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The Season of Impossible Dreams
Elle le Blanc and Cayne Cook are outstanding junior basketball athletes playing for the same club. People say they’re going “all the way”– Olympics, World Championships, the NBA and the WNBA. And scholarship offers to the best colleges in America are tantalisingly close...
But beneath the talent and the hype are two teenagers trying to find their way. It’s their final year of school and any number of family problems could derail their dreams, including Elle’s mum's struggle with depression and Cayne’s controlling dad.
And then there’s their relationship; they’ve known each other for so long, they can’t hide their truths. But when Matt Thorn comes into the picture, things change between them forever.
CONTENT WARNING:
This work of fiction contains themes that may be distressing to some readers, including parental physical and emotional abuse, bullying, an attempted suicide, depression, drug abuse, and teen miscarriage. If you or someone you know is in crisis, please utilise the support resources listed below or contact your local emergency services.
But beneath the talent and the hype are two teenagers trying to find their way. It’s their final year of school and any number of family problems could derail their dreams, including Elle’s mum's struggle with depression and Cayne’s controlling dad.
And then there’s their relationship; they’ve known each other for so long, they can’t hide their truths. But when Matt Thorn comes into the picture, things change between them forever.
CONTENT WARNING:
This work of fiction contains themes that may be distressing to some readers, including parental physical and emotional abuse, bullying, an attempted suicide, depression, drug abuse, and teen miscarriage. If you or someone you know is in crisis, please utilise the support resources listed below or contact your local emergency services.
240 pages, Paperback
Published August 31, 2026
About the author
Marianne de Pierres
39 books491 followersMarianne de Pierres is the award winning author of the acclaimed Parrish Plessis, Sentients of Orion and Peacemaker science fiction series.
Marianne is an active supporter of genre fiction and has mentored many writers. She lives in Brisbane, Australia. Her Night Creatures series, Burn Bright, Angel Arias and Shine Light has been very popular among young adult fiction readers.
Marianne is also the Davitt award-winning author of the Tara Sharp humourous crime series under the pseudonym Marianne Delacourt.
Visit her websites at:
www.mariannedepierres.com
www.mariannedepierresbooksforchildren...
www.burnbright.com.au
www.glitterrose.wordpress.com
www.sentientsoforion.com
www.colonelthorn.home.blog
Marianne is an active supporter of genre fiction and has mentored many writers. She lives in Brisbane, Australia. Her Night Creatures series, Burn Bright, Angel Arias and Shine Light has been very popular among young adult fiction readers.
Marianne is also the Davitt award-winning author of the Tara Sharp humourous crime series under the pseudonym Marianne Delacourt.
Visit her websites at:
www.mariannedepierres.com
www.mariannedepierresbooksforchildren...
www.burnbright.com.au
www.glitterrose.wordpress.com
www.sentientsoforion.com
www.colonelthorn.home.blog
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
August 26, 2026
What I liked most was how the author wrote each character. They all had their own struggles, family problems, friendships, pressure, and dreams they were trying to reach. I found myself relating to them in different ways.
I also really loved how the story went. I kept guessing what would happen next, and honestly… I didn’t see the plot twist coming. I love it when a book keeps me guessing until the end.
The writing was simple and easy to follow,and even though the book touches on some serious topics….it was still an easy read.
Overall, this was such a relatable and emotional YA read about family, friendship and chasing your dreams. I’m really glad I got the chance to read this one.
Thank you to the author for the ARC and for giving me the chance to read this book!
I also really loved how the story went. I kept guessing what would happen next, and honestly… I didn’t see the plot twist coming. I love it when a book keeps me guessing until the end.
The writing was simple and easy to follow,and even though the book touches on some serious topics….it was still an easy read.
Overall, this was such a relatable and emotional YA read about family, friendship and chasing your dreams. I’m really glad I got the chance to read this one.
Thank you to the author for the ARC and for giving me the chance to read this book!
September 21, 2026
Ever finish a book and you are crushed that it ended? Thats exactly how I felt reading this amazing book. I’m left wanting more!
This book follows a group of teens living in a small town all with inspirations to achieve their dreams and move onto bigger and brighter things.
The town basketball teams sets the scene as you see the main characters Elle, Cayne and Matt working hard to play hard and earn the respect and attention of American college scouts. Playing basketball is their dream and gaining a scholarship is their goal. Their ticket to freedom and a big new world.
But where there is small towns and teens there is always going to be drama and this book delivered it!
There were twists and turns, small town secrets and a mystery and police investigation that threatens to undo it all.
This book kept me guessing throughout and had me flipping through the pages. The only downfall? I’m left wanting more, I’m left wanting to continue knowing what happens with these characters and I felt so invested in each and every character. The way that Marianne had me feeling so deeply for these characters in such a small time is the sign of a truly gifted author. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it
This book follows a group of teens living in a small town all with inspirations to achieve their dreams and move onto bigger and brighter things.
The town basketball teams sets the scene as you see the main characters Elle, Cayne and Matt working hard to play hard and earn the respect and attention of American college scouts. Playing basketball is their dream and gaining a scholarship is their goal. Their ticket to freedom and a big new world.
But where there is small towns and teens there is always going to be drama and this book delivered it!
There were twists and turns, small town secrets and a mystery and police investigation that threatens to undo it all.
This book kept me guessing throughout and had me flipping through the pages. The only downfall? I’m left wanting more, I’m left wanting to continue knowing what happens with these characters and I felt so invested in each and every character. The way that Marianne had me feeling so deeply for these characters in such a small time is the sign of a truly gifted author. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it
Review of advance copy received from Author
Finally! A great fictional story that encompasses the burgeoning junior Australian basketball scene, whilst acknowledging the competitive endgame of getting a scholarship in America.
Any person who grew up around the game, or has been involved in the game at the junior level will love the ease with which Marianne is able to tick many of the familiar boxes, from not wearing your boots to the gym, to Coach commanding drills as a penalty.
The primary characters map easily to central roles on every team, whilst gradually revealing individual personalities that captivate the reader as romance, hardship and tragedy unfold in a very real and engaging drama.
An absolute pleasure to read, and so compelling I had to read in one sitting!
Any person who grew up around the game, or has been involved in the game at the junior level will love the ease with which Marianne is able to tick many of the familiar boxes, from not wearing your boots to the gym, to Coach commanding drills as a penalty.
The primary characters map easily to central roles on every team, whilst gradually revealing individual personalities that captivate the reader as romance, hardship and tragedy unfold in a very real and engaging drama.
An absolute pleasure to read, and so compelling I had to read in one sitting!
July 15, 2026
“A Season of Impossible Dreams” is a suspenseful young adult mystery with basketball as a backdrop.
Teens face real issues, and their interactions with other characters are believable.
It is easy to relate to the characters through their alternating storylines. We find out how they see themselves and others, and how they deal with their problems.
The Basketball aspect of the story is handled deftly, and is drawn from Marianne’s Delacourt’s extensive
experience with the game.
Teens face real issues, and their interactions with other characters are believable.
It is easy to relate to the characters through their alternating storylines. We find out how they see themselves and others, and how they deal with their problems.
The Basketball aspect of the story is handled deftly, and is drawn from Marianne’s Delacourt’s extensive
experience with the game.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The complexities, trials and tribulations of teen life while dealing with extremely tough situations (check trigger warnings), external factors and inner turmoil are explored as we follow Matt, Elle, Cayne and their friends on their journey.
The story really nods to the fact that we never truly know what others have been through, or what they have going on at home, and how that impacts who they are and how they present themselves to the world.
Cayne's character is the one that really stood out to me. On one hand, his arrogance and ego work to his detriment, and he's labelled selfish and a jerk. On the other hand, he's under so much pressure and dealing with things no boy should have to. He lashes out when he feels threatened, and his harshness towards Matt reflects that. His dad rides him hard, and as the story progresses, we realise things are much worse than they first appear.
Elle's home life is extremely toxic, and she has a little sister to protect while trying to manage her own future.
Matt showed strength and resilience in the face of bullying while staying true to himself. He's a good guy. He stood by his friend Lexy through an impossible time, though promises were made and secrets were kept when they never should have been asked, and futures were put at risk.
These kids are dealing with some heavy stuff, mixed up in deep, dark issues. As the story progresses and the twists and turns unfold, we learn that the darkness runs deep. Some dreams are realised, others are reshaped, and some might just have to hold on... for now!
My takeaway
Teens are often carrying burdens that are not so obvious to others. It was easy to reflect on my own teen experiences and allow myself some grace. I also found myself thinking that people can be more than their mistakes, the difficult situations they find themselves in or the first impression they give. More than anything, I finished the book hoping these characters would one day find peace and achieve their dreams.
The story really nods to the fact that we never truly know what others have been through, or what they have going on at home, and how that impacts who they are and how they present themselves to the world.
Cayne's character is the one that really stood out to me. On one hand, his arrogance and ego work to his detriment, and he's labelled selfish and a jerk. On the other hand, he's under so much pressure and dealing with things no boy should have to. He lashes out when he feels threatened, and his harshness towards Matt reflects that. His dad rides him hard, and as the story progresses, we realise things are much worse than they first appear.
Elle's home life is extremely toxic, and she has a little sister to protect while trying to manage her own future.
Matt showed strength and resilience in the face of bullying while staying true to himself. He's a good guy. He stood by his friend Lexy through an impossible time, though promises were made and secrets were kept when they never should have been asked, and futures were put at risk.
These kids are dealing with some heavy stuff, mixed up in deep, dark issues. As the story progresses and the twists and turns unfold, we learn that the darkness runs deep. Some dreams are realised, others are reshaped, and some might just have to hold on... for now!
My takeaway
Teens are often carrying burdens that are not so obvious to others. It was easy to reflect on my own teen experiences and allow myself some grace. I also found myself thinking that people can be more than their mistakes, the difficult situations they find themselves in or the first impression they give. More than anything, I finished the book hoping these characters would one day find peace and achieve their dreams.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Title & Author: The Season of Impossible Dreams by Marianne de Pierres
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice Level: 0️⃣
Genres & Tropes: YA, with some emotional bursts / Secrets and kind of a coming to age / Young Romance
Pub Date & Format: August 31, 2026 via early Arc
【 QUICK THOUGHTS 】
• The Vibe: A high school coming of age vibes. But with some things that make you wonder just how resilient teens are. Reaching for goals, that may seem far away.
• What I Loved: I loved the fact that it kept it a mystery, and completely took me by surprise at the end. Makes me question things and wants answers. The characters of these teens definitely gave the right pov into the situations that arose in their eyes.
• What Didn't Work For Me: it seemed to rush through some parts, but not enough to lead me astray. I finished in 4-5 days 🤍
【 SPICE BREAKDOWN 】
• Heat Level: none really
• Content Warnings: physical/emotional abuse, depression, and vaguely talking about Drug usage.
【 FINAL VERDICT 】
• Read this if you like: YA stories of overcoming situations far above what high schoolers should have to deal with. And if you like authentic pov.
ARC Disclaimer: I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book provided by Victory Editing NetGalley Co . This review contains my honest and voluntary opinions.
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice Level: 0️⃣
Genres & Tropes: YA, with some emotional bursts / Secrets and kind of a coming to age / Young Romance
Pub Date & Format: August 31, 2026 via early Arc
【 QUICK THOUGHTS 】
• The Vibe: A high school coming of age vibes. But with some things that make you wonder just how resilient teens are. Reaching for goals, that may seem far away.
• What I Loved: I loved the fact that it kept it a mystery, and completely took me by surprise at the end. Makes me question things and wants answers. The characters of these teens definitely gave the right pov into the situations that arose in their eyes.
• What Didn't Work For Me: it seemed to rush through some parts, but not enough to lead me astray. I finished in 4-5 days 🤍
【 SPICE BREAKDOWN 】
• Heat Level: none really
• Content Warnings: physical/emotional abuse, depression, and vaguely talking about Drug usage.
【 FINAL VERDICT 】
• Read this if you like: YA stories of overcoming situations far above what high schoolers should have to deal with. And if you like authentic pov.
ARC Disclaimer: I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book provided by Victory Editing NetGalley Co . This review contains my honest and voluntary opinions.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
ARC review!!
I just finished this book and let me tell you that I was happily surprised with how it turned out!!
When I fist read the synopsys, I thought it was going to be a story about two teenagers trying to make their basketball dream come true. However, the story is much more than that. We are presented with several character, each facing their own real problems, who are fighting not only for their dreams, but also for a place in the world.
The way the story is narrated from different points of view allows you to understand each character's feelings, and I belive that it adds a very meaningful depth to the story. I also liked the way the relationships between them explores the borders between what we feel is the right thing and what is actually the right one.
Overall, it is a good YA novel that deals not only with real life problems, but also with the journey of discovering your own path in the world!!
Thank you so much to the author for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC!!
I just finished this book and let me tell you that I was happily surprised with how it turned out!!
When I fist read the synopsys, I thought it was going to be a story about two teenagers trying to make their basketball dream come true. However, the story is much more than that. We are presented with several character, each facing their own real problems, who are fighting not only for their dreams, but also for a place in the world.
The way the story is narrated from different points of view allows you to understand each character's feelings, and I belive that it adds a very meaningful depth to the story. I also liked the way the relationships between them explores the borders between what we feel is the right thing and what is actually the right one.
Overall, it is a good YA novel that deals not only with real life problems, but also with the journey of discovering your own path in the world!!
Thank you so much to the author for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Loved this book so much I read it twice! Not usually into sports-related themes but this was obviously written by someone very familiar with the game, which brought the action to life. High school sports stars in regional Australia battle through relationship and family issues while trying to score their big break in international basketball. Secrets complicate friendships and team alliances, while others come back to haunt them from their parents' generation. The biggest secret of all nearly gets someone killed. The characters were well-written and realistic. Their problems were relatable and the story-line compelling. I wouldn't be surprised if this ends up as a movie or mini-series.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The themes of this book are important, and the choice to explore a sexual assault from the point of view of all the friends of the victim, rather than the victim herself, was interesting. All four point-of-view characters have their own complete stories, which is generally a good thing, but it did make it feel like there was a lot going on. Emotionally, it felt rather rushed.
I did like the setting; both the Australian location and the world of basketball were very alive.
The blurb could definitely do with a rewrite, though: it bears very little relationship to the novel.
I did like the setting; both the Australian location and the world of basketball were very alive.
The blurb could definitely do with a rewrite, though: it bears very little relationship to the novel.
September 4, 2026
I absolutely loved The Season of Impossible Dreams. It blends ambition and vulnerability so naturally - that feeling of chasing something big while still trying to stay grounded in who you are - and the Aussie slang, culture, and basketball life make it feel like home. The emotional beats land because the world is so real, and the multiple character perspectives keep the story witty, immersive, and full of heart. It’s a brilliant read for anyone who loves basketball, is Australian, or just wants an authentic Aussie spin on the sport and the people who live it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Arc copy: My first foray into contemporary basketball fiction, this story was well paced, and the characters were all relatable in their own way. As someone who grew up with movies like The Breakfast Club this felt like a blast from the past. Multiple povs and each added to the story well. You can tell Marianne used her knowledge of basketball to her advantage. I'm keen to see what she comes out with next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thoroughly enjoyed this YA novel. The writing is very intelligent. I found the characters authentic & relatable. The structure of the novel with short, succinct chapters pushed the story forward. Without giving too much away, the handling of the DV & other issues were done with respect. There was alot of truth and authenticy in this novel.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The characters were realistically believable to be teenagers, and I found the basketball scenes to be entertaining to read about despite my lack of enthusiasm for the sport itself. This was a heavy read but I was on the edge of my seat the entire time.
Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for providing me an ARC to review.
Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for providing me an ARC to review.
October 7, 2026
The Season of Impossible Dreams is a beautifully written and captivating read. The story is heartfelt and engaging. A wonderful book that I’d happily recommend!
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews