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The 11th Hour
Annika Dietty thinks her future is with Dylan Sopick — until they run away together.
One day, after weeks of secret planning, seventeen-year-old Annika Dietty leaves home at dawn to run away with her boyfriend, the charming and popular Dylan Sopick. She tried telling her friends and family how amazing Dylan is, but seeing as they all seem set against the relationship, she’s decided their only chance is to run away together.
But not everything goes according to plan, and Dylan seems to be having more and more trouble dealing with every obstacle they encounter. At first Annika is sympathetic, knowing that he’s had a harder life than she has, but very soon Dylan’s behaviour becomes unsettling, and Annika realizes that her safety is at stake. She finally admits to herself that Dylan needs help she can’t provide. She wants to get him to help — if she’ll get the chance.
One day, after weeks of secret planning, seventeen-year-old Annika Dietty leaves home at dawn to run away with her boyfriend, the charming and popular Dylan Sopick. She tried telling her friends and family how amazing Dylan is, but seeing as they all seem set against the relationship, she’s decided their only chance is to run away together.
But not everything goes according to plan, and Dylan seems to be having more and more trouble dealing with every obstacle they encounter. At first Annika is sympathetic, knowing that he’s had a harder life than she has, but very soon Dylan’s behaviour becomes unsettling, and Annika realizes that her safety is at stake. She finally admits to herself that Dylan needs help she can’t provide. She wants to get him to help — if she’ll get the chance.
194 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 24, 2018
5 people are currently reading
471 people want to read
About the author
Kristine Scarrow
7 books42 followersI'm the author of the young adult novels "Throwaway Girl", "If This Is Home", "The 11th Hour", and "The Gamer's Guide to Getting the Girl" (Dundurn Press).
Although I do some freelance writing, editing, and facilitating workshops, writing books is the ultimate for me!
I have a special interest in writing as a healing art and I want others to discover how writing can be a useful tool to help heal and grow. I have the privilege of working as the writer-in-residence at a local hospital as part of their Healing Arts program.
Born and raised in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, I am married and have three awesome kids, two dogs, and a chaotic but enriching life!
You can find me at:
www.kristinescarrow.com
Or on Facebook: Kristine Scarrow, Author
Although I do some freelance writing, editing, and facilitating workshops, writing books is the ultimate for me!
I have a special interest in writing as a healing art and I want others to discover how writing can be a useful tool to help heal and grow. I have the privilege of working as the writer-in-residence at a local hospital as part of their Healing Arts program.
Born and raised in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, I am married and have three awesome kids, two dogs, and a chaotic but enriching life!
You can find me at:
www.kristinescarrow.com
Or on Facebook: Kristine Scarrow, Author
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
February 5, 2018
3.5 Stars
Check out this review and a bunch of others here: 5171 Miles Book Blog
*I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
I didn't know what I was expecting when I picked up this book. I'm still a little torn after finishing it. But let's start from the beginning.
Annika's boyfriend, Dylan, is everything to her and she is everything to him. They love each other so much, they want to spend every waking minute of the day with each other, much to the dismay of her parents. They don't approve of him and neither do her friends. When suddenly Annika's parents forbid her to see him again, the teens, seventeen and eighteen years old, form a plan to run away together.
When they finally did run away, things begin to change rather quickly between them. Dylan gets more and more agitated by the second. At first Annika is forgiving because she knows that he had a difficult start in life. But when her life is suddenly at stake, she decides to get him help.
I had a hard time getting into the story because I was basically thrown into their run away scene. There was no approach whatsoever and I wished there would've been some. Dylan's POV was especially difficult to read since he "told" his story in choppy sentences.
Annika was a very naive seventeen-year old girl who could have easily been thirteen as well. She was very immature and annoying. I actually despise girls like her: girls who give up her friends and hobbies for a boyfriend.
The story was a little too fast-paced for my liking. As I said in the beginning, I was basically thrown into it, and it didn't stop there. Everything that happened in the novel, happened in the course of 11 hours but I wished that Kristine Scarrow would have prolonged the story a little.
What I didn't see coming was the ending of it. To say that I was shocked is an understatement.
The message that Scarrow wanted to convey, however, is important: Depression is nothing bad and should be talked about. This illness doesn't get too much recognition, it seems frowned upon in our society. Why? I don't know, but I think people link it to some sort of craziness. Hopefully this story raises a little awareness.
Although I wasn't too happy with the characters and the fast-paced story, the message and the ending of the story was great, which is why I give it 3.5 stars, leaning towards 4 stars.
**********
That ending was sooo unexpected!!
Review to come soon!!
Check out this review and a bunch of others here: 5171 Miles Book Blog
*I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
I didn't know what I was expecting when I picked up this book. I'm still a little torn after finishing it. But let's start from the beginning.
Annika's boyfriend, Dylan, is everything to her and she is everything to him. They love each other so much, they want to spend every waking minute of the day with each other, much to the dismay of her parents. They don't approve of him and neither do her friends. When suddenly Annika's parents forbid her to see him again, the teens, seventeen and eighteen years old, form a plan to run away together.
When they finally did run away, things begin to change rather quickly between them. Dylan gets more and more agitated by the second. At first Annika is forgiving because she knows that he had a difficult start in life. But when her life is suddenly at stake, she decides to get him help.
I had a hard time getting into the story because I was basically thrown into their run away scene. There was no approach whatsoever and I wished there would've been some. Dylan's POV was especially difficult to read since he "told" his story in choppy sentences.
Annika was a very naive seventeen-year old girl who could have easily been thirteen as well. She was very immature and annoying. I actually despise girls like her: girls who give up her friends and hobbies for a boyfriend.
The story was a little too fast-paced for my liking. As I said in the beginning, I was basically thrown into it, and it didn't stop there. Everything that happened in the novel, happened in the course of 11 hours but I wished that Kristine Scarrow would have prolonged the story a little.
What I didn't see coming was the ending of it. To say that I was shocked is an understatement.
The message that Scarrow wanted to convey, however, is important: Depression is nothing bad and should be talked about. This illness doesn't get too much recognition, it seems frowned upon in our society. Why? I don't know, but I think people link it to some sort of craziness. Hopefully this story raises a little awareness.
Although I wasn't too happy with the characters and the fast-paced story, the message and the ending of the story was great, which is why I give it 3.5 stars, leaning towards 4 stars.
**********
That ending was sooo unexpected!!
Review to come soon!!
February 5, 2018
Teen love, emotional decisions made with the passions of immature perceptions of reality and untreated mental illness all provide for a riveting tale from Kristine Scarrow.
The 11th Hour is a stark look at young love out of control, filled with the fantasy of a Cinderella future that will just “take care of itself.” Annika and Dylan are in love, and they want to spend their lives together, away from parental control and dominance. What the “good girl” Annika will discover is that Dylan has built their relationship on a house of cards filled with lies and secrets.
Dylan and Annika share their perspectives, hers filled with visions of sweet romance, his crumbling into a jagged tale of his unstable mental issues he has kept so well hidden until he becomes overwhelmed with reality’s trial and tribulations.
Wonderfully written, this is an eye-opening tale of young love out of control, its consequences and the dangers possible. Ms. Scarrow does not preach, her story comes through her characters in their voices, and their perceptions. They are real, they are alive and their story is a cautionary tale. A sad awakening for two young souls ill-equipped for the reality that is life.
A must-read for all ages, as teens will relate while quite possibly being the biggest critics of the actions of their peers.
I received a complimentary ARC edition from Dundurn!
Publisher: Dundurn (February 24, 2018)
Publication Date: February 24, 2018
Genre: YA (younger 12-15) | Mental Health
Print Length: 192 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
The 11th Hour is a stark look at young love out of control, filled with the fantasy of a Cinderella future that will just “take care of itself.” Annika and Dylan are in love, and they want to spend their lives together, away from parental control and dominance. What the “good girl” Annika will discover is that Dylan has built their relationship on a house of cards filled with lies and secrets.
Dylan and Annika share their perspectives, hers filled with visions of sweet romance, his crumbling into a jagged tale of his unstable mental issues he has kept so well hidden until he becomes overwhelmed with reality’s trial and tribulations.
Wonderfully written, this is an eye-opening tale of young love out of control, its consequences and the dangers possible. Ms. Scarrow does not preach, her story comes through her characters in their voices, and their perceptions. They are real, they are alive and their story is a cautionary tale. A sad awakening for two young souls ill-equipped for the reality that is life.
A must-read for all ages, as teens will relate while quite possibly being the biggest critics of the actions of their peers.
I received a complimentary ARC edition from Dundurn!
Publisher: Dundurn (February 24, 2018)
Publication Date: February 24, 2018
Genre: YA (younger 12-15) | Mental Health
Print Length: 192 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
February 20, 2018
It was a mistake picking this book while I was in a very good mood. This book made so...sad.
The writing is simplistic yet heart touching. It was so real that sometimes it was painful to read.
This is a must read for teenagers, specially girls.
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
The writing is simplistic yet heart touching. It was so real that sometimes it was painful to read.
This is a must read for teenagers, specially girls.
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
March 2, 2018
This is a relatively short book and the first I have read by the author. The story is told from both Annika and Dylan's perspective, flipping back and forth so we can see the situation from both perspectives. Going into this book just reading the synopsis, I assumed it was going to be more of an abusive controlling relationship, something like the story in Bad Romance by Heather Demetrios. However, this story ended up being centered around mental illness. Like I said, the story is relatively short and we don't get a very great backstory about the characters and only a short history of their relationship. The book opens with Annika sneaking out of her house and running away with Dylan to a cabin several hours away owned by his family. During the trip there and once they arrive, you can see Dylan's behavior changing and Annika notices things she previously has not.
I enjoyed this book, but I did have a few issues with it. I don't want to give away any spoilers, but we don't ever really get a clear view of what mental illness Dylan is suffering from or what medications he is supposed to be taking. I rarely read fiction that is focused on mental illness because authors very rarely portray it correctly, in my humble opinion. So I would have liked to understand Dylan and whatever mental illness he was suffering from a bit better. I also find it odd that Annika never before noticed any odd behavior from Dylan, as it sounds like they have been together for a decent amount of time, as they are talking about marriage at one point in the book and they run away together.
With that being said, I am fairly critical with any fictional books that deal with mental illness and the things I mentioned are just my own opinion. The ending of this book I both liked and didn't like at the same time. I liked it because there is a plot twist that I did not see coming, one that made me stop and re-read several sentences. On the other hand, I tend to like endings that don't leave me with any questions and I had many questions after I finished this book. Overall, I did enjoy this book, I just would have liked a bit more information about Dylan's mental illness and the main characters backgrounds. I did enjoy the author's writing and look forward to reading more from her in the future.
Thank you to the publisher, Dundurn, for sending me an ARC of this book.
I enjoyed this book, but I did have a few issues with it. I don't want to give away any spoilers, but we don't ever really get a clear view of what mental illness Dylan is suffering from or what medications he is supposed to be taking. I rarely read fiction that is focused on mental illness because authors very rarely portray it correctly, in my humble opinion. So I would have liked to understand Dylan and whatever mental illness he was suffering from a bit better. I also find it odd that Annika never before noticed any odd behavior from Dylan, as it sounds like they have been together for a decent amount of time, as they are talking about marriage at one point in the book and they run away together.
With that being said, I am fairly critical with any fictional books that deal with mental illness and the things I mentioned are just my own opinion. The ending of this book I both liked and didn't like at the same time. I liked it because there is a plot twist that I did not see coming, one that made me stop and re-read several sentences. On the other hand, I tend to like endings that don't leave me with any questions and I had many questions after I finished this book. Overall, I did enjoy this book, I just would have liked a bit more information about Dylan's mental illness and the main characters backgrounds. I did enjoy the author's writing and look forward to reading more from her in the future.
Thank you to the publisher, Dundurn, for sending me an ARC of this book.
January 24, 2018
(3.5)
I received a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review via NetGalley and Dundurn Press.
The 11th Hour is dominated by Annika and Dylan’s perspectives that alternate within the chapter itself. The book literally revolves around just the two of them, and a few mostly nameless secondary characters, which reflects on Dylan’s success in alienating the two of them in his perfect world. Well, almost perfect. We didn’t really get a full look into his mental health issues until the very end, which is a shame to be honest. BUT, he doesn’t exactly accept it himself, and his POV is like half of the book, so it’s justifiable. Although I think the plot was phenomenal, the writing style wasn’t really for me – it’s a YA book, yes, but it reads for 13-16 year olds, I don’t think an older YA audience will fall in love with this book – but that’s just my personal opinion. Definitely don’t discount this book, because it really is an important book for young teens to read.
Read my full review here: https://mariazuppardi.wordpress.com/2...
I received a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review via NetGalley and Dundurn Press.
The 11th Hour is dominated by Annika and Dylan’s perspectives that alternate within the chapter itself. The book literally revolves around just the two of them, and a few mostly nameless secondary characters, which reflects on Dylan’s success in alienating the two of them in his perfect world. Well, almost perfect. We didn’t really get a full look into his mental health issues until the very end, which is a shame to be honest. BUT, he doesn’t exactly accept it himself, and his POV is like half of the book, so it’s justifiable. Although I think the plot was phenomenal, the writing style wasn’t really for me – it’s a YA book, yes, but it reads for 13-16 year olds, I don’t think an older YA audience will fall in love with this book – but that’s just my personal opinion. Definitely don’t discount this book, because it really is an important book for young teens to read.
Read my full review here: https://mariazuppardi.wordpress.com/2...
December 3, 2017
**Thanks to NetGalley for providing me a complimentary copy of THE 11TH HOUR by Kristine Scarrow in exchange for my honest review**
Spoilers!
3.5 STARS
GRADE: B-
After Annika’s parents try to get her to stop seeing Dylan, the couple sets out on their own. She doesn’t understand why her friends and family don’t approve of their relationship. Dylan is devoted to her, so devoted he’s often jealous. Not long after leaving, trouble begin with an rattle in the car’s engine. Soon the problems escalate.
THE 11TH HOUR is very much Annika’s story, though told from the points of view of both Annika and Dylan. I could see how she fell for his charms and didn’t recognize the warning signs of an unhealthy and controlling relationship because his behavior crept up on her. Warning signals aren’t always apparent, particularly to younger people. Both characters were multidimensional.
THE 11TH HOUR is a cautionary tale. I wish that Scarrow had focused more on the mental health aspect of the story before the ending, when Dylan’s parents narrated the ending explaining (telling, not showing) his history of self medicating, finally getting on psych meds and going off them. This could have been an important focus throughout the story. Dylan’s mental illness is never named, although I’d guess he’s bipolar.
THE 11TH HOUR takes place over a day. Scarrow’s writing kept me interested, building with intensity until the shocking ending. I held my breath through much of the last 25% of the story.
I hope teens read THE 11TH HOUR and take heed at some of the warning signals for dysfunctional, unhealthy and controlling relationships.
Spoilers!
3.5 STARS
GRADE: B-
After Annika’s parents try to get her to stop seeing Dylan, the couple sets out on their own. She doesn’t understand why her friends and family don’t approve of their relationship. Dylan is devoted to her, so devoted he’s often jealous. Not long after leaving, trouble begin with an rattle in the car’s engine. Soon the problems escalate.
THE 11TH HOUR is very much Annika’s story, though told from the points of view of both Annika and Dylan. I could see how she fell for his charms and didn’t recognize the warning signs of an unhealthy and controlling relationship because his behavior crept up on her. Warning signals aren’t always apparent, particularly to younger people. Both characters were multidimensional.
THE 11TH HOUR is a cautionary tale. I wish that Scarrow had focused more on the mental health aspect of the story before the ending, when Dylan’s parents narrated the ending explaining (telling, not showing) his history of self medicating, finally getting on psych meds and going off them. This could have been an important focus throughout the story. Dylan’s mental illness is never named, although I’d guess he’s bipolar.
THE 11TH HOUR takes place over a day. Scarrow’s writing kept me interested, building with intensity until the shocking ending. I held my breath through much of the last 25% of the story.
I hope teens read THE 11TH HOUR and take heed at some of the warning signals for dysfunctional, unhealthy and controlling relationships.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 23, 2018
I received an ARC of this book an exchange for an honest review:
More like 2.5
Annika Dietty decides she loves Dylan so much, she runs away from home with him. But as their trip goes on, she see's a darker side of Dylan, one she hasn't seen before.
I found this book very whiney, kind of poorly written. Part of me wanted to read on, to find out what happened, what caused Dylans anger and outbursts but part of me was completely uninterested because I couldn't connect to the characters.
More like 2.5
Annika Dietty decides she loves Dylan so much, she runs away from home with him. But as their trip goes on, she see's a darker side of Dylan, one she hasn't seen before.
I found this book very whiney, kind of poorly written. Part of me wanted to read on, to find out what happened, what caused Dylans anger and outbursts but part of me was completely uninterested because I couldn't connect to the characters.
March 25, 2018
This is a moving story.
It was very emotional and relatable. The story of Annika and Dylan’s relationship is devastating. It was clear right away that something wasn’t right. Dylan lied about many things. And the way that he wanted to move Annika away from everyone else was a big warning sign for me. But Annika had that teenage innocence where she didn’t think anything could go wrong, as long as she was with her first love.
This story shows an important side of mental illness. If Dylan wasn’t ashamed of his illness and the fact that he took medication, these events probably wouldn’t have happened. It’s important to be open about these problems and not hide them. Keeping those feelings inside can lead to dangerous outcomes, just like what happened in this story.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher on NetGalley.
It was very emotional and relatable. The story of Annika and Dylan’s relationship is devastating. It was clear right away that something wasn’t right. Dylan lied about many things. And the way that he wanted to move Annika away from everyone else was a big warning sign for me. But Annika had that teenage innocence where she didn’t think anything could go wrong, as long as she was with her first love.
This story shows an important side of mental illness. If Dylan wasn’t ashamed of his illness and the fact that he took medication, these events probably wouldn’t have happened. It’s important to be open about these problems and not hide them. Keeping those feelings inside can lead to dangerous outcomes, just like what happened in this story.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher on NetGalley.
February 26, 2018
3.5 stars.
The 11th Hour by Kristine Scarrow is a gritty young adult novel about teen love that goes terribly wrong.
Seventeen year old Annika Dietty and her eighteen year old boyfriend Dylan Sopick have been dating for the past six months. After Annika begins giving up her extracurricular activities and stops hanging out with friends so she can spend more time with Dylan, her parents order her to end their relatioship. Convinced he is the love of her life, Annika agrees to Dylan's plan to run away together. However, once their plan is put into motion, Annika begins to see an unexpectedly dangerous side of Dylan that frightens her. Unfortunately for Annika, Dylan has kept crucial information about himself hidden and these omissions leave her in a very precarious situation when their plans begin to go awry.
Annika is very sheltered so she is somewhat naive. Her parents are very involved in her life and they closely monitor her friends and activities. Dylan is Annika's first serous boyfriend and although her parents initially like him, they have become alarmed by the recent changes in her behavior. After they forbid her to continue dating him and her friends confront her about her recent decisions, Annika clings even tighter to Dylan.
Dylan was not the best student but he was a star basketball player. He has carefully edited out the less than stellar parts of his life and Annika is mostly unaware of his somewhat troubled history. At first excited as they start out on their journey, Dylan does not handle adversity well and his mood darkens as things begin to go wrong. Annika is stunned when he lashes out in anger over what she perceives to be a minor mistake and things between them quickly deteriorate.
Written from both Annika and Dylan's perspective, the story begins with the couple running away so very little of their history is known at first. It is quite clear that Annika is a little too trusting but she is a likable young woman. Dylan is all over the place with his moods shifting quickly as he reacts to the various situations. He is immature but it is quite obvious his problems go much deeper than his lack of life experience. There is not much context for what is wrong with him after the situation between him and Annika rapidly escalates into a crisis.
The 11th Hour is a short young adult novel that deals with some very difficult subject matter. Kristine Scarrow delicately handles these topics with a great deal of sensitivity but exactly what is wrong with Dylan is not adequately explained. The situation between Dylan and Annika ends abruptly and the novel's conclusion is very heartbreaking. Despite a few flaws and frustrations, it is a worthwhile read that I recommend to teenagers.
The 11th Hour by Kristine Scarrow is a gritty young adult novel about teen love that goes terribly wrong.
Seventeen year old Annika Dietty and her eighteen year old boyfriend Dylan Sopick have been dating for the past six months. After Annika begins giving up her extracurricular activities and stops hanging out with friends so she can spend more time with Dylan, her parents order her to end their relatioship. Convinced he is the love of her life, Annika agrees to Dylan's plan to run away together. However, once their plan is put into motion, Annika begins to see an unexpectedly dangerous side of Dylan that frightens her. Unfortunately for Annika, Dylan has kept crucial information about himself hidden and these omissions leave her in a very precarious situation when their plans begin to go awry.
Annika is very sheltered so she is somewhat naive. Her parents are very involved in her life and they closely monitor her friends and activities. Dylan is Annika's first serous boyfriend and although her parents initially like him, they have become alarmed by the recent changes in her behavior. After they forbid her to continue dating him and her friends confront her about her recent decisions, Annika clings even tighter to Dylan.
Dylan was not the best student but he was a star basketball player. He has carefully edited out the less than stellar parts of his life and Annika is mostly unaware of his somewhat troubled history. At first excited as they start out on their journey, Dylan does not handle adversity well and his mood darkens as things begin to go wrong. Annika is stunned when he lashes out in anger over what she perceives to be a minor mistake and things between them quickly deteriorate.
Written from both Annika and Dylan's perspective, the story begins with the couple running away so very little of their history is known at first. It is quite clear that Annika is a little too trusting but she is a likable young woman. Dylan is all over the place with his moods shifting quickly as he reacts to the various situations. He is immature but it is quite obvious his problems go much deeper than his lack of life experience. There is not much context for what is wrong with him after the situation between him and Annika rapidly escalates into a crisis.
The 11th Hour is a short young adult novel that deals with some very difficult subject matter. Kristine Scarrow delicately handles these topics with a great deal of sensitivity but exactly what is wrong with Dylan is not adequately explained. The situation between Dylan and Annika ends abruptly and the novel's conclusion is very heartbreaking. Despite a few flaws and frustrations, it is a worthwhile read that I recommend to teenagers.
March 6, 2018
I'm still not sure how I really feel about this book. I just finished it, I'm still reeling from the end, and I'm part way through digesting it. I guess one really important thing that came out of reading this was the abundance of questions that I find myself asking; mainly, what could have been done differently, and would it have changed anything? I'm trying to be evasive so I don't spoil things for anyone else but if you're looking for a feel good book, this is definitely not it.
I received an advance copy of this via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I'm not really sure what I expected but I got more than I bargained for. The reason why I rated this as a 3 star was because I'm not sure if that was good or bad.
Some things this novel has going for it was that it took place in Canada (yay!) and it provided a glimpse in how we treat mental illness here and also put the spotlight on how difficult it is to actually receive help for it. I had no idea it took that long to get an appointment with a psychiatrist! It was eye opening. The underlying and perhaps most important message of the novel is of course, to keep the lines of communication open. Don't be afraid to talk about mental illness, it's nothing to be ashamed of. There are so many resources out there, people, places, volunteer organizations that are willing to help if you want it.
The things that didn't really work for me was the juvenile relationship between Annika and Dylan. I realize they're 17/18, but I expected more to their dialogue and a more complex relationship. Annika was incredibly naive; I'm not really sure about Dylan's parents because his perception of reality was a bit off due to his illness, but I expected more from them as well. I guess it's easy to criticize other people when you're not in their situation and see how things could have been avoided.
Let me end this by saying that this book left me feeling uncomfortable, a bit disturbed, and with a bit of a bleak outlook. Others may feel very differently and I would encourage you to read it, especially if you, or someone you know may suffer from mental illness.
I received an advance copy of this via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I'm not really sure what I expected but I got more than I bargained for. The reason why I rated this as a 3 star was because I'm not sure if that was good or bad.
Some things this novel has going for it was that it took place in Canada (yay!) and it provided a glimpse in how we treat mental illness here and also put the spotlight on how difficult it is to actually receive help for it. I had no idea it took that long to get an appointment with a psychiatrist! It was eye opening. The underlying and perhaps most important message of the novel is of course, to keep the lines of communication open. Don't be afraid to talk about mental illness, it's nothing to be ashamed of. There are so many resources out there, people, places, volunteer organizations that are willing to help if you want it.
The things that didn't really work for me was the juvenile relationship between Annika and Dylan. I realize they're 17/18, but I expected more to their dialogue and a more complex relationship. Annika was incredibly naive; I'm not really sure about Dylan's parents because his perception of reality was a bit off due to his illness, but I expected more from them as well. I guess it's easy to criticize other people when you're not in their situation and see how things could have been avoided.
Let me end this by saying that this book left me feeling uncomfortable, a bit disturbed, and with a bit of a bleak outlook. Others may feel very differently and I would encourage you to read it, especially if you, or someone you know may suffer from mental illness.
January 3, 2018
The 11th HourI didn't want to like this book at first. I felt like I was listening to whiny teenagers. And I was, but that ended up being the beauty of the book. The characters were real; they were real teenagers. What's even more impressive about this tale is that it occurred in such a short amount of time. In spite of this pace, Kristine Scarrow created great tension and anticipation as the reader comes to the realization about Annika's predicament in tandem with Annika's own awareness. Scarrow uses a successful and tight he-said/she-said, back-n-forth delivery of the dialogue and action, regardless of (or in reflection of) the turmoil of the teenage mind, the disordered mind, or both. The addition of resources is an absolute plus.Kristine Scarrow
January 13, 2018
This book was absolutely devoured in a single sitting. Mental illness is an incredibly difficult topic to think about and write about, as we well know. How much harder is it to live with it? As the author notes at the very end, studies show that every single person in Canada is affected by mental illness at some point in their lives - whether personally, through a friend, a relative, a partner, etc. This is a topic that warrants discussion, and consideration with an open mind and a goal of helping.
Dylan is an off-putting character. As a mother, I read his perspective and my heart just broke. How many children are facing these trials, feeling they are completely alone? How hard must it be to not be able to accurately recognize when you are loved? Especially in high school, where peers are so focused on themselves and anyone who is different is almost automatically an outcast unless they fall into some socially acceptable realm, like basketball. While reading about Dylan, I found myself wondering how much harder his life would have been if he had not had even basketball. Or worse, if he'd not been good at it but still on the team. How unaccepting and unforgiving we can be when people don't meet our expectations. Our demands, really.
Annika's character immediately took me back to being in high school. She's really not so different from Dylan at all - trying to battle through her illness, to pretend like everything is okay because she so desperately wants it to be. Neither she nor Dylan really know what they're dealing with, or how to interact with each other. They only know how they feel themselves, but struggle to try and accurately make what is inside come out in a way that makes sense to others. As a result, they both feel so misunderstood - but not wrong.
This is a tremendous, eloquently written cautionary tale. It is heartbreaking and thought-provoking. I highly, highly recommend that every single person read it.
Dylan is an off-putting character. As a mother, I read his perspective and my heart just broke. How many children are facing these trials, feeling they are completely alone? How hard must it be to not be able to accurately recognize when you are loved? Especially in high school, where peers are so focused on themselves and anyone who is different is almost automatically an outcast unless they fall into some socially acceptable realm, like basketball. While reading about Dylan, I found myself wondering how much harder his life would have been if he had not had even basketball. Or worse, if he'd not been good at it but still on the team. How unaccepting and unforgiving we can be when people don't meet our expectations. Our demands, really.
Annika's character immediately took me back to being in high school. She's really not so different from Dylan at all - trying to battle through her illness, to pretend like everything is okay because she so desperately wants it to be. Neither she nor Dylan really know what they're dealing with, or how to interact with each other. They only know how they feel themselves, but struggle to try and accurately make what is inside come out in a way that makes sense to others. As a result, they both feel so misunderstood - but not wrong.
This is a tremendous, eloquently written cautionary tale. It is heartbreaking and thought-provoking. I highly, highly recommend that every single person read it.
January 28, 2018
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. I feel like the topic of the book is important but I had a hard time getting through the book, especially in the beginning. I could stand the way Annika and Dylan talked. It was like they were in a bad teen parody movie. It did shift as the book progressed and got really interesting, but I felt like it left me unsatisfied. I needed more ...detail I guess ? Especially in the end.
December 19, 2017
I received this novel from NetGalley.
Wow, all I can say is wow.
This novel takes a turn right at the end, one that I definitely didn't see coming and one that I think may be a little too shock-horror. However, I understand where Scarrow was coming from when she wrote the twist, showing all the sides of mental illness and its effects on those around them, not just the impacted person.
The novel had less than 5% left when the climax hit, and I feel that it took away from the build up, that it should have went on for a chapter or so more, just to tie up some ends. In another way I am glad for the abrupt end, it is poetic in that illnesses often leave lives messy and nothing is fairy tale perfect.
Enjoyed this novel, even if I am left a little shocked.
Wow, all I can say is wow.
This novel takes a turn right at the end, one that I definitely didn't see coming and one that I think may be a little too shock-horror. However, I understand where Scarrow was coming from when she wrote the twist, showing all the sides of mental illness and its effects on those around them, not just the impacted person.
The novel had less than 5% left when the climax hit, and I feel that it took away from the build up, that it should have went on for a chapter or so more, just to tie up some ends. In another way I am glad for the abrupt end, it is poetic in that illnesses often leave lives messy and nothing is fairy tale perfect.
Enjoyed this novel, even if I am left a little shocked.
December 9, 2018
First, the writing is bad. I almost didn’t finish it, but the story was compelling. Here’s the thing: the author wrote this book to “further shed the stigma of mental illness.” One of the two main characters is written as mentally ill. He goes off his meds, murders his girlfriend, and attempts to kill himself AFTER using lies and manipulations to get her to run away to a cabin he doesn’t own so they can live that rustic life.
Stigma eradicated, right? What a bunch of crap.
Stigma eradicated, right? What a bunch of crap.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 6, 2018
Well done YA crossover fiction that unfortunately likely won't be read by the teenage girls who could benefit from it the most. That's not a commentary on the author but rather on teens. This is the flip side of the Romeo-Juliet story so many think has a happy ending (it doesn't). Annika and Dylan are obsessed with one another. The novel is told from both of their standpoints. Dylan's narrative, and the writing style, reflects his struggle with mental illness. Running away is not the salutation to their romantic or other problems - it never is. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. Very good read.
February 22, 2018
Full review here: https://therealityofbooks.wordpress.c...
January 26, 2018
The 11th Hour spans one day as two young people decide to run away, getting away from their overprotective parents. While it is supposed to be a commentary on mental health disorders (I think), it doesn't really go anywhere because the writing and characters are weak. I felt nothing while reading (okay, skimming) this.
January 7, 2018
The 11th Hour is a story that has parts of it that can happen to anyone with teenagers. Two teens who decide to run away because no one seems to understand their growing love for each other. Annika's parents do not want her seeing him, and they want to start a life together, somewhere else. From the moment they leave, problems seem to follow them. Dylan's behavior starts to affect Annika's relationship with him and she starts to see a side of him she never knew.
I found the story a little too vague and I was yearning for more information about Dylan and his problems. In fact the character development was somewhat lacking, but I still found the book very readable and interesting. I can't say too much more because I am afraid I will give away too much about the story!
I truly feel that this book is a must read for for parents of teens and high school students as well.
Thank you to Dundern Press and the Goodreads program for sending me this complimentary copy.
I found the story a little too vague and I was yearning for more information about Dylan and his problems. In fact the character development was somewhat lacking, but I still found the book very readable and interesting. I can't say too much more because I am afraid I will give away too much about the story!
I truly feel that this book is a must read for for parents of teens and high school students as well.
Thank you to Dundern Press and the Goodreads program for sending me this complimentary copy.
May 12, 2018
*I was provided with an advanced eBook copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
3.5 stars.
I am going to try to keep this as spoiler free as possible. All spoilers will be starred.
First of all, Annika should have seen the signs in the beginning that this was not a good idea. They were small and subtle, but obvious enough to see. She brushed off all the issues like they were nothing, and I’m not sure if that was because she was sick or just an idiot.
Dylan was likable for the first few pages, and after that I already had nothing but distaste for him. Obviously he has his issues, but he was just so ridiculously awful in general that I couldn’t take it. And I wasn’t a huge fan of reading in his POV either, although I believe it was necessary for the story. I just wish some more backstory had been established because I found I didn’t really care about what happened with Dylan.
There wasn’t much dialogue in this book, and I really wish I could have seen more. I think it was too narration-driven and that more dialogue definitely could have been beneficial.
I really do think the length of the book was adequate. It couldn’t have been much longer because things would drag out at that point (unless it was a prologue, then I think that would have been just fine). Any shorter and we would’ve been missing pieces of the story.
I would have liked the ending a little different in the sense of a more closed ending (too open-ended for my taste) and some form of closure. Some little piece of evidence to explain.
Overall, the book was definitely not bad. It had many places to improve, but I liked the story and the concept. The execution could have been better, but I don’t feel as though reading this was a waste or anything. Still a decent book.
3.5 stars.
I am going to try to keep this as spoiler free as possible. All spoilers will be starred.
First of all, Annika should have seen the signs in the beginning that this was not a good idea. They were small and subtle, but obvious enough to see. She brushed off all the issues like they were nothing, and I’m not sure if that was because she was sick or just an idiot.
Dylan was likable for the first few pages, and after that I already had nothing but distaste for him. Obviously he has his issues, but he was just so ridiculously awful in general that I couldn’t take it. And I wasn’t a huge fan of reading in his POV either, although I believe it was necessary for the story. I just wish some more backstory had been established because I found I didn’t really care about what happened with Dylan.
There wasn’t much dialogue in this book, and I really wish I could have seen more. I think it was too narration-driven and that more dialogue definitely could have been beneficial.
I really do think the length of the book was adequate. It couldn’t have been much longer because things would drag out at that point (unless it was a prologue, then I think that would have been just fine). Any shorter and we would’ve been missing pieces of the story.
I would have liked the ending a little different in the sense of a more closed ending (too open-ended for my taste) and some form of closure. Some little piece of evidence to explain.
Overall, the book was definitely not bad. It had many places to improve, but I liked the story and the concept. The execution could have been better, but I don’t feel as though reading this was a waste or anything. Still a decent book.
April 16, 2018
This review is based on an ARC of The 11th Hour which I received courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher (Dundurn).
Yeesh. I don't even know what just happened. Overall this short little novel flowed nicely and faced an interesting (and theoretically very realistic) concept: A couple where one half is struggling with mental health issues. I felt that the execution was way off though.
I just want to talk about the last few chapters and the climax. So, for one, I don't really know what was going on after "The 11th Hour" (the chapter), or really even why. Annika's actions seemed really unrealistic, though it did contribute to a real bang of a finale, so I can see why things happened the way they did--from a writer's standpoint. Secondly, the way Annika behaved was despicable. To react that way upon learning about mental illness, especially that of someone so close to her, is really horrible.
Could Dylan be more of an asshole? No, I doubt it. And he absolutely cannot blame that on his mental illness. Just because you're depressed doesn't make you a dick. I refuse to believe his assholeishness is because of his depression, etc.
The second to last chapter hit me out of left field, but not in a good way. And the last chapter felt wrong and just really ruined the flow of the book for me. These last two chapters had all this hope and happiness and all these sayings people who aren't depressed say to depressed people to make them feel better. Me, being the sad bitch I am, just thought 'lol nice try.'
Now that it's all over I am just confused and a little let down, because the synopsis had me stoked. Ultimately, I could have done without reading The 11th Hour.
Popsugar 2018 Reading Challenge: (Advanced) A book about a problem facing society today
Yeesh. I don't even know what just happened. Overall this short little novel flowed nicely and faced an interesting (and theoretically very realistic) concept: A couple where one half is struggling with mental health issues. I felt that the execution was way off though.
I just want to talk about the last few chapters and the climax. So, for one, I don't really know what was going on after "The 11th Hour" (the chapter), or really even why. Annika's actions seemed really unrealistic, though it did contribute to a real bang of a finale, so I can see why things happened the way they did--from a writer's standpoint. Secondly, the way Annika behaved was despicable. To react that way upon learning about mental illness, especially that of someone so close to her, is really horrible.
Could Dylan be more of an asshole? No, I doubt it. And he absolutely cannot blame that on his mental illness. Just because you're depressed doesn't make you a dick. I refuse to believe his assholeishness is because of his depression, etc.
The second to last chapter hit me out of left field, but not in a good way. And the last chapter felt wrong and just really ruined the flow of the book for me. These last two chapters had all this hope and happiness and all these sayings people who aren't depressed say to depressed people to make them feel better. Me, being the sad bitch I am, just thought 'lol nice try.'
Now that it's all over I am just confused and a little let down, because the synopsis had me stoked. Ultimately, I could have done without reading The 11th Hour.
Popsugar 2018 Reading Challenge: (Advanced) A book about a problem facing society today
May 9, 2018
***I do my reviews in the form of questions***
What made me pick this book up:
I saw it on Netgalley and the cover looked so creepy and ominous, I just had to read it.
What did I like about the cover:
It's a beautiful picture. The fog is nice and creepy, it fits well with the book.
What made me read this book:
The cover and the synopsis. It was on netgalley to read and review and I thought, why not? Looks like a good read. It also fits in with one of my tasks.
What did I like the most:
I really don't think there was anything I liked about this book. I guess the old man at the end with his dog was sweet...
What didn't I like:
Well... Let's start with characters. Annika? Naive, immature, whiny, pretty dumb. Dylan? Whiny, annoying, freaked out so easily. Might be slight spoilers coming up...
I know he's that way for a reason, and it's really not his fault. But seriously, come on. I think I'm just a little done with whiny teen books.
Anyway!
The characters were flat, the story was slow, and had no build up. I didn't care what happened to them. The only thing that kept me going was it was a short book, and I needed it for my task.
I really think with books like these they should have trigger warnings, or something. I understand it's good to get it out there, it needs to be discussed. But some people are triggered so easily.
Would I read the rest of the series/more from this author?
I might... Maybe it was just an off book? If I read another one by her and don't like it, I won't try it again. But maybe her other ones aren't bad.
Not going to lie, I was super excited for this book. It had so much potential, so much that could have happened, and didn't. I was so disappointed.
What made me pick this book up:
I saw it on Netgalley and the cover looked so creepy and ominous, I just had to read it.
What did I like about the cover:
It's a beautiful picture. The fog is nice and creepy, it fits well with the book.
What made me read this book:
The cover and the synopsis. It was on netgalley to read and review and I thought, why not? Looks like a good read. It also fits in with one of my tasks.
What did I like the most:
I really don't think there was anything I liked about this book. I guess the old man at the end with his dog was sweet...
What didn't I like:
Well... Let's start with characters. Annika? Naive, immature, whiny, pretty dumb. Dylan? Whiny, annoying, freaked out so easily. Might be slight spoilers coming up...
I know he's that way for a reason, and it's really not his fault. But seriously, come on. I think I'm just a little done with whiny teen books.
Anyway!
The characters were flat, the story was slow, and had no build up. I didn't care what happened to them. The only thing that kept me going was it was a short book, and I needed it for my task.
I really think with books like these they should have trigger warnings, or something. I understand it's good to get it out there, it needs to be discussed. But some people are triggered so easily.
Would I read the rest of the series/more from this author?
I might... Maybe it was just an off book? If I read another one by her and don't like it, I won't try it again. But maybe her other ones aren't bad.
Not going to lie, I was super excited for this book. It had so much potential, so much that could have happened, and didn't. I was so disappointed.
March 17, 2018
I was a little hesitant about this book's premise, but it ended up amazing. Anni's character arc is fully established and her narrative voice just adds to who she is. I wish Dylan had been given the same depth, because he was an interesting character that I wanted to know better. Overall, it was an interesting read and I enjoyed it!
January 23, 2018
My review for CM can be found here:
http://www.umanitoba.ca/cm/vol24/no14...
http://www.umanitoba.ca/cm/vol24/no14...
October 20, 2018
This novel alternates voices between Annika and Dylan who decide to run away to live together in Dylan's family's cabin since their families don't approve of their relationship. Annika begins to realize that Dylan is becoming more and more controlling of her as his mood swings become more and more violent. When Annika realizes that Dylan has been lying to her, she finally understands that she is in great danger.
This novel is a gripping page turner that teens would enjoy if they like to read thrillers. From Dylan's first chapter onward, there is something not quite right about him and the reader begins to suspect that he is unpredictable. The danger for Annika mounts gradually and the reader becomes invested in her survival.
The ending will leave you shocked!
This novel is a gripping page turner that teens would enjoy if they like to read thrillers. From Dylan's first chapter onward, there is something not quite right about him and the reader begins to suspect that he is unpredictable. The danger for Annika mounts gradually and the reader becomes invested in her survival.
The ending will leave you shocked!
August 29, 2024
The path of true love is seldom easy
Seventeen-year-old Annika is in love with Dylan. Never mind her kid brother or her parents, who have an earlier version of Annika in mind. She wants to get serious with the guy. Dylan has his own demons. Things get intense. The ending really made me stop and think.
Seventeen-year-old Annika is in love with Dylan. Never mind her kid brother or her parents, who have an earlier version of Annika in mind. She wants to get serious with the guy. Dylan has his own demons. Things get intense. The ending really made me stop and think.
July 4, 2019
It was a good short read. It deals with a lot of issues but specifically mental illness and the toll it can have on a person. While I would have liked more background information, the ending did surprise me. It’s was good overall.
March 5, 2023
The book alternates between Annika and Dylan's perspective which allows the read to realize that dylan is not a reliable narrator as he's out of touch with reality. The story takes a while to get into but the ending was definitely worth the wait.
June 29, 2018
This book was too short to fully explore the plot.
October 29, 2019
This book is full of surprises. So many things I didn't see coming (but should have!) even though the book is told from two points-of-view. Very well crafted.
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