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Have a Little Faith in Me
"Saved!" meets To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before in this laugh-out-loud romantic comedy that takes a meaningful look at consent and what it means to give it.
When CeCe’s born-again ex-boyfriend dumps her after they have sex, she follows him to Jesus camp in order to win him back. Problem: She knows nothing about Jesus. But her best friend Paul does. He accompanies CeCe to camp, and the plan—God’s or CeCe’s—goes immediately awry when her ex shows up with a new girlfriend, a True Believer at that.
Scrambling to save face, CeCe ropes Paul into faking a relationship. But as deceptions stack up, she questions whether her ex is really the nice guy he seemed. And what about her strange new feelings for Paul—is this love, lust, or an illusion born of heartbreak? To figure it out, she’ll have to confront the reasons she chased her ex to camp in the first place, including the truth about the night she lost her virginity.
When CeCe’s born-again ex-boyfriend dumps her after they have sex, she follows him to Jesus camp in order to win him back. Problem: She knows nothing about Jesus. But her best friend Paul does. He accompanies CeCe to camp, and the plan—God’s or CeCe’s—goes immediately awry when her ex shows up with a new girlfriend, a True Believer at that.
Scrambling to save face, CeCe ropes Paul into faking a relationship. But as deceptions stack up, she questions whether her ex is really the nice guy he seemed. And what about her strange new feelings for Paul—is this love, lust, or an illusion born of heartbreak? To figure it out, she’ll have to confront the reasons she chased her ex to camp in the first place, including the truth about the night she lost her virginity.
Unknown Binding
First published September 3, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 196 reviews
August 10, 2021
THIS is what I want feminist contemporaries to be.
I don't want the number 1 item on the to-do list to be "nonsense quest no one cares about." I want it to go like: characters, relationships between characters, then maybe plot or setting and THEN nonsense feminist quest.
And if the quest is not nonsense, all the better.
I like these characters a lot. I cared about the friendships and - dare I say - even the romance. I was invested in our protagonist and co.'s attempts to educate Christian teens about sex and generally be sex positive. It was very cool.
Unlike, cough cough, allowing girls to become knights at one specific Medieval Times, and whatever was going on in Moxie.
Bottom line: Such a pleasant surprise!!!
---------------
pre-review
never thought i'd wish i could spend my summer at a religious camp, but here we are.
review to come / 4 stars
---------------
challenging myself to read as many review copies as possible this month because i'm addicted to projects!
ARC 1: spaceman of bohemia
ARC 2: in search of us
ARC 3: aerialists
ARC 4: the sound of drowning
ARC 5: unleaving
ARC 6: the other side of luck
ARC 7: romanov
ARC 8: the storm keeper's island
ARC 9: gut check
ARC 10: when force meets fate
ARC 11: sisters in hate
ARC 12: before i disappear
ARC 13: big time
ARC 14: stolen science
ARC 15: have a little faith in me
I don't want the number 1 item on the to-do list to be "nonsense quest no one cares about." I want it to go like: characters, relationships between characters, then maybe plot or setting and THEN nonsense feminist quest.
And if the quest is not nonsense, all the better.
I like these characters a lot. I cared about the friendships and - dare I say - even the romance. I was invested in our protagonist and co.'s attempts to educate Christian teens about sex and generally be sex positive. It was very cool.
Unlike, cough cough, allowing girls to become knights at one specific Medieval Times, and whatever was going on in Moxie.
Bottom line: Such a pleasant surprise!!!
---------------
pre-review
never thought i'd wish i could spend my summer at a religious camp, but here we are.
review to come / 4 stars
---------------
challenging myself to read as many review copies as possible this month because i'm addicted to projects!
ARC 1: spaceman of bohemia
ARC 2: in search of us
ARC 3: aerialists
ARC 4: the sound of drowning
ARC 5: unleaving
ARC 6: the other side of luck
ARC 7: romanov
ARC 8: the storm keeper's island
ARC 9: gut check
ARC 10: when force meets fate
ARC 11: sisters in hate
ARC 12: before i disappear
ARC 13: big time
ARC 14: stolen science
ARC 15: have a little faith in me
August 4, 2020
This was an incredible debut and honestly just an all around delight. I'm so glad I finally got around to pulling this one off of my shelf and I can't wait to read Sonia Hartl's new book that conveniently comes out in less than a month!!
TW: coercion, misogyny, religious intolerance, struggles with/loss of faith
TW: coercion, misogyny, religious intolerance, struggles with/loss of faith
September 30, 2019
Find all of my reviews at: http://52bookminimum.blogspot.com/
“Watch me double backflip on a half-pipe for Jesus.”
CeCe thought she and Ethan were a perfect match – so much so that she offered up her V-card to him. When Ethan decided to end things in order to become a “born again virgin” CeCe was willing to do anything to get him back – including attending Camp John 3:16 . . . .
The only problem? CeCe isn’t what you’d call a Christian. Luckily, her lifelong bestie/neighbor Paul is (or at least used to be) and was willing to tag along. What neither of them bargained for was Ethan having a pre-established “camp girlfriend” and needing to fake a romantic relationship of their own in order for CeCe to maintain her well-planned cover . . . .
“They won’t kick you out for not knowing as much Scripture as they do. But they might try to baptize you.”
“Joke’s on them. I took care of that before we came.”
“You? Got baptized? Where did this take place?”
“You have to promise not to laugh in my face.”
“Swear.”
“Okay, so you know that guy who hangs out on Wilson and East? The one with the long beard who wears a THE END IS NEAR sandwich board?”
“I think I can see where this is going . . . .”
Let’s be real honest here and say going into this I was aware that I would probably be willing to be very forgiving before giving this a 1 Star rating. I mean, that cover? That title? That shoutout to Saved in the blurb?????
I’ll also admit I had some momentary disappointment that there wasn’t more of this included in this story . . . .
But that quickly passed when I realized that this is quite possibly the best YA book I’ve ever read when it comes to talking openly about consent and sex (and abstinence) and antiquated beliefs about “asking for it” and how the three most important words that are said between two people before/during/after they have sex probably shouldn’t be “I Love You” but rather “Is This Okay” or “Are You Okay?” It’s about taking control of your own body and the choices you make with respect to what you feel comfortable doing with it, and it gets every single star for being presented in such a humorous/non-preachy way. Because, come on . . . . .
And also?
“Losing your virginity sucks. Nobody knows what the hell they’re doing.”
Standing ovation to Sonia Hartl for this one.
“Watch me double backflip on a half-pipe for Jesus.”
CeCe thought she and Ethan were a perfect match – so much so that she offered up her V-card to him. When Ethan decided to end things in order to become a “born again virgin” CeCe was willing to do anything to get him back – including attending Camp John 3:16 . . . .
The only problem? CeCe isn’t what you’d call a Christian. Luckily, her lifelong bestie/neighbor Paul is (or at least used to be) and was willing to tag along. What neither of them bargained for was Ethan having a pre-established “camp girlfriend” and needing to fake a romantic relationship of their own in order for CeCe to maintain her well-planned cover . . . .
“They won’t kick you out for not knowing as much Scripture as they do. But they might try to baptize you.”
“Joke’s on them. I took care of that before we came.”
“You? Got baptized? Where did this take place?”
“You have to promise not to laugh in my face.”
“Swear.”
“Okay, so you know that guy who hangs out on Wilson and East? The one with the long beard who wears a THE END IS NEAR sandwich board?”
“I think I can see where this is going . . . .”
Let’s be real honest here and say going into this I was aware that I would probably be willing to be very forgiving before giving this a 1 Star rating. I mean, that cover? That title? That shoutout to Saved in the blurb?????
I’ll also admit I had some momentary disappointment that there wasn’t more of this included in this story . . . .
But that quickly passed when I realized that this is quite possibly the best YA book I’ve ever read when it comes to talking openly about consent and sex (and abstinence) and antiquated beliefs about “asking for it” and how the three most important words that are said between two people before/during/after they have sex probably shouldn’t be “I Love You” but rather “Is This Okay” or “Are You Okay?” It’s about taking control of your own body and the choices you make with respect to what you feel comfortable doing with it, and it gets every single star for being presented in such a humorous/non-preachy way. Because, come on . . . . .
And also?
“Losing your virginity sucks. Nobody knows what the hell they’re doing.”
Standing ovation to Sonia Hartl for this one.
September 7, 2019
3 Stars ⭐️
June 22, 2019
Official blurb: "This book reminded me why I fell in love with YA. HAVE A LITTLE FAITH IN ME is both hilarious and poignant, with an unforgettable cast of characters led by fierce but vulnerable CeCe. She asks all the questions about relationships and sexuality I kept locked in my mind as a teen, and her desire for answers broke my heart and then filled it up. An immediate favorite."
One of the best books I've read all year. Sonia's voice is authentic, clever, and utterly captivating. Everything is so respectfully, sensitively done, from discussions about religion to the topic of consent. Nothing is shied away from, and yet nothing feels heavy-handed. This book also has some of the most positive, woman-centered sex scenes I've read in YA, and I ADORE Paul.
One of the best books I've read all year. Sonia's voice is authentic, clever, and utterly captivating. Everything is so respectfully, sensitively done, from discussions about religion to the topic of consent. Nothing is shied away from, and yet nothing feels heavy-handed. This book also has some of the most positive, woman-centered sex scenes I've read in YA, and I ADORE Paul.
Read
July 7, 2019I'm so happy I loved this as much as I'd hoped to based on the description. I love YAs that serve kind of a "sex ed" function and this one does a beautiful job with "emotional sex ed," which I think is really important and really underserved by the category. I also loved the summer camp vibes and the extremely shippable couple, and as a religious person, I just dig YA with religious themes in general, but I think this is a book that very much works whether you do too or not.
July 4, 2019
Thank you to NetGalley for providing and eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Have a Little Faith In Me is a book that talks about really important issues, like consent, sexuality, religion, to mention a few, yet is very hard to rate, as it doesn't really deliver.
I went into it expecting a funny but poignant story about a girl who goes to Jesus camp to win over her ex-boyfriend, but ends up falling for someone else, and I got the first part, but not the second. If I were to rate the first ¾ of the book, it would've definitely gotten 4 stars from me. But, unfortunately, the last ¼ was more worthy of 2 stars. This ending made me nearly give this whole book 2 stars, but I didn't think it was fair.
Let's start with things I enjoyed. I liked CeCe at the start of the book. She was a strong main character and fought hard to hide her insecurities. Loud and kind of impetuous, she was a great narrator. He ex-boyfriend, Ethan, dumped her 2 days after they had sex, to get closer to God and reclaim his virginity, yet she was still hell bent on winning him back. She had spirit, she was driven. A bit brash as well. Very enjoyable to read from.
The plot of the book was what I enjoyed the most. A typical romcom with an unusual setting, it was something I didn't think I wanted to read, but ended up appreciating. I do think it would work better in a movie, though. A girl making friends she'd never think she could be friends with, and falling for her best friend. Nothing new or ground breaking, but definitely enjoyable. That's where the praise ends.
This book was trying to teach about what it means to give consent, about sexuality, about how religion deals with sexuality, about slut shaming and victim blaming. I think it gave a good effort, but the ending ruined any kind of message the book had going on. CeCe didn't develop at all. She was getting there, understanding what went wrong with her relationship with Ethan, how what she wanted wasn't a boyfriend, just attention. She admits to being selfish, yet doesn't change.
What made me starting to dislike the book was the incredibly graphic yet clinical sex scene, and the dialogue and build up, or rather the lack of any kind of build up, to it. I would happily glance over CeCe having no obvious reasons to be in love with Paul, other than the attention she was getting from him, but the whole - let's go and have sex because I want to teach other girls about enjoyable sex and I'm also jealous other girls that were ultra Christian had an orgasm before me – when she clearly wasn't ready, and Paul, who was supposed to be the voice of reason, going along with it and saying stuff like (actual quotes) “I'd rather spend the rest of my day and night buried inside you.” And “I don't care what you've got on; you won't be wearing it long anyway.” I mean, I'm no prude, but Jesus Christ, it's just... bad. Very bad.
I also wasn't a fan of the way religion was portrayed in this book. I consider myself an atheist, and I don't agree with a lot of the Christian church teachings, much like CeCe, yet I feel like I have enough respect for people and their beliefs to let them have their camp, teachings, etc. CeCe was an intruder in the camp. Even if she's taught some girls who were clueless about certain things involving sex, she took it too far at the end of the book. She acted like a child throughout the book, and I had hopes she'd learn and develop, but unfortunately she didn't.
The more I talk about this book, the more I realise it deserves 2, not 3 stars, at least from me. It was a good idea, and the execution wasn't half bad for some of it, but most of it was unfortunately a miss. A missed opportunity to convey an important message.
Have a Little Faith In Me is a book that talks about really important issues, like consent, sexuality, religion, to mention a few, yet is very hard to rate, as it doesn't really deliver.
I went into it expecting a funny but poignant story about a girl who goes to Jesus camp to win over her ex-boyfriend, but ends up falling for someone else, and I got the first part, but not the second. If I were to rate the first ¾ of the book, it would've definitely gotten 4 stars from me. But, unfortunately, the last ¼ was more worthy of 2 stars. This ending made me nearly give this whole book 2 stars, but I didn't think it was fair.
Let's start with things I enjoyed. I liked CeCe at the start of the book. She was a strong main character and fought hard to hide her insecurities. Loud and kind of impetuous, she was a great narrator. He ex-boyfriend, Ethan, dumped her 2 days after they had sex, to get closer to God and reclaim his virginity, yet she was still hell bent on winning him back. She had spirit, she was driven. A bit brash as well. Very enjoyable to read from.
The plot of the book was what I enjoyed the most. A typical romcom with an unusual setting, it was something I didn't think I wanted to read, but ended up appreciating. I do think it would work better in a movie, though. A girl making friends she'd never think she could be friends with, and falling for her best friend. Nothing new or ground breaking, but definitely enjoyable. That's where the praise ends.
This book was trying to teach about what it means to give consent, about sexuality, about how religion deals with sexuality, about slut shaming and victim blaming. I think it gave a good effort, but the ending ruined any kind of message the book had going on. CeCe didn't develop at all. She was getting there, understanding what went wrong with her relationship with Ethan, how what she wanted wasn't a boyfriend, just attention. She admits to being selfish, yet doesn't change.
What made me starting to dislike the book was the incredibly graphic yet clinical sex scene, and the dialogue and build up, or rather the lack of any kind of build up, to it. I would happily glance over CeCe having no obvious reasons to be in love with Paul, other than the attention she was getting from him, but the whole - let's go and have sex because I want to teach other girls about enjoyable sex and I'm also jealous other girls that were ultra Christian had an orgasm before me – when she clearly wasn't ready, and Paul, who was supposed to be the voice of reason, going along with it and saying stuff like (actual quotes) “I'd rather spend the rest of my day and night buried inside you.” And “I don't care what you've got on; you won't be wearing it long anyway.” I mean, I'm no prude, but Jesus Christ, it's just... bad. Very bad.
I also wasn't a fan of the way religion was portrayed in this book. I consider myself an atheist, and I don't agree with a lot of the Christian church teachings, much like CeCe, yet I feel like I have enough respect for people and their beliefs to let them have their camp, teachings, etc. CeCe was an intruder in the camp. Even if she's taught some girls who were clueless about certain things involving sex, she took it too far at the end of the book. She acted like a child throughout the book, and I had hopes she'd learn and develop, but unfortunately she didn't.
The more I talk about this book, the more I realise it deserves 2, not 3 stars, at least from me. It was a good idea, and the execution wasn't half bad for some of it, but most of it was unfortunately a miss. A missed opportunity to convey an important message.
November 11, 2019
Really enjoyed this one:) Not too preachy and tackles some touchy/tough subjects well.
Some of the humor had me cracking up more than others but none of it felt stale to me.
Would recommend:)
Some of the humor had me cracking up more than others but none of it felt stale to me.
Would recommend:)
September 4, 2019
You can find the full review and all the fancy and/or randomness that accompanies it at It Starts at Midnight
Do... do you see those comps? "'Saved!' meets To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before"? Like seriously how was I not going to pick this up, those are straight up two of my favorite things in this world. But then I was scared because come on, could this really live up to two of my favorite things in this world? Why, yes, yes it freaking can, because it did.
What I Loved:
• The discussion/commentary on religion was handled really well. So, CeCe is pretty solidly anti-religion at the start of the book. Obviously, she's upset that her crappy boyfriend dumped her, citing religion as his reason. Add to it that religion has never been an important part of her life, and she's thinking pretty poorly of Christians as a whole. But here's the main thing: the author doesn't vilify religion or Christianity. Does Ethan, the ex-boyfriend, suck? You bet. And yes, he happens to be Christian. But the author introduces so many wonderful examples of Christian people that it makes CeCe think twice about her views, which is a pretty great message.
Likewise, she doesn't shy away from some of the more dangerous messages that religions (and often Christianity) can spread, especially to young women. Because shaming women for existing is simply not okay. In one example, CeCe is shamed for not wearing a "proper" swimsuit, because god forbid she owns a stomach. Ethan feels perfectly justified in painting CeCe as some kind of temptress, when clearly they were both consenting participants. He is welcomed back as "reformed", while CeCe basically has a scarlet letter painted on her.
Essentially, through CeCe's journey, the author showcased that there are fabulous faith-driven people, while still acknowledging that there is work to be done in many religious organizations, especially in terms of women and LGBT+ communities.
• Frankly, it's funny as hell. The whole book was just beyond compulsively readable because it was just so damn charming. CeCe cracked me up, her best friend Paul cracked me up, and some of the instances they found themselves in were hilarious. It's heartwarming as well, but the humor was just done so well that it brought the characters to life.
• Sex positivity FTW! Obviously it's clear that sex is going to play a role in this story based on the synopsis, but I think the author handled it so, so well. She addressed consent and protection, as well as simply making it clear that it's okay to ask about stuff. That it's cool to have experience and it's equally cool to not have experience; fine to be ready and fine to not be. There was no shame in any choice whatsoever, as long as the character(s) in question was comfortable. It was great that the author was able to shine such a positive light on the topic while still making clear that it's not for everyone at every time.
• Such a focus on friendships! One of the highlights that I wasn't expecting was CeCe's blossoming friendships with the other girls in her cabin. They all came from such different backgrounds, and yet they still came together and bonded. It's absolutely a highlight of the book, as proof that one can find their people in the least expected of places.
• Romance and relationship talk abound! Look would this even be a book about a summer camp if there was no love drama? Well, there was and it was really fun. Some people I shipped together, a lot. I will keep it vague but. I was rooting for certain people from the start. And so many of the girls were discovering their own needs and desires from relationships, and it was just a really refreshing perspective.
Bottom Line: This one lived up to my expectations and then some. It's fun, it's witty, it's heartwarming, and I flat out couldn't put it down. You need this book in your life.
Do... do you see those comps? "'Saved!' meets To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before"? Like seriously how was I not going to pick this up, those are straight up two of my favorite things in this world. But then I was scared because come on, could this really live up to two of my favorite things in this world? Why, yes, yes it freaking can, because it did.
What I Loved:
• The discussion/commentary on religion was handled really well. So, CeCe is pretty solidly anti-religion at the start of the book. Obviously, she's upset that her crappy boyfriend dumped her, citing religion as his reason. Add to it that religion has never been an important part of her life, and she's thinking pretty poorly of Christians as a whole. But here's the main thing: the author doesn't vilify religion or Christianity. Does Ethan, the ex-boyfriend, suck? You bet. And yes, he happens to be Christian. But the author introduces so many wonderful examples of Christian people that it makes CeCe think twice about her views, which is a pretty great message.
Likewise, she doesn't shy away from some of the more dangerous messages that religions (and often Christianity) can spread, especially to young women. Because shaming women for existing is simply not okay. In one example, CeCe is shamed for not wearing a "proper" swimsuit, because god forbid she owns a stomach. Ethan feels perfectly justified in painting CeCe as some kind of temptress, when clearly they were both consenting participants. He is welcomed back as "reformed", while CeCe basically has a scarlet letter painted on her.
Essentially, through CeCe's journey, the author showcased that there are fabulous faith-driven people, while still acknowledging that there is work to be done in many religious organizations, especially in terms of women and LGBT+ communities.
• Frankly, it's funny as hell. The whole book was just beyond compulsively readable because it was just so damn charming. CeCe cracked me up, her best friend Paul cracked me up, and some of the instances they found themselves in were hilarious. It's heartwarming as well, but the humor was just done so well that it brought the characters to life.
• Sex positivity FTW! Obviously it's clear that sex is going to play a role in this story based on the synopsis, but I think the author handled it so, so well. She addressed consent and protection, as well as simply making it clear that it's okay to ask about stuff. That it's cool to have experience and it's equally cool to not have experience; fine to be ready and fine to not be. There was no shame in any choice whatsoever, as long as the character(s) in question was comfortable. It was great that the author was able to shine such a positive light on the topic while still making clear that it's not for everyone at every time.
• Such a focus on friendships! One of the highlights that I wasn't expecting was CeCe's blossoming friendships with the other girls in her cabin. They all came from such different backgrounds, and yet they still came together and bonded. It's absolutely a highlight of the book, as proof that one can find their people in the least expected of places.
• Romance and relationship talk abound! Look would this even be a book about a summer camp if there was no love drama? Well, there was and it was really fun. Some people I shipped together, a lot. I will keep it vague but. I was rooting for certain people from the start. And so many of the girls were discovering their own needs and desires from relationships, and it was just a really refreshing perspective.
Bottom Line: This one lived up to my expectations and then some. It's fun, it's witty, it's heartwarming, and I flat out couldn't put it down. You need this book in your life.
September 8, 2019
i received a review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. all opinions below are my own.
in my arc august post, i mentioned my excitement for have a little faith in me, since it has some of my all-time favorite tropes – best friends to lovers, fake relationships, childhood friend romance and the clichést cliché – boy who pretends he doesn’t love girl but actually does, and it did not disappoint!
this book reminded me of frat girl by kiley roache, in which the protagonist, cassie, gave a sex ed class to frat boys. in have a little faith in me, the main character, cece, teaches her cabinmates and other female campers about safe sex and how to protect themselves, and i loved seeing girls who are raised and taught to view premarital sex as a sin treat this with open minds.
the author did a good job exploring the topics of sex and feminism. the parts about consent, and how women do not have to be responsible for dressing conservatively just to prevent sexual assault from males, are handled so amazingly well, and i loved it. i also loved how the characters are open about their sexual experiences and are not afraid to share what they know with the less experienced.
other than that, the friendship in this book is the best. cece’s cabinmates clearly know that cece’s not really a christian, but they don’t judge her at all, and even offer to become her friend. they even back cece up when she challenges the camp director’s values and how some people interpret christianity, and it was truly moving seeing them bond and trust in each other. they are the sweetest girls ever, and i love how they forgive each other quickly after a fight, and try to understand each other’s views.
paul and cece’s relationship was also so stinking adorable. they have a tradition of making up and telling stories to cheer each other up, and i was already rooting for them from the very beginning. paul is not perfect – after his dad left him and his mom for another woman, he starts to get himself into casual relationships to protect himself from getting heartbroken again, but i loved him so much because he always makes cece feel safe and loved, and he knows how to respect and properly treat women. must protect paul at all costs.
on top of everything, this book is hilarious. i was literally shaking with laughter when reading it (, earning me some weird stares on the train). cece is so sassy and funny and i love her personality and the way she narrates the story and describes everything. it made cece more three-dimensional as a character, and the story, so much more enjoyable.
this book has its flaws though. growing up catholic, and having attended a catholic primary school and an anglican secondary school, i have made many devoted christian friends, and none of them talk like the characters in the book. they don’t throw bible quotes at each other. they don’t refer to their ex as a “seductress sent to them by satan”. different people have different ways of worshipping, and i’m not saying the author’s depiction of christians is completely wrong, but i simply find it a bit unrealistic. still, i liked how the author showed in her writing that while some christians can be utter assholes, like cece’s ex, ethan, others, like cece’s cabinmates, can be amazing people.
have a little faith in me is a book full of important messages and beautiful relationships, served with a huge heap of laughs. i’m looking forward to reading more of sonia hartl’s books 😀
in my arc august post, i mentioned my excitement for have a little faith in me, since it has some of my all-time favorite tropes – best friends to lovers, fake relationships, childhood friend romance and the clichést cliché – boy who pretends he doesn’t love girl but actually does, and it did not disappoint!
this book reminded me of frat girl by kiley roache, in which the protagonist, cassie, gave a sex ed class to frat boys. in have a little faith in me, the main character, cece, teaches her cabinmates and other female campers about safe sex and how to protect themselves, and i loved seeing girls who are raised and taught to view premarital sex as a sin treat this with open minds.
the author did a good job exploring the topics of sex and feminism. the parts about consent, and how women do not have to be responsible for dressing conservatively just to prevent sexual assault from males, are handled so amazingly well, and i loved it. i also loved how the characters are open about their sexual experiences and are not afraid to share what they know with the less experienced.
other than that, the friendship in this book is the best. cece’s cabinmates clearly know that cece’s not really a christian, but they don’t judge her at all, and even offer to become her friend. they even back cece up when she challenges the camp director’s values and how some people interpret christianity, and it was truly moving seeing them bond and trust in each other. they are the sweetest girls ever, and i love how they forgive each other quickly after a fight, and try to understand each other’s views.
paul and cece’s relationship was also so stinking adorable. they have a tradition of making up and telling stories to cheer each other up, and i was already rooting for them from the very beginning. paul is not perfect – after his dad left him and his mom for another woman, he starts to get himself into casual relationships to protect himself from getting heartbroken again, but i loved him so much because he always makes cece feel safe and loved, and he knows how to respect and properly treat women. must protect paul at all costs.
on top of everything, this book is hilarious. i was literally shaking with laughter when reading it (, earning me some weird stares on the train). cece is so sassy and funny and i love her personality and the way she narrates the story and describes everything. it made cece more three-dimensional as a character, and the story, so much more enjoyable.
this book has its flaws though. growing up catholic, and having attended a catholic primary school and an anglican secondary school, i have made many devoted christian friends, and none of them talk like the characters in the book. they don’t throw bible quotes at each other. they don’t refer to their ex as a “seductress sent to them by satan”. different people have different ways of worshipping, and i’m not saying the author’s depiction of christians is completely wrong, but i simply find it a bit unrealistic. still, i liked how the author showed in her writing that while some christians can be utter assholes, like cece’s ex, ethan, others, like cece’s cabinmates, can be amazing people.
have a little faith in me is a book full of important messages and beautiful relationships, served with a huge heap of laughs. i’m looking forward to reading more of sonia hartl’s books 😀
July 16, 2018
THIS BOOK. I was able to read an early copy and it has my heart forever.
Fiercely feminist, uproariously funny, and simultaneously heart-wrenchingly tender, this book is a true gem. It explores so many important issues (sex ed, healthy vs unhealthy relationships, religion) with both care and humour.
I cannot wait to read it again.
Fiercely feminist, uproariously funny, and simultaneously heart-wrenchingly tender, this book is a true gem. It explores so many important issues (sex ed, healthy vs unhealthy relationships, religion) with both care and humour.
I cannot wait to read it again.
September 2, 2019
Rating: 4.5 Stars
CeCe thought she meant something to Ethan, but after her broke up with her, in the name of the Lord, she was hurt and determined to prove to him that his faith was also important to her in order to win him back. "Jesus camp" proved to be quite a challenge for CeCe, but there she found friendship, love, and understanding.
Let me tell you, I utterly adored this book, and here are some reasons why:
• I thought the characters in this book were stupendous, and I enjoyed getting to know them. They were interesting and layered, and many really surprised me. I was so happy, that Hartl resisted painting them as stereotypes, because they played a huge role in my enjoyment of this story.
• The friendship between CeCe and Paul was so wonderful. They had so much history, and I loved all the small peeks we got into their past.
• Paul was just flawed perfection. Maybe he held people at a distance, and maybe he was resistant to getting into any serious romantic relationships, but he had a huge, soft, and tender heart.
• THE STORIES!! Paul and CeCe would tell each other these really meaningful made up stories. I think I was more partial to Paul's, because they were epic, but I enjoyed this facet of their relationship very much.
• The girls of cabin 8 were such a fantastic group. I adored the friendship that developed between this group of young women, and was so happy CeCe had the luck of meeting them all.
• Hartl did a wonderful job exploring the emotional side of sex, as well as delving into the many aspects of consent. This is something I would love to see more of in YA, and not only was it a big part of CeCe's story, it was done well, in my opinion.
• The story also puts CeCe's fauxmance with Paul side-by-side with her past relationship with Ethan. It was a great way to show a healthy versus an unhealthy relationship, which is something I definitely would have benefited from as a teen.
• I appreciated that the author did not villainize all Christians or Christianity in general, but rather, showed that there are some bad people who choose to weaponize religion. CeCe encountered several characters like that, but she also met a lot of really wonderful Christians too, and I liked that Hartl elected to show both sides.
I expected a wholly hilarious book, and this book was indeed funny, but it was also really emotional, heartfelt, and meaningful. I laughed, I raged, I nodded my head in agreement, and most importantly, I finished this story with a smile on my face.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
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CeCe thought she meant something to Ethan, but after her broke up with her, in the name of the Lord, she was hurt and determined to prove to him that his faith was also important to her in order to win him back. "Jesus camp" proved to be quite a challenge for CeCe, but there she found friendship, love, and understanding.
Let me tell you, I utterly adored this book, and here are some reasons why:
• I thought the characters in this book were stupendous, and I enjoyed getting to know them. They were interesting and layered, and many really surprised me. I was so happy, that Hartl resisted painting them as stereotypes, because they played a huge role in my enjoyment of this story.
• The friendship between CeCe and Paul was so wonderful. They had so much history, and I loved all the small peeks we got into their past.
• Paul was just flawed perfection. Maybe he held people at a distance, and maybe he was resistant to getting into any serious romantic relationships, but he had a huge, soft, and tender heart.
• THE STORIES!! Paul and CeCe would tell each other these really meaningful made up stories. I think I was more partial to Paul's, because they were epic, but I enjoyed this facet of their relationship very much.
• The girls of cabin 8 were such a fantastic group. I adored the friendship that developed between this group of young women, and was so happy CeCe had the luck of meeting them all.
• Hartl did a wonderful job exploring the emotional side of sex, as well as delving into the many aspects of consent. This is something I would love to see more of in YA, and not only was it a big part of CeCe's story, it was done well, in my opinion.
• The story also puts CeCe's fauxmance with Paul side-by-side with her past relationship with Ethan. It was a great way to show a healthy versus an unhealthy relationship, which is something I definitely would have benefited from as a teen.
• I appreciated that the author did not villainize all Christians or Christianity in general, but rather, showed that there are some bad people who choose to weaponize religion. CeCe encountered several characters like that, but she also met a lot of really wonderful Christians too, and I liked that Hartl elected to show both sides.
I expected a wholly hilarious book, and this book was indeed funny, but it was also really emotional, heartfelt, and meaningful. I laughed, I raged, I nodded my head in agreement, and most importantly, I finished this story with a smile on my face.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
BLOG | INSTAGRAM |TWITTER | BLOGLOVIN | FRIEND ME ON GOODREADS
January 21, 2024
Well this was a delight! This was a really cute, charming and sweet romance novel. I really liked all of the characters and their banter. I loved the writing style it was completely clean, crisp and to the point. Overall this was a really fun and delightful book. Would recommend.
Oh, and childhood friends to lovers is the greatest trope mankind has ever invented and I will not hear any arguments to the contrary.
Oh, and childhood friends to lovers is the greatest trope mankind has ever invented and I will not hear any arguments to the contrary.
May 26, 2020
This book is why I love to read--funny, honest, 3D characters, friendship drama, romance, and authentic teen voice. A new favorite book of mine and a new book boyfriend too.
November 16, 2019
Positive discussions on safe sex. Check. Discussions that explore what consent actually means. Check. Girl squad. Check. The differences between healthy and non healthy relationships. Check. A lot more other important things that I'm too lazy to name. Check.
You know what's nice? As time goes on books are starting to include these things more and more, and it's actually just beautiful to see. I'm so happy that I'm growing up with books like these. I would literally be a completely different (and worse (off)) person without them.
You know what's nice? As time goes on books are starting to include these things more and more, and it's actually just beautiful to see. I'm so happy that I'm growing up with books like these. I would literally be a completely different (and worse (off)) person without them.
August 22, 2021
i love sex-positive deconstructions of christianity. also, best friends to lovers.
October 15, 2019
What a pleasantly surprising rom-com with a feminist, sex-positive twist!
Have a Little Faith in Me is a blast from cover to cover. When CeCe follows her ex-boyfriend to a religious summer camp in a misguided attempt to win him back, she quickly finds herself in over her head in an environment that seems quick to paint her as a sinner. But with the help of her best friend and some surprising allies at the camp itself, she learns some important lessons about love, about consent, and about her own self-worth.
Hartl’s debut novel tackles heavy issues through the lens of a teenage girl who’s quick to cover her own vulnerability with acerbic humor. CeCe’s sassy personality took me aback in the first several pages, but once you buckle up to enjoy the ride, you learn that there’s so much more to her than the façade she puts on for everyone outside her inner circle. It’s really a joy to see her peel back the layers as summer at “Jesus camp” turns out to be more trying than she had expected.
The characters really steal the show here, and one of my favorite relationships in the story is CeCe and Paul’s. They play off one another wonderfully. I’m a sucker for a good fake dating trope, and this one’s filled with plenty of cliche yet heartwarming moments. But beyond their chemistry is the wonderful contrast of their healthy relationship, rooted in years of trust and friendship, against the toxicity of CeCe’s relationship with Ethan. Paul is everything a best friend should be, patiently and stubbornly helping CeCe open her eyes to the truths that she doesn’t want to see.
I also absolutely loved the scenes with CeCe and her cabinmates. With internalized stereotypes on both sides of the table, there are certainly hurdles to overcome, but the gang hits it off immediately. The candid vulnerabilities and fierce loyalties shared in Cabin 8 and eventually spread throughout all of the girls at camp had me rooting for them every step of the way.
Admittedly, the motivation behind the plot is a little out there, and I had a couple of misgivings with the pacing of the ending, but that didn’t keep me from thoroughly enjoying Have a Little Faith in Me. All in all, it was a breeze to read, and I highly recommend it. I absolutely applaud this important and often overlooked take on consent, and I’m so glad to see more and more of these unapologetically feminist and sex-positive young adult novels hitting the shelves. Thank you, Sonia Hartl, for adding CeCe’s unforgettable voice to the movement.
Warm thanks to Page Street Publishing and the Fantastic Flying Book Club for providing me with a finished copy in exchange for an honest review.
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Have a Little Faith in Me is a blast from cover to cover. When CeCe follows her ex-boyfriend to a religious summer camp in a misguided attempt to win him back, she quickly finds herself in over her head in an environment that seems quick to paint her as a sinner. But with the help of her best friend and some surprising allies at the camp itself, she learns some important lessons about love, about consent, and about her own self-worth.
Hartl’s debut novel tackles heavy issues through the lens of a teenage girl who’s quick to cover her own vulnerability with acerbic humor. CeCe’s sassy personality took me aback in the first several pages, but once you buckle up to enjoy the ride, you learn that there’s so much more to her than the façade she puts on for everyone outside her inner circle. It’s really a joy to see her peel back the layers as summer at “Jesus camp” turns out to be more trying than she had expected.
The characters really steal the show here, and one of my favorite relationships in the story is CeCe and Paul’s. They play off one another wonderfully. I’m a sucker for a good fake dating trope, and this one’s filled with plenty of cliche yet heartwarming moments. But beyond their chemistry is the wonderful contrast of their healthy relationship, rooted in years of trust and friendship, against the toxicity of CeCe’s relationship with Ethan. Paul is everything a best friend should be, patiently and stubbornly helping CeCe open her eyes to the truths that she doesn’t want to see.
I also absolutely loved the scenes with CeCe and her cabinmates. With internalized stereotypes on both sides of the table, there are certainly hurdles to overcome, but the gang hits it off immediately. The candid vulnerabilities and fierce loyalties shared in Cabin 8 and eventually spread throughout all of the girls at camp had me rooting for them every step of the way.
Admittedly, the motivation behind the plot is a little out there, and I had a couple of misgivings with the pacing of the ending, but that didn’t keep me from thoroughly enjoying Have a Little Faith in Me. All in all, it was a breeze to read, and I highly recommend it. I absolutely applaud this important and often overlooked take on consent, and I’m so glad to see more and more of these unapologetically feminist and sex-positive young adult novels hitting the shelves. Thank you, Sonia Hartl, for adding CeCe’s unforgettable voice to the movement.
Warm thanks to Page Street Publishing and the Fantastic Flying Book Club for providing me with a finished copy in exchange for an honest review.
Let's connect!
Blog • Instagram • Twitter • Bloglovin'
February 23, 2020
I have a thing for fiction about teenagers struggling with faith. Could it be because I myself was a teenager struggling with faith, and who knows what such books could have meant to me then? Nah, that can’t be it.
Have a Little Faith in Me has a good title and cover, and an intriguing premise. Ethan broke up with CeCe abruptly, and is headed to Christian summer camp. Unbeknownst to him, CeCe decides to show up, pretending to be newly saved, to win him back. You will be shocked to learn this does not go to plan.
I was prepared to love this, but I had a hard time getting through it. Here’s two reasons why:
- CeCe and Paul have heart-to-hearts where they tell each other “stories” brimming with metaphors so heavy-handed it’s aggravating. At one point I said, “this is the worst,” out loud.
- The main issue I have is with pacing. The camp dynamics constantly shift. Big conflicts are introduced way too soon, then resolved way too quick. There’s no build-up, just arguments that begin and end out of nowhere, so characters can give an update on who they are atm. There’s not enough time for introspection between things happening, so characters feel inconsistent. Plus, as the book goes on, it becomes less and less about religion and more and more about sex. Which is a fine focus, but it feels like an essay where you write an introduction before you really know what your paper’s about.
I think Have a Little Faith in Me could have been much more interesting if the point of view switched between chapters. Switch between CeCe and Paul, or CeCe and Ethan, or all three. I do think the book contains some important messages about consent, shame, and finding support where you least expect it. I’d recommend if you like Katie Henry, The Book of Essie, or Autoboyography.
Have a Little Faith in Me has a good title and cover, and an intriguing premise. Ethan broke up with CeCe abruptly, and is headed to Christian summer camp. Unbeknownst to him, CeCe decides to show up, pretending to be newly saved, to win him back. You will be shocked to learn this does not go to plan.
I was prepared to love this, but I had a hard time getting through it. Here’s two reasons why:
- CeCe and Paul have heart-to-hearts where they tell each other “stories” brimming with metaphors so heavy-handed it’s aggravating. At one point I said, “this is the worst,” out loud.
- The main issue I have is with pacing. The camp dynamics constantly shift. Big conflicts are introduced way too soon, then resolved way too quick. There’s no build-up, just arguments that begin and end out of nowhere, so characters can give an update on who they are atm. There’s not enough time for introspection between things happening, so characters feel inconsistent. Plus, as the book goes on, it becomes less and less about religion and more and more about sex. Which is a fine focus, but it feels like an essay where you write an introduction before you really know what your paper’s about.
I think Have a Little Faith in Me could have been much more interesting if the point of view switched between chapters. Switch between CeCe and Paul, or CeCe and Ethan, or all three. I do think the book contains some important messages about consent, shame, and finding support where you least expect it. I’d recommend if you like Katie Henry, The Book of Essie, or Autoboyography.
July 16, 2020
I absolutely loved this book. It was laugh out loud funny and how can you not love Paul? It didn't fail to deliver when it said it was like Saved, either.
A lot of this book really resonated with me, as it challenged a lot of teachings I experienced in my own upbringing. My high school was run by a church, which also had its own youth camp in the mountains, and I had several week-long experiences where we got up, had a devotional, then breakfast, then a full morning of Bible study lectures, then lunch, then free time, then dinner and another Bible study. We were frequently taught that girls' bodies were shameful and girls were always at fault for boys thinking about sex.
I really appreciated how the author didn't criticize the faith, just certain aspects of it, and had great characters who were believers. I really loved the journey of the girls in cabin 8, though they wouldn't have lasted a day in the camps I attended. The author did a great job of teaching about healthy sex and relationships, especially consent!, and was able to put it in such a fun, entertaining package. It really shows the value in open communication, considering the feelings of others, and what a healthy relationship looks like compared to an unhealthy one. I really could have used a book like this once I went to college and started unpacking my upbringing, but even as an adult I found that there was something to be learned from it.
A lot of this book really resonated with me, as it challenged a lot of teachings I experienced in my own upbringing. My high school was run by a church, which also had its own youth camp in the mountains, and I had several week-long experiences where we got up, had a devotional, then breakfast, then a full morning of Bible study lectures, then lunch, then free time, then dinner and another Bible study. We were frequently taught that girls' bodies were shameful and girls were always at fault for boys thinking about sex.
I really appreciated how the author didn't criticize the faith, just certain aspects of it, and had great characters who were believers. I really loved the journey of the girls in cabin 8, though they wouldn't have lasted a day in the camps I attended. The author did a great job of teaching about healthy sex and relationships, especially consent!, and was able to put it in such a fun, entertaining package. It really shows the value in open communication, considering the feelings of others, and what a healthy relationship looks like compared to an unhealthy one. I really could have used a book like this once I went to college and started unpacking my upbringing, but even as an adult I found that there was something to be learned from it.
June 28, 2019
I've been following the author since she announced her deal on Twitter, and I was so pleased to get an early copy from NetGalley. Although I'm not a YA librarian, I love the occasional YA read, and this book did not disappoint. The protagonist, CeCe, is hilarious and real. I came from a school that was heavily evangelical/Christian, so I super-identified with her. CeCe falls for Ethan, a super-Christian, formerly homeschooled boy. After they have sex, he dumps her, and she's totally blindsided. Ethan claims he was tempted and that he needs to reclaim his virginity - so of course, CeCe decides to follow him to Jesus camp to get him back. One problem - CeCe isn't a Christian.
CeCe has to fake her way through camp - but luckily, she's convinced her best friend, Paul, to come with her and help. Paul's deadbeat dad was once a minister, and he'd been to the same camp years ago. She's all set to get Ethan back, but of course, things don't go as she planned.
I loved this book so much - I laughed so hard I almost peed a few times (I've had two babies, don't judge). I couldn't put it down - read it in two sittings. So many important issues of consent and religion, and a girl becoming a woman in the most true way.
CeCe has to fake her way through camp - but luckily, she's convinced her best friend, Paul, to come with her and help. Paul's deadbeat dad was once a minister, and he'd been to the same camp years ago. She's all set to get Ethan back, but of course, things don't go as she planned.
I loved this book so much - I laughed so hard I almost peed a few times (I've had two babies, don't judge). I couldn't put it down - read it in two sittings. So many important issues of consent and religion, and a girl becoming a woman in the most true way.
April 22, 2020
I started this book thing it was going to be cheesy. Girl and boy break up, she wants to get him back so she follows him somewhere, throw in her best friend who is probably in love with her. And it was that, but it was so much more.
It was about the different ways to be religious, about men being assholes to women, and most importantly, it showed that consent was more than just saying yes.
I see myself as a very progressive person, but I never thought about someone asking me if what they were doing was okay while we had sex. Like most people, I didn't realize that's something that could, even should happen
I thought I wouldnt learn from this book, but I did, and I'm glad.
It was about the different ways to be religious, about men being assholes to women, and most importantly, it showed that consent was more than just saying yes.
I see myself as a very progressive person, but I never thought about someone asking me if what they were doing was okay while we had sex. Like most people, I didn't realize that's something that could, even should happen
I thought I wouldnt learn from this book, but I did, and I'm glad.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 18, 2020
I wasn't into the whole religion thing but I always love friends to lovers!!!
Read
October 9, 2019Graded By: Rosemary
Cover Story: Kombucha Girl
BFF Charm: Meh
Swoonworthy Scale: 6
Talky Talk: Straight Up (to Heaven)
Bonus Factors: Church Camp, Sex Positivity
Relationship Status: See You Next Summer
Read the full book report here.
Cover Story: Kombucha Girl
BFF Charm: Meh
Swoonworthy Scale: 6
Talky Talk: Straight Up (to Heaven)
Bonus Factors: Church Camp, Sex Positivity
Relationship Status: See You Next Summer
Read the full book report here.
November 1, 2019
I went into reading this knowing, really knowing, I wasn't going to like it. A mainstream YA novel in no way is going to make anything Christian come off remotely positive and it's sad to say that I am right.
I'm not sure if the author had a bad experience with someone of that faith, but it's quite obvious she had a score to settle. If she had used any other religion, say Idk, islam, as the secondary subject of this novel, not only would have it not gone past the pitch, but if it happened there would be cries of islamophobia all over the literary world.
With that being said I liked the character of Paul. Despite his distaste for all things Christian I got him. I have been where he was. I know what it's like to walk away from a faith where you think everyone is hypocrites, but life and clarity brought me back. I realized I am not supposed to be looking to people because we are so imperfect. I'm supposed to be looking to God.
I guess my biggest gripe with the story was how exaggerated and just plain false a lot of the Christian parts were. I went to "Jesus" camp. We didn't call it that but that's not the point. I have been to a lot of testimony bonfire nights. I have had camp counselors, been a counselor myself and not one thing Hartl wrote rings true. Some girls wore bikinis, some didn't. There wasn't slut shaming or demanding someone change their bathing suit if it was deemed to revealing. No one confessed to having acne as a punishment for masturbating or anything close to that. My experience as a Christian has been mixed. I have met people who judge BUT I have also met a lot of Christians who show an awesome amount of grace. They speak the truth with love. Isn't that what we need sometimes? We are not made arriving. We are all a work in progress. And for me, I have learned more from the exhorting moments than just being told it's okay how I feel.
I really was hoping against hope that as I went on reading that even with all of CeeCe's judgement on God and the Christian life she would find some kind of sliver lining from the girls in cabin 8. But instead of them rubbing off on her the girl's end up hero worshipping CeeCee. She taught them how to put a condom on, how a hand job works. Real important stuff. And we wonder why STD's are at an all time high and HPV vaccine's might become mandated. As humans we never learn. None of their Christian influence made any impact on her. It was ALL about how amazing and free thinking CeeCee was. This character did not grow one iota. Through out the whole story she acts first and thinks later and for some reason that kind of behavior is looked up to. The girls oooo and ahhhh around her to the extent where they want her to come and visit and speak at their youth group. PUHlease.
Sad that Christianity had to be used as punching bag to get this story across. Which I'm not even sure what the point of the story was, but like I said, had it been any other religion, the story would not had even happened. Unlike CeeCee, don't judge a book by it's cover. There is so much more to the Bible and the Christian life than this very narrow minded biased portrayal.
I'm not sure if the author had a bad experience with someone of that faith, but it's quite obvious she had a score to settle. If she had used any other religion, say Idk, islam, as the secondary subject of this novel, not only would have it not gone past the pitch, but if it happened there would be cries of islamophobia all over the literary world.
With that being said I liked the character of Paul. Despite his distaste for all things Christian I got him. I have been where he was. I know what it's like to walk away from a faith where you think everyone is hypocrites, but life and clarity brought me back. I realized I am not supposed to be looking to people because we are so imperfect. I'm supposed to be looking to God.
I guess my biggest gripe with the story was how exaggerated and just plain false a lot of the Christian parts were. I went to "Jesus" camp. We didn't call it that but that's not the point. I have been to a lot of testimony bonfire nights. I have had camp counselors, been a counselor myself and not one thing Hartl wrote rings true. Some girls wore bikinis, some didn't. There wasn't slut shaming or demanding someone change their bathing suit if it was deemed to revealing. No one confessed to having acne as a punishment for masturbating or anything close to that. My experience as a Christian has been mixed. I have met people who judge BUT I have also met a lot of Christians who show an awesome amount of grace. They speak the truth with love. Isn't that what we need sometimes? We are not made arriving. We are all a work in progress. And for me, I have learned more from the exhorting moments than just being told it's okay how I feel.
I really was hoping against hope that as I went on reading that even with all of CeeCe's judgement on God and the Christian life she would find some kind of sliver lining from the girls in cabin 8. But instead of them rubbing off on her the girl's end up hero worshipping CeeCee. She taught them how to put a condom on, how a hand job works. Real important stuff. And we wonder why STD's are at an all time high and HPV vaccine's might become mandated. As humans we never learn. None of their Christian influence made any impact on her. It was ALL about how amazing and free thinking CeeCee was. This character did not grow one iota. Through out the whole story she acts first and thinks later and for some reason that kind of behavior is looked up to. The girls oooo and ahhhh around her to the extent where they want her to come and visit and speak at their youth group. PUHlease.
Sad that Christianity had to be used as punching bag to get this story across. Which I'm not even sure what the point of the story was, but like I said, had it been any other religion, the story would not had even happened. Unlike CeeCee, don't judge a book by it's cover. There is so much more to the Bible and the Christian life than this very narrow minded biased portrayal.
September 17, 2019
Review will be posted on September 1st for the Fantastic Flying Book Club Blog Tour on my blog Sometimes Leelynn Reads
Disclaimer: I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to Netgalley, Fantastic Flying Book Club, and Page Street Kids for this free copy.All quotes in this review are taken from the Advanced Reader Copy and may change in final publication.
Underage Sex (discussed, not graphic), Religion,
Sexual Activities, Non-Consenting Sex
None that I can see.
I personally am not one to pick up a book that directly deals with religion – I mean that’s almost why I didn’t read Autoboyography – but when I was picked for this blog tour, I knew I had to give it a chance. It was also a religion that I believe in, so I was curious to see the depiction of Christianity and Catholicism from a character that doesn’t practice it.
I will say that I think the further I got along in this book, the more angry I got at how some religious messages could be twisted to benefit others, and how it seems like girls will always be responsible for the actions of boys. It’s not fair of course, and I think Hartl did a great job at getting me angry for these girls.
CeCe (full name: Francine) is our main character. I would say she’s a typical teenager and nothing really jaw-dropping about her. She does end up stalking her ex-boyfriend by signing up to join a leadership conference for a religious camp though, so that may be something. I don’t know how I feel about her as an MC but she’s not completely terrible, so that works.
“It’s not like you lied about your religion to get a leadership position at a camp you have no interest in to impress a guy you have nothing in common with. Oh, wait.”
Paul speaking the TRUTH BOO
Paul is CeCe’s neighbor and best friend. His father – who not surprisingly left his mom for his church secretary *insert eye roll here* – does not practice his religion anymore thanks to that incident. However, he ends up spending his summer with CeCe at Camp Three SixTeen so that she’s not alone and can help her get through all of the religious aspects of the camp. I mean, someone’s going to have to help her get through this, right?
Ethan is the ex-boyfriend. I don’t like him. He reminds me of one of my exes who broke up with me the same damn way. And then of course someone told me that he had a girlfriend through his church, JUST LIKE ETHAN DOES. I don’t like boys like this.
Mandy is one of CeCe’s roommate and a truly nice Christian girl. Oh, and she’s the girl that Ethan has been dating. But, CeCe shouldn’t hold that against her, which she really shouldn’t because it’s not Mandy’s fault, but I guess a girl needs to figure it out for herself. A shame though, since Mandy is a great girl from the get go. She is immediately kind to CeCe and helps her get through camp. I love girls like Mandy.
Sarina and Astrid are the other roommates, and have known Mandy for years. They are all super nice to CeCe too, although I know that they are still trying to feel her out. Sarina is super humble about her accomplishments in the makeup YouTube industry, so what does that tell you about her? I like them. Astrid is a smart cookie, knows her Scriptures better than anyone, and has a good head on her shoulders.
“That’s not an apology,” Astrid said. Now it was my turn to gape. “You basically said CeCe wasn’t evolved enough in the Bible’s teachings to comprehend, which is not only offensive, but your lesson is wrong.”
yOU TELL EM ASTRID
CeCe is convinced that if she “finds God” by going to the same religious camp as ex-boyfriend Ethan, then maybe she can win him back. Thank goodness her best friend Paul ends up going with her because (1) he grew up in the faith and his father is a priest so he can help her lie her way through Christian Camp, and (2) because he can keep her grounded from doing something she’s going to regret. Although, not sure if that will work since they end up going there anyway despite his advice. CeCe and Paul arrive at camp to find out that Ethan actually has another girlfriend – that happens to be one of CeCe’s cabin mates and is such a sweetheart honestly – and CeCe ends up lying by saying that her and Paul are actually together.
Did Christian kids even make out? Obviously they did on some level. They could even have sex as much as they wanted, so long as they claimed to be born-again whenever it suited their needs.
CeCe
The first line irritated me because it’s like people making assumptions about religions – kind of like what happened in Autoboyography but not done the same. Then the snark after it because Ethan totally had sex with CeCe and then claims “I need to find God again and be born-again” to break up with her was complete trash and gives Christianity a bad name.
Just saying.
Drama ensues. But just enough that it’s not annoying and one that you can actually follow along. It was good.
Also, CeCe ends up learning from Paul what consent really means, since Paul is super pissed at Ethan for what happened when she lost her virginity. And I’m proud of Paul for understanding the concept of consent because not everyone does.
“… but consent should be an ongoing conversation. Did he check in with you? Did he make sure you were comfortable, that you were still enjoying things?”
Paul asking CeCe about Her Time with Ethan
My man Paul freaking gets it, ladies and gentlemen! This is what I’m talking about right here.
I think this was the first of CeCe’s redeeming lines in my eyes:
The least we can do is be proud of our own accomplishments. Lord knows the world won’t do it for us.
CeCe on Pride being a stupid Sin
Basically this was where CeCe finds out that Sarina is a freaking Makeup YouTube superstar (fifty thousand followers in six months. That’s amazing), but when she told Sarina that she should be proud of that, Sarina was like “Pride is a sin.” Which it is, don’t get me wrong. I remember the seven sins. But, CeCe has a point. It’s not being boastful or anything.
And there are more cases where CeCe does not agree with what the camp counselors are teaching the girls, because let’s face it, it’s antiquated and not fair towards women at all. Astrid does as well, and I was honestly so proud to see the girls of Cabin 8 stand up for what they knew was right and have a united front on this.
CeCe is too obsessed with Ethan and he didn’t even treat her right. And the way that she describes herself without him is just sad.
I didn’t know who I was without him. His friends all called me “Ethan’s girl,” and I wanted so badly to belong somewhere, instead of constantly trying and failing to find my place.
CeCe
Chica. Never define yourself by who you’re dating. It’s not worth it.
Dress like you want to be seduced, and you will attract the kind of guy who will only try to seduce you, who won’t value your heart or your mind.
Patricia…. the lame ass counselor
Messages like this seriously piss me off. I get this was maybe the point of the novel, but having to read stuff like this over and over again in a short amount of time really irked me.
Like really irked me.
“…in a handful of words, this counselor had made me feel more ashamed of my body than I had when Ethan told me why we had to break up. In her eyes, it wasn’t the sex that made me dirty; it was me. Like my very existence in a female form had to be covered up, hidden away. One of the several reasons I could add to the growing pile of why I’d never be a Christian.”
CeCe just had on a bikini, guys. That’s it.
And this is coming from Patricia, one of the FEMALE counselors. How demeaning do women have to be to high school girls and younger to guilt trip them into thinking that it’s their fault when guys have hormonal reactions? The hell is this?
It took me a while to get into this because I was already turned off by CeCe’s behavior in the beginning. I think she did end up growing a little bit as the book went on. I appreciated that she changed her mind on Mandy because in all honesty, girls should not be enemies over a piece of crap guy.
“… for Mandy, this girl I shouldn’t care one iota about. I’d come to steal her boyfriend, for crying out loud. But still. I felt a certain amount of loyalty toward her. The kind of kinship that came from really, truly understanding how someone else felt.”
Disclaimer: I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to Netgalley, Fantastic Flying Book Club, and Page Street Kids for this free copy.All quotes in this review are taken from the Advanced Reader Copy and may change in final publication.
Underage Sex (discussed, not graphic), Religion,
Sexual Activities, Non-Consenting Sex
None that I can see.
I personally am not one to pick up a book that directly deals with religion – I mean that’s almost why I didn’t read Autoboyography – but when I was picked for this blog tour, I knew I had to give it a chance. It was also a religion that I believe in, so I was curious to see the depiction of Christianity and Catholicism from a character that doesn’t practice it.
I will say that I think the further I got along in this book, the more angry I got at how some religious messages could be twisted to benefit others, and how it seems like girls will always be responsible for the actions of boys. It’s not fair of course, and I think Hartl did a great job at getting me angry for these girls.
CeCe (full name: Francine) is our main character. I would say she’s a typical teenager and nothing really jaw-dropping about her. She does end up stalking her ex-boyfriend by signing up to join a leadership conference for a religious camp though, so that may be something. I don’t know how I feel about her as an MC but she’s not completely terrible, so that works.
“It’s not like you lied about your religion to get a leadership position at a camp you have no interest in to impress a guy you have nothing in common with. Oh, wait.”
Paul speaking the TRUTH BOO
Paul is CeCe’s neighbor and best friend. His father – who not surprisingly left his mom for his church secretary *insert eye roll here* – does not practice his religion anymore thanks to that incident. However, he ends up spending his summer with CeCe at Camp Three SixTeen so that she’s not alone and can help her get through all of the religious aspects of the camp. I mean, someone’s going to have to help her get through this, right?
Ethan is the ex-boyfriend. I don’t like him. He reminds me of one of my exes who broke up with me the same damn way. And then of course someone told me that he had a girlfriend through his church, JUST LIKE ETHAN DOES. I don’t like boys like this.
Mandy is one of CeCe’s roommate and a truly nice Christian girl. Oh, and she’s the girl that Ethan has been dating. But, CeCe shouldn’t hold that against her, which she really shouldn’t because it’s not Mandy’s fault, but I guess a girl needs to figure it out for herself. A shame though, since Mandy is a great girl from the get go. She is immediately kind to CeCe and helps her get through camp. I love girls like Mandy.
Sarina and Astrid are the other roommates, and have known Mandy for years. They are all super nice to CeCe too, although I know that they are still trying to feel her out. Sarina is super humble about her accomplishments in the makeup YouTube industry, so what does that tell you about her? I like them. Astrid is a smart cookie, knows her Scriptures better than anyone, and has a good head on her shoulders.
“That’s not an apology,” Astrid said. Now it was my turn to gape. “You basically said CeCe wasn’t evolved enough in the Bible’s teachings to comprehend, which is not only offensive, but your lesson is wrong.”
yOU TELL EM ASTRID
CeCe is convinced that if she “finds God” by going to the same religious camp as ex-boyfriend Ethan, then maybe she can win him back. Thank goodness her best friend Paul ends up going with her because (1) he grew up in the faith and his father is a priest so he can help her lie her way through Christian Camp, and (2) because he can keep her grounded from doing something she’s going to regret. Although, not sure if that will work since they end up going there anyway despite his advice. CeCe and Paul arrive at camp to find out that Ethan actually has another girlfriend – that happens to be one of CeCe’s cabin mates and is such a sweetheart honestly – and CeCe ends up lying by saying that her and Paul are actually together.
Did Christian kids even make out? Obviously they did on some level. They could even have sex as much as they wanted, so long as they claimed to be born-again whenever it suited their needs.
CeCe
The first line irritated me because it’s like people making assumptions about religions – kind of like what happened in Autoboyography but not done the same. Then the snark after it because Ethan totally had sex with CeCe and then claims “I need to find God again and be born-again” to break up with her was complete trash and gives Christianity a bad name.
Just saying.
Drama ensues. But just enough that it’s not annoying and one that you can actually follow along. It was good.
Also, CeCe ends up learning from Paul what consent really means, since Paul is super pissed at Ethan for what happened when she lost her virginity. And I’m proud of Paul for understanding the concept of consent because not everyone does.
“… but consent should be an ongoing conversation. Did he check in with you? Did he make sure you were comfortable, that you were still enjoying things?”
Paul asking CeCe about Her Time with Ethan
My man Paul freaking gets it, ladies and gentlemen! This is what I’m talking about right here.
I think this was the first of CeCe’s redeeming lines in my eyes:
The least we can do is be proud of our own accomplishments. Lord knows the world won’t do it for us.
CeCe on Pride being a stupid Sin
Basically this was where CeCe finds out that Sarina is a freaking Makeup YouTube superstar (fifty thousand followers in six months. That’s amazing), but when she told Sarina that she should be proud of that, Sarina was like “Pride is a sin.” Which it is, don’t get me wrong. I remember the seven sins. But, CeCe has a point. It’s not being boastful or anything.
And there are more cases where CeCe does not agree with what the camp counselors are teaching the girls, because let’s face it, it’s antiquated and not fair towards women at all. Astrid does as well, and I was honestly so proud to see the girls of Cabin 8 stand up for what they knew was right and have a united front on this.
CeCe is too obsessed with Ethan and he didn’t even treat her right. And the way that she describes herself without him is just sad.
I didn’t know who I was without him. His friends all called me “Ethan’s girl,” and I wanted so badly to belong somewhere, instead of constantly trying and failing to find my place.
CeCe
Chica. Never define yourself by who you’re dating. It’s not worth it.
Dress like you want to be seduced, and you will attract the kind of guy who will only try to seduce you, who won’t value your heart or your mind.
Patricia…. the lame ass counselor
Messages like this seriously piss me off. I get this was maybe the point of the novel, but having to read stuff like this over and over again in a short amount of time really irked me.
Like really irked me.
“…in a handful of words, this counselor had made me feel more ashamed of my body than I had when Ethan told me why we had to break up. In her eyes, it wasn’t the sex that made me dirty; it was me. Like my very existence in a female form had to be covered up, hidden away. One of the several reasons I could add to the growing pile of why I’d never be a Christian.”
CeCe just had on a bikini, guys. That’s it.
And this is coming from Patricia, one of the FEMALE counselors. How demeaning do women have to be to high school girls and younger to guilt trip them into thinking that it’s their fault when guys have hormonal reactions? The hell is this?
It took me a while to get into this because I was already turned off by CeCe’s behavior in the beginning. I think she did end up growing a little bit as the book went on. I appreciated that she changed her mind on Mandy because in all honesty, girls should not be enemies over a piece of crap guy.
“… for Mandy, this girl I shouldn’t care one iota about. I’d come to steal her boyfriend, for crying out loud. But still. I felt a certain amount of loyalty toward her. The kind of kinship that came from really, truly understanding how someone else felt.”
July 15, 2019
This is such a wonderful story, I seriously devoured it in one sitting. It’s all about sex, and healthy consent, and that beautiful, tough, and breathless first love that may or may not last forever.
Part of me felt like I was reading a Judy Blume book, in the best possible way. Highly recommend!!!
Part of me felt like I was reading a Judy Blume book, in the best possible way. Highly recommend!!!
September 7, 2022
2.5 stars rounded to 3, because there are certain truths I've come to realize as I age, and one of them is that I rarely enjoy YA anymore.
This may not be surprising; I'm 25 and my reviews skew critical in almost any genre. But especially in these wild pandemic-economy-crumbling-war-brewing times, I'm finding myself reaching for books that make me feel like a kid again only to be disappointed because I know I'm not one.
But this book, in many ways, is what my younger self was looking for and never found. It takes place at an out-of-touch evangelical summer camp, but it does what few books of this kind do: shows characters who learn to recognize the way authority figures weaponize their faith without actually giving their faith up. That's huge! If you're a young person who practices any religion, you don't often get honest stories about faith that aren't, well, laughably bad or sexist and homophobic or both.
That being said, the execution kind of lost me. There are some funny lines, but most of the dialogue was stilted, like it was trying to check after-school-special boxes (have we talked about consent yet? How about acknowledging the protagonist's cishet privilege?). Nothing wrong with including these things, of course, but here it felt very unnatural. Most of the characters are pretty one-note as well; I like the female friendship aspect, but I'd like it more if those characters had a little bit more depth. And I was hoping for more with the Christianity angle; the ending kind of forgets about it, unfortunately.
But, like I said, I'm so decrepit that I was actually alive when Harry Potter came out, so what do I know.
This may not be surprising; I'm 25 and my reviews skew critical in almost any genre. But especially in these wild pandemic-economy-crumbling-war-brewing times, I'm finding myself reaching for books that make me feel like a kid again only to be disappointed because I know I'm not one.
But this book, in many ways, is what my younger self was looking for and never found. It takes place at an out-of-touch evangelical summer camp, but it does what few books of this kind do: shows characters who learn to recognize the way authority figures weaponize their faith without actually giving their faith up. That's huge! If you're a young person who practices any religion, you don't often get honest stories about faith that aren't, well, laughably bad or sexist and homophobic or both.
That being said, the execution kind of lost me. There are some funny lines, but most of the dialogue was stilted, like it was trying to check after-school-special boxes (have we talked about consent yet? How about acknowledging the protagonist's cishet privilege?). Nothing wrong with including these things, of course, but here it felt very unnatural. Most of the characters are pretty one-note as well; I like the female friendship aspect, but I'd like it more if those characters had a little bit more depth. And I was hoping for more with the Christianity angle; the ending kind of forgets about it, unfortunately.
But, like I said, I'm so decrepit that I was actually alive when Harry Potter came out, so what do I know.
September 13, 2019
I am in love with this book. It is so funny at times, I had to catch my breath from LMAO. CeCe is all of us who were subjected to awkward, judgy religion-based events/camps that tied our eternal salvation to our vaginas. While I know the adult characters in this book are not an across-the-board representation of Christianity, it is definitely similar to what I encountered as a teen, so it spoke to me.
I love what this book says about feminism, consent, and mastering the art of self-awareness. I love the-friends-to-lovers trope that is so well done here. I love CeCe as the complex, hilarious, super screwed up girl she is, and Paul as the broody, funny, worthy-guy best friend.
All my love to the girls of Cabin 8: seriously, can we get a sequel for these characters alone?!?! The female friendships were beautiful and imperfect, just like in real life.
This book explores what so many of us have faced as girls/women: the pressures of having sex, the slut shaming that comes with it no matter the situation, and our sisters and friends who’ve been through these battles alongside us.
If you are or know a teenaged girl, please hand her this book. I needed it when I was younger.
I love what this book says about feminism, consent, and mastering the art of self-awareness. I love the-friends-to-lovers trope that is so well done here. I love CeCe as the complex, hilarious, super screwed up girl she is, and Paul as the broody, funny, worthy-guy best friend.
All my love to the girls of Cabin 8: seriously, can we get a sequel for these characters alone?!?! The female friendships were beautiful and imperfect, just like in real life.
This book explores what so many of us have faced as girls/women: the pressures of having sex, the slut shaming that comes with it no matter the situation, and our sisters and friends who’ve been through these battles alongside us.
If you are or know a teenaged girl, please hand her this book. I needed it when I was younger.
March 29, 2020
Oh what a mess. What. A. Mess. Totally not what I was expecting, but it's definitely the way our world thinks these days so that must be why it got so many good ratings. I was so hoping that CeCe would have a change of heart, that Christianity would be portrayed in a better light, that language would be appropriate, that this is one of those books I could keep for my daughter to read one day in terms of how important consent is and the long-term consequences of saying yes before marriage. Holy moly, no. What floored me the most was when CeCe stated (more than once) that if she would have known she was so in love with Paul earlier they could have started things physically a lot earlier. Um, how early?! She was only 17! I just want to write an epilogue to it....not to damage the actual love story, but to educate that things don't always work out the way you think they will at 17, or 19, or even 22....perhaps teens would listen to this if written the right way. And this author has daughters...it's just sad to me. This will be going in a Goodwill bag now....I don't even want this in our house any longer.
July 18, 2018
This is the book you didn't know you needed and won't be able to forget.
There's so much I loved, it's difficult to know where to start. It's the perfect blend of smart and swoony, hilarious and heartwarming.
Sonia writes characters with such depth--and even side characters feel developed and real. CeCe is messy and honest, and someone you immediately love and cheer for. Her relationship with Paul--who is amazing--is filled with so many layers of feelings, each of them fleshed-out and relatable.
But beyond the wickedly-smart humor and endlessly entertaining plot, is a nuanced and vitally important and unflinching discussion of consent. Sonia tackles the subject with grace and heart, while never losing the message or preaching. The result is a book that teaches without condescending, and is gloriously feminist, sex-positive, and empowering.
This book is an absolute must-read. Pre-order the second you're able.
There's so much I loved, it's difficult to know where to start. It's the perfect blend of smart and swoony, hilarious and heartwarming.
Sonia writes characters with such depth--and even side characters feel developed and real. CeCe is messy and honest, and someone you immediately love and cheer for. Her relationship with Paul--who is amazing--is filled with so many layers of feelings, each of them fleshed-out and relatable.
But beyond the wickedly-smart humor and endlessly entertaining plot, is a nuanced and vitally important and unflinching discussion of consent. Sonia tackles the subject with grace and heart, while never losing the message or preaching. The result is a book that teaches without condescending, and is gloriously feminist, sex-positive, and empowering.
This book is an absolute must-read. Pre-order the second you're able.
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