoyed this story, it has everything I look for in a book, emotion, drama, feel good and intense moments
I immediately felt all the emotions that Blue had and his struggles with his life. The love and hard work and risks and the sacrifices he was willing to make to keep his brothers safe.
The small twist of the lake house to me was a little bit different but I was ok with it and it was nice to see a happier side, even if briefly, for the boys.
The ending really got me emotional as it ended the boys previous life and melts into a new life full of happiness and love
Definitely recommend reading!

[Brandy L Vaughn · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Standing Too Close" by Kate Larkindale is an emotionally gripping novel that masterfully explores the complexities of love, loss, and personal growth. Larkindale's characters are richly developed, drawing readers into their struggles and triumphs with genuine authenticity. Her vivid storytelling and heartfelt prose make every page compelling, offering a narrative that resonates long after the final chapter. This book is a must-read for anyone who appreciates deep, character-driven stories filled with emotional depth and poignant moments.

[Lavonne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a well written, fast read. Follow Blue as he navigates life with a “difficult” mother. He has to learn how to realize what he needs and wants out of life. Realizing that his needs are important is something all new to him. This does feature references of abuse, so be kind to yourself.