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Sway
Saskia Brookes has always tried her best to do the right thing. So why has she been forgotten? Her rebellious best friend Eliza is drifting away, and her parents are preoccupied with bigger issues than Saskia's loneliness. Asit is, her bratty little sister has a better love life than she does - it's just not fair!
Saskia, keen to find her purpose, volunteers to help thwart the plans of the impending local New Age (read: evil) festival. It's for a good cause, and it doesn't hurt that her church's charming young pastor is the organiser of the whole undertaking.
But unexpected developments show her the highs and lows of human nature, along with the thrill of first love, causing her to re-examine all she holds dear as she stands on the daunting (and often confusing) precipice of adulthood.
Will the winds of change tempt her to sway, or prompt her to ramp up her faith and pray?
Saskia, keen to find her purpose, volunteers to help thwart the plans of the impending local New Age (read: evil) festival. It's for a good cause, and it doesn't hurt that her church's charming young pastor is the organiser of the whole undertaking.
But unexpected developments show her the highs and lows of human nature, along with the thrill of first love, causing her to re-examine all she holds dear as she stands on the daunting (and often confusing) precipice of adulthood.
Will the winds of change tempt her to sway, or prompt her to ramp up her faith and pray?
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Published January 1, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
June 15, 2017
I found Michelle Ham's 'Sway' an enjoyable and absorbing journey into the lost world of 90s teenagers. Michelle's delight in the creative use of language and the weaving of a tantalising narrative shone through, as did a distinct tenderness for her characters. A sweet and clever read with plenty of unexpected twists and turns!
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June 20, 2022We follow teenager Saskia who is funny, smart and strong as she goes about her life which is full of teenage drama, best friends, boyfriend love interests and her heavy involvement in the local Church.
Firstly there's her best friend Eliza - she's recently turned goth and is distancing herself from the Church and vocally questioning their beliefs and attitudes - as well as Saskia's.
Secondly there is local 'cool guy' Jesse who kind of skulks around, following Saskia and while early on teases her, their banter quickly moves into much more. As readers we also see another side to Jesse as he shares his family and past with Saskia and he quickly becomes a very likeable character.
Saskia also has a huge crush on the Church Pastor Liam as she tries to impress him and grab any opportunity to hang out with him... however... without giving anything away...this aspect certainly develops further as the story unfolds....
Alongside the Church Saskia is fighting with her sister, fighting with Eliza and battling an ongoing feeling of not fitting in and questioning whether she is 'remarkable enough.' There's also the underlying issue of her missing brother and throughout the story we are never really sure where or why he has gone.
Yes there are strong religious themes in this text as each of the characters offer up their opinions, beliefs and values and we follow Saskia as she navigates her way through it all. Saskia is growing up, falling in love, facing heartbreak, dealing with friendships, faith, boyfriends and racist and homophobic locals - she is one busy teenage girl!
Well done Michele Ham on this book.
Firstly there's her best friend Eliza - she's recently turned goth and is distancing herself from the Church and vocally questioning their beliefs and attitudes - as well as Saskia's.
Secondly there is local 'cool guy' Jesse who kind of skulks around, following Saskia and while early on teases her, their banter quickly moves into much more. As readers we also see another side to Jesse as he shares his family and past with Saskia and he quickly becomes a very likeable character.
Saskia also has a huge crush on the Church Pastor Liam as she tries to impress him and grab any opportunity to hang out with him... however... without giving anything away...this aspect certainly develops further as the story unfolds....
Alongside the Church Saskia is fighting with her sister, fighting with Eliza and battling an ongoing feeling of not fitting in and questioning whether she is 'remarkable enough.' There's also the underlying issue of her missing brother and throughout the story we are never really sure where or why he has gone.
Yes there are strong religious themes in this text as each of the characters offer up their opinions, beliefs and values and we follow Saskia as she navigates her way through it all. Saskia is growing up, falling in love, facing heartbreak, dealing with friendships, faith, boyfriends and racist and homophobic locals - she is one busy teenage girl!
Well done Michele Ham on this book.
February 14, 2019
LOVE the book!
March 27, 2020
If I could sum up this book in three ways it would be: easy to understand, atmospheric and passionate.
April 26, 2018
I surprisingly really enjoyed this book, not surprisingly in a bad way, but surprisingly because I'm not really into reading romantic type novels. I've experiences in the past where I'd begin a romance novel and never finish them purely because it's not as interesting as I hoped it would be or it gets a little too cheesy and predictable. And that's one thing I like about this novel, that it's not overly predictable because once one good thing happens, something bad comes along and tramples it, and vise versa - essentially keeping you on your toes. The novel's plot centrals around seventeen year-old high school student, Saskia Brookes (which is an awesome name by the way), who deals with a lot of change during her last year of high school, including her romantic, friendship and family life - and explore how she balances them out equally in her life.
I love the cover, though it may seem simple and bland at first, once you read it, it really corresponds with the overall nature of the novel, so does its title. 'Sway', a four letter word that may mean different things. For me, it means to change or shift. Change with the time, change who you want to really be, and be honest with yourself even if it may seem hard at first. You just have to be willing to put in effort for you to change, and it doesn't necessarily just mean physically, but emotionally and psychologically too.
Overall, I would really recommend reading this beautifully written novel to everyone, even if you're not a bug fan of romance because this novel might just change your mind, like it did to me. So please be sure to give it some love and recognition and get it a try and I promise you, you won't regret it.
I love the cover, though it may seem simple and bland at first, once you read it, it really corresponds with the overall nature of the novel, so does its title. 'Sway', a four letter word that may mean different things. For me, it means to change or shift. Change with the time, change who you want to really be, and be honest with yourself even if it may seem hard at first. You just have to be willing to put in effort for you to change, and it doesn't necessarily just mean physically, but emotionally and psychologically too.
Overall, I would really recommend reading this beautifully written novel to everyone, even if you're not a bug fan of romance because this novel might just change your mind, like it did to me. So please be sure to give it some love and recognition and get it a try and I promise you, you won't regret it.
January 26, 2022
YA contemporary fiction -
I think you can learn so many things from this book. It presents some very delicate issues in a very balanced and sensitive way. I must admit that I did think at the beginning this might be more sermon-like, but I was very pleasantly surprised by the complexity of the many situations it presented and the manner in which they were presented.
The issues were dealt with in a way that was both subtle and yet direct. I know that may not sound possible, but once you read this story, you will understand. Things in this book, are definitely not what they first appear to be.
The author has jammed pack this story with topics that affect so many young adults. Mental illness, broken homes, racism, sexism, abuse and different family structures. Mostly it presents the idea that we shouldn't assume anything about anyone. Everyone has a story and a reason for being who they are and you need to listen to them, before you judge them. This book also teaches you that sometimes you don't agree with someone, but that doesn't make them wrong.
Ultimately this is a beautiful love story. It is a love story on so many levels. Love of values, love of family, love of friends, love of church, love of self. It is a story about forgiveness and moving on with your life. It is a story about hope. It is a story about acceptance and understanding. It is a story about learning that things are never what they seem, everyone has something in their life to deal with.
I am so glad to have received this book as part of a giveaway prize. It was such a pleasant surprise as I got to know these diverse characters and was let into their lives. I feel that I would like to keep in touch with these characters and see what their futures bring.
I think you can learn so many things from this book. It presents some very delicate issues in a very balanced and sensitive way. I must admit that I did think at the beginning this might be more sermon-like, but I was very pleasantly surprised by the complexity of the many situations it presented and the manner in which they were presented.
The issues were dealt with in a way that was both subtle and yet direct. I know that may not sound possible, but once you read this story, you will understand. Things in this book, are definitely not what they first appear to be.
The author has jammed pack this story with topics that affect so many young adults. Mental illness, broken homes, racism, sexism, abuse and different family structures. Mostly it presents the idea that we shouldn't assume anything about anyone. Everyone has a story and a reason for being who they are and you need to listen to them, before you judge them. This book also teaches you that sometimes you don't agree with someone, but that doesn't make them wrong.
Ultimately this is a beautiful love story. It is a love story on so many levels. Love of values, love of family, love of friends, love of church, love of self. It is a story about forgiveness and moving on with your life. It is a story about hope. It is a story about acceptance and understanding. It is a story about learning that things are never what they seem, everyone has something in their life to deal with.
I am so glad to have received this book as part of a giveaway prize. It was such a pleasant surprise as I got to know these diverse characters and was let into their lives. I feel that I would like to keep in touch with these characters and see what their futures bring.
October 21, 2018
Where do I start with this novel? I could begin by describing it sweet, enduring, or fun? Although each are words to describe this book, I want to begin by saying YA novels are not my preference. However, Sway managed to draw me into the story with an interesting main character and an intriguing plot. The author did a fantastic job at making the reader, in this case me, care about everything that is happening in the main character's life. I love the main character, with her flaws in all. She is a person-a human who can be just as charming as she can be annoying. And I don't mean that in a bad way. It isn't often I find a character that feels like she is real.
The novel doesn't escape without its flaws-at least for me. Sometimes the dialogue felt a little static, but I believe that is because the difference of cultures-me being from the United States and Author and book being based in Australia. Also, there were some characters I wished I saw more of, but that isn't necessarily a bad thing.
Overall, this is a very sincere and enduring story. There were times were I found myself with a smile on my face, but just as Michelle Ham is great at conveying hope, joy and love, she can write dramatic and sometimes heartbreaking moments. I judge a book by how engaged I was while reading it. My ADHD and short attention span turn even the best of books into a choir; however, the life and times of Saskia hooked me and each page kept me coming back. The story unpredictable and sweet, and I recommend this book to lovers of romance and YA novels.
The novel doesn't escape without its flaws-at least for me. Sometimes the dialogue felt a little static, but I believe that is because the difference of cultures-me being from the United States and Author and book being based in Australia. Also, there were some characters I wished I saw more of, but that isn't necessarily a bad thing.
Overall, this is a very sincere and enduring story. There were times were I found myself with a smile on my face, but just as Michelle Ham is great at conveying hope, joy and love, she can write dramatic and sometimes heartbreaking moments. I judge a book by how engaged I was while reading it. My ADHD and short attention span turn even the best of books into a choir; however, the life and times of Saskia hooked me and each page kept me coming back. The story unpredictable and sweet, and I recommend this book to lovers of romance and YA novels.
April 20, 2017
While I initially found the book slow to start, once the central romance started between Saskia and Jesse, and there was less church-talk, I really enjoyed the story. The secrets peppered throughout added something to the plot to keep the pages turning, and the characters developed and grew in a convincing and realistic way. While some of the dialogue sounded dated and clunky--as if it was obviously written by someone who wasn't a teen--it was fitting for a book set in 1995. There was also plenty of nostalgic references for any Australian that grew up during that time and had spent their afternoons flipping through Dolly magazines. At times, I did find that the lack of dialogue tags in the majority of the conversations made it hard to follow who was talking. I was also a little disappointed that it didn't seem as if Saskia and Jesse were going to be together again, even at some point in the future. I know it was a story about growing up and first loves, which don't always end in 'ever after', but I would have liked to have seen them together, given how much they ended up meaning to each other. Having said that, this was a book I enjoyed much more than I thought I would when I started on the first chapter. It is not the type of genre I would normally read (I'm more a YA supernatural/horror/mystery/fantasy fan), but I'm glad I came across it, and would happily read more books/stories from Michelle Ham.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 16, 2019
Sway, written by Michelle Ham, isn't the genre of YA I normally read as I prefer to see my protagonists surrounded by mystery, magic or horror, so I was pleasantly surprised to find myself enjoying this story about a teen coming of age and finding her first love. In Sway, Saskia wants to cling to the comfort and safety of her after school church group, even as it becomes obvious that her best friend, Eliza, has outgrown it. There's trouble at home, too. Saskia's brother has run away and her little sister begins hanging out with the wrong crowd. Then Jesse, a boy Saskia has gone to school with for years, starts to talk to her on the bus ride home, ending one of the trips with a sudden kiss. Now Saskia is spending all of her time with him, skipping school and listening to the songs that he has written based on his own troubled upbringing and family secrets. When one of Saskia's own family secrets comes to light, it turns her life upside down and forces changes that will take her away from Jesse, and ask her to question everything that she holds dear. Sway is full of relatable characters and situations, some mystery regarding Saskia's brother, and all of the nostalgic fun of growing up in the '90s in Australia. Michelle’s writing style is clear and the tone of the book perfectly captures the naivety of youth and that time in your teen years when you begin to grow into a young adult.
January 8, 2017
This book came to me at the exact right time in my life.
When I first began reading, I must admit that I was a little taken aback with how religious it was. I'm always willing to give things a shot though, and I'm so glad I stuck with it. Despite being 3 years younger than me, Saskia Brookes and I have a lot in common; trying to hard to look after others while facing personal crises, suffering heartbreak after heartbreak, and questioning faith and who we are.
This book is like nothing I've ever read before, and I'm truly grateful that I got to meet the author to find out about it. I believe it's the first in a new wave of YA fiction, and I am looking forward to reading everything else that comes our way from Michelle Ham.
I implore everyone to read this book as soon as possible, and perhaps discover some things about yourself that you had never thought possible.
When I first began reading, I must admit that I was a little taken aback with how religious it was. I'm always willing to give things a shot though, and I'm so glad I stuck with it. Despite being 3 years younger than me, Saskia Brookes and I have a lot in common; trying to hard to look after others while facing personal crises, suffering heartbreak after heartbreak, and questioning faith and who we are.
This book is like nothing I've ever read before, and I'm truly grateful that I got to meet the author to find out about it. I believe it's the first in a new wave of YA fiction, and I am looking forward to reading everything else that comes our way from Michelle Ham.
I implore everyone to read this book as soon as possible, and perhaps discover some things about yourself that you had never thought possible.
March 3, 2017
Oh my gosh where do I start with this book?
Absolutely fantastic! beautifully written! Such a gorgeous book. One of the best Australian YA Novels I have EVER read!! Absolutely hooking and well paced. Everything about this book is perfect! It is one of the best books I have read in a long time! It felt so real and like you were in the story! The Author's writing technique is flawless! It is so easy to read and grabs at your emotions! I felt so connected with these characters! Please do pick this up! Absolutely Fantastic! One of the best books I have ever read!
Absolutely fantastic! beautifully written! Such a gorgeous book. One of the best Australian YA Novels I have EVER read!! Absolutely hooking and well paced. Everything about this book is perfect! It is one of the best books I have read in a long time! It felt so real and like you were in the story! The Author's writing technique is flawless! It is so easy to read and grabs at your emotions! I felt so connected with these characters! Please do pick this up! Absolutely Fantastic! One of the best books I have ever read!
October 30, 2018
This is a great first book for this author. Although religious themes are not my thing I can tell that the author has a bright future in regards to her writing career. i would happily read more from her. Well done.
December 6, 2018
Wonderful coming of age story that accurately (sometimes painfully) captures the main character’s growth from an insecure and naive teenager to a young adult. Beautifully written and a uniquely authentic experience.
December 13, 2016
I may be biased, as the author, but I found it highly enjoyable and hard to put down! You can buy this delightful book at http://au.blurb.com/b/7573943-sway
May 4, 2024
Saskia Brookes is a good girl who follows the rules and sticks by her faith. But when her family is torn apart, her rebellious best friend begins to drift away and she falls for a guy she shouldn’t, she questions everything she has ever known. Her faith is tested as she navigates her way through a community she thought was meant to represent love and care, but has no problem turning on one of their own. When Saskia finds refuge in love, one question remains: what is she willing to risk in order to follow her heart?
This was such a fun, sweet, nostalgic read, taking me back to high school. It explores the complexities of being a teenager, when you are expected to be an adult in so many ways, but are still treated as a child in many others. It also is a reminder of how much we learn and grow in those years as we transition from a child into an adult. I found myself giggling many times out loud, and cringing - in a been there, done that way. Well done Michelle!
This was such a fun, sweet, nostalgic read, taking me back to high school. It explores the complexities of being a teenager, when you are expected to be an adult in so many ways, but are still treated as a child in many others. It also is a reminder of how much we learn and grow in those years as we transition from a child into an adult. I found myself giggling many times out loud, and cringing - in a been there, done that way. Well done Michelle!
May 16, 2019
Great read! Not the biggest fan of romancy type books. However this was well written & the character dialogue is wonderful! If you’re a YA fan you’ll surely love it.
Great cover too 😜
Great cover too 😜
May 17, 2023
As a character, I found Saskia very easy to relate to. She is shy and self-conscious and she feels like she doesn’t quite fit in. However, to her surprise, her friends and family think the world of her.
I loved this coming-of-age story. As Saskia starts to come out of her shell, she questions her beliefs and starts to view the world through her own eyes, rather than through the expectations that her parents and community have always had of her. She experiences the wonder of first love and develops a new-found sense of self as the story progresses.
I found it refreshing that the story didn’t end as you would expect. It was original and it kept the reader guessing with lots of twists and turns.
Congratulations Michelle. Sway is a beautiful story to be enjoyed not just by young readers, but also by adults too.
I loved this coming-of-age story. As Saskia starts to come out of her shell, she questions her beliefs and starts to view the world through her own eyes, rather than through the expectations that her parents and community have always had of her. She experiences the wonder of first love and develops a new-found sense of self as the story progresses.
I found it refreshing that the story didn’t end as you would expect. It was original and it kept the reader guessing with lots of twists and turns.
Congratulations Michelle. Sway is a beautiful story to be enjoyed not just by young readers, but also by adults too.
May 16, 2023
Reading Sway brought back memories of being that shy, awkward teenager who wants to fit in, but also wants to be able to remain who they are while doing it. Trying to figure out how to do that at such a young age is hard, and I this book reminded me that I wouldn't want to do it again. I applaud the author for writing a story will resonate with not only teenagers, with things like smoking, language, sex coming at them from all sides, but also for adults, as a reminder of how far they've come!
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