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Inebriated
The summer is their playground. Cait and her best friends Steph and Allie take on San Francisco's party scene with fake IDs and short dresses.
When Cait meets Adrien Cross, the charismatic lead singer of her favorite indie band, she's introduced to a hedonistic world of liquor and lust that she never wants to leave.
But then that world spirals out of control and the harsh realities of reckless living take a toll on Cait and the ones she loves.
What will be left when the makeup masks wash off, the bottles are empty, and Cait begins to lose her grip on everything?
Katey Taylor's heart-wrenching debut novel will have you strapped into the intense rollercoaster ride of Cait's life and one chaotic summer that will change it all.
WARNING: this book does include triggers. CW: underage alcohol and substance abuse, sexual assault
When Cait meets Adrien Cross, the charismatic lead singer of her favorite indie band, she's introduced to a hedonistic world of liquor and lust that she never wants to leave.
But then that world spirals out of control and the harsh realities of reckless living take a toll on Cait and the ones she loves.
What will be left when the makeup masks wash off, the bottles are empty, and Cait begins to lose her grip on everything?
Katey Taylor's heart-wrenching debut novel will have you strapped into the intense rollercoaster ride of Cait's life and one chaotic summer that will change it all.
WARNING: this book does include triggers. CW: underage alcohol and substance abuse, sexual assault
229 pages, Paperback
Published February 26, 2019
31 people are currently reading
612 people want to read
About the author
Katey Taylor
3 books81 followersKatey Taylor is a San Francisco Bay Area-based author and published poet, with work featured in online magazines such as DarkWinter Lit, SWAAY, and Fauxmoir. She’s recognized for her ability to address complex topics with sensitivity and depth. To find out more about her previous and upcoming novels, visit www.kateytaylor.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
May 14, 2019
Wow! What an intense and gripping story! Inebriated is a heartbreaking depiction of teenage life and how they process and deal with some difficult situations. Katey Taylor really delivers with this debut young adult novel. It is very well written and will open your eyes to the harsh reality of the world today and all that teens are subjected to.
Summer break has just begun in the Bay Area suburb of Calaveras. For seventeen year old Caitlyn Turner and her two best friends, this means hitting up the party scenes. One night while at a club, Caitlyn meets Adrien Cross, the lead singer of her favorite band. The sparks begin to fly and he quickly introduces her to a whole new world. One that is filled to the brim with alcohol, sex and drugs. What ensues is a whirlwind of events that neither will soon forget.
This is a wonderfully written, emotional story with some real gut-wrenching moments. The characters were well portrayed and I was fully invested in each of their lives. Adrien and Caitlyn are both characters that are haunted by their pasts, but the way they attack life is so different. It's heart-wrenching and eye-opening going on this journey with them. Their story is one I'll remember for some time to come and one that has definitely made a lasting impression.
Summer break has just begun in the Bay Area suburb of Calaveras. For seventeen year old Caitlyn Turner and her two best friends, this means hitting up the party scenes. One night while at a club, Caitlyn meets Adrien Cross, the lead singer of her favorite band. The sparks begin to fly and he quickly introduces her to a whole new world. One that is filled to the brim with alcohol, sex and drugs. What ensues is a whirlwind of events that neither will soon forget.
This is a wonderfully written, emotional story with some real gut-wrenching moments. The characters were well portrayed and I was fully invested in each of their lives. Adrien and Caitlyn are both characters that are haunted by their pasts, but the way they attack life is so different. It's heart-wrenching and eye-opening going on this journey with them. Their story is one I'll remember for some time to come and one that has definitely made a lasting impression.
January 25, 2020
MY RATING⇢ 2¼ ✰STARS✰
BOOK TAGS⇢ GRIT-YA ⁝ CONTEMPORARY (MOSTLY) REALISTIC FICTION ⁝ TEEN SEX AND DRINKING
MY THOUGHTS⇣
I thought this was going to be different than it was. I thought it would focus on addiction and then working to break the addiction. But it wasn't, not really. It was really just a booze-fest for teens, heavily laden with bad decisions, and overly clueless parents. If nothing else, you could use this book to teach your teen what not to do. I guess someone young might like this sort of train-wreck of a story, but it wasn't really a good fit for me.
BOOK DETAILS⇣
BOOK COVER⇢ AMAZING...LOVE THE MINIMALIST DESIGN GOING HERE. SADLY, IT'S THE BEST THING ABOUT THIS BOOK.
SETTING⇢ SAN FRANCISCO, CA
SOURCE⇢ I OWN KINDLE EBOOK
eBOOK LENGTH⇢ 231 PAGES
BREAKDOWN⇣
Plot⇢ 2.8/5
Characters⇢ 3/5
The Feels⇢ 2/5
Pacing⇢ 3/5
Addictiveness⇢ 3.5/5
Theme or Tone⇢ 2/5
Flow (Writing Style)⇢ 2.5/5
Backdrop (World Building)⇢ 3/5
Originality⇢ 3/5
Ending⇢ 1/5
BOOK TAGS⇢ GRIT-YA ⁝ CONTEMPORARY (MOSTLY) REALISTIC FICTION ⁝ TEEN SEX AND DRINKING
MY THOUGHTS⇣
I thought this was going to be different than it was. I thought it would focus on addiction and then working to break the addiction. But it wasn't, not really. It was really just a booze-fest for teens, heavily laden with bad decisions, and overly clueless parents. If nothing else, you could use this book to teach your teen what not to do. I guess someone young might like this sort of train-wreck of a story, but it wasn't really a good fit for me.
BOOK DETAILS⇣
BOOK COVER⇢ AMAZING...LOVE THE MINIMALIST DESIGN GOING HERE. SADLY, IT'S THE BEST THING ABOUT THIS BOOK.
SETTING⇢ SAN FRANCISCO, CA
SOURCE⇢ I OWN KINDLE EBOOK
eBOOK LENGTH⇢ 231 PAGES
BREAKDOWN⇣
Plot⇢ 2.8/5
Characters⇢ 3/5
The Feels⇢ 2/5
Pacing⇢ 3/5
Addictiveness⇢ 3.5/5
Theme or Tone⇢ 2/5
Flow (Writing Style)⇢ 2.5/5
Backdrop (World Building)⇢ 3/5
Originality⇢ 3/5
Ending⇢ 1/5
April 4, 2020
Katey Taylors' debut Inebriated had me intrigued from the moment I read the blurb. This gritty sounding YA set in San Francisco/Bay area ended up nearly being a one sitting read. The situation is one that transcends time. This could have been set in any years since the the 60's with raucous teenager girls enjoying a summer break. But before the end of the summer everything for Cait will have changed.
Life in Bay area suburb of Calaveras is pretty typical; teenagers sneaking out at night, lying to their parents and partying to extremes. The story opens with Cait waking from a blackout, literally on the streets of San Francisco. The tone is set and you know it's going to be a rocky ride. My heart ached for Cait as we witness her family descending into dissolution and she struggles to fit in and find love. Her encounter with local musician Adrien Cross changes the trajectory of her life immeasurably.
I enjoyed this book a lot and I think that if the author set out to show the reality of teen life where bad influences and poor choices have monumental and far reaching impacts. Cait experiences a transformation as she tries to deal with her parents, her friends and makes a decision that I could only see as wise - a decision that will further change the trajectory of her life. Overall I enjoyed moments where she shows keen awareness of her parents as individuals and how they try to work on their marriage for the sake of their family.
While I liked this story I did struggle with some of the writing. At times the dialogue felt very choppy or stilted, specifically the inconsistent use of contractions, and this affected the readability. Near the end Cait experiences an epiphany of sorts and while I appreciate the much needed closure on the situation, her actions and the language she uses felt unnatural for the moment, time, and her circumstance. I experienced a bit of whiplash from it but maybe that was the point. Cait is getting there but she's still not the most predicable character. After all, she is a teenager.
All the same, Cait embraces a decision that only points to a much needed and positive change and Taylor infuses the story with a poetic ending that made me really happy. 4 Stars!
*I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Life in Bay area suburb of Calaveras is pretty typical; teenagers sneaking out at night, lying to their parents and partying to extremes. The story opens with Cait waking from a blackout, literally on the streets of San Francisco. The tone is set and you know it's going to be a rocky ride. My heart ached for Cait as we witness her family descending into dissolution and she struggles to fit in and find love. Her encounter with local musician Adrien Cross changes the trajectory of her life immeasurably.
I enjoyed this book a lot and I think that if the author set out to show the reality of teen life where bad influences and poor choices have monumental and far reaching impacts. Cait experiences a transformation as she tries to deal with her parents, her friends and makes a decision that I could only see as wise - a decision that will further change the trajectory of her life. Overall I enjoyed moments where she shows keen awareness of her parents as individuals and how they try to work on their marriage for the sake of their family.
While I liked this story I did struggle with some of the writing. At times the dialogue felt very choppy or stilted, specifically the inconsistent use of contractions, and this affected the readability. Near the end Cait experiences an epiphany of sorts and while I appreciate the much needed closure on the situation, her actions and the language she uses felt unnatural for the moment, time, and her circumstance. I experienced a bit of whiplash from it but maybe that was the point. Cait is getting there but she's still not the most predicable character. After all, she is a teenager.
All the same, Cait embraces a decision that only points to a much needed and positive change and Taylor infuses the story with a poetic ending that made me really happy. 4 Stars!
*I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
December 10, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book in return for an honest review
Cait, Steph, and Allie are on the cusp of adulthood. Their enjoyment revolves around fake i.d.'s and binge drinking.
Any occasion, is an occasion for them to drink. From wanting to be drunk before going to the nightclub, to consuming alcohol to get lost from daily life, these girls are playing with fire.
Cait has found herself in some precarious positions. A close call with rape ( the boy now dating her friend Allie), blackouts galore, finding herself waking up the next morning on a door stoop from passing out the night before. Both of her parents are completely oblivious, going through their own issues.
Then, Steph gets VIP passes to see Adrian Cross. Cait falls head over heals. Adrian seems to feel the same way. She goes home with Adrian, Steph covering for her. Adrian takes her virginity. She is so drunk, she really has no clue what is going on around her. She wakes up to an empty apartment with money to get a cab home. Come to find out Adrian, is 24 years old and a heroin addict trying to stay clean. Staying sober, not so much. Let the relationship commence after a 3-4 week brush off. A relationship filled with lots of alcohol and melodrama from both sides. And excessive alcohol consumption.
Meanwhile, Allie and Steph are introduced to Cocaine by Keith (Allie"s boyfriend). Consequences are dire for both. Cait takes a stand for the first time, not bending to peer pressure, refusing to use Cocaine. This time she
is taking care of Steph.
This book covers the topics of sex, unprotected sex, drugs and alcohol, self-destructiveness, and family dynamics - divorce, lying and deceitfulness. I though it was sad. Sex was portrayed as something to do, and I was a bit uncomfortable with the sex scenes and sexual innuendo portrayed. Most times the participants were under the influence.
There is so much more that could have been done with this book. I was quite disappointed to be honest. The topics were taken too lightly. What I will say is each individual and each individual relationship is what kept me reading. At least, by the books end, some healthy decisions were made.
Cait, Steph, and Allie are on the cusp of adulthood. Their enjoyment revolves around fake i.d.'s and binge drinking.
Any occasion, is an occasion for them to drink. From wanting to be drunk before going to the nightclub, to consuming alcohol to get lost from daily life, these girls are playing with fire.
Cait has found herself in some precarious positions. A close call with rape ( the boy now dating her friend Allie), blackouts galore, finding herself waking up the next morning on a door stoop from passing out the night before. Both of her parents are completely oblivious, going through their own issues.
Then, Steph gets VIP passes to see Adrian Cross. Cait falls head over heals. Adrian seems to feel the same way. She goes home with Adrian, Steph covering for her. Adrian takes her virginity. She is so drunk, she really has no clue what is going on around her. She wakes up to an empty apartment with money to get a cab home. Come to find out Adrian, is 24 years old and a heroin addict trying to stay clean. Staying sober, not so much. Let the relationship commence after a 3-4 week brush off. A relationship filled with lots of alcohol and melodrama from both sides. And excessive alcohol consumption.
Meanwhile, Allie and Steph are introduced to Cocaine by Keith (Allie"s boyfriend). Consequences are dire for both. Cait takes a stand for the first time, not bending to peer pressure, refusing to use Cocaine. This time she
is taking care of Steph.
This book covers the topics of sex, unprotected sex, drugs and alcohol, self-destructiveness, and family dynamics - divorce, lying and deceitfulness. I though it was sad. Sex was portrayed as something to do, and I was a bit uncomfortable with the sex scenes and sexual innuendo portrayed. Most times the participants were under the influence.
There is so much more that could have been done with this book. I was quite disappointed to be honest. The topics were taken too lightly. What I will say is each individual and each individual relationship is what kept me reading. At least, by the books end, some healthy decisions were made.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 3, 2021
Cait is seventeen and drunk on life. Like, literally. Then comes in Adrien Cross and life seems out of control.
First, I will never understand how parents can be this unaware. Honestly. The lies, I can. It's not like I haven't lied to my parents to go meet a guy, but when you are 17 and beer bottles go missing and you are drunk out of your mind and you are barely at home and your parents still can't catch you - now that is something unbelievable. Or maybe it's just me, idk.
Fourth, I didn't feel genuine connection between any of the characters. I just couldn't see the relationship in a genuine form because apart from getting drunk and partying hardcore, we don't really see any other scene with the kids. It would've been nice to see someone more, you know, see a connection of some sort.
I think the storyline was good and could've been a lot better, and send out a clearer moral and lesson. But the writing and pace was kind of over the place and there really wasn't much of a story apart from the romance for almost 70% of the book. I was waiting for something bad to happen, something to 'spiral out of control' as the blurb had promised but nope. Nada. It was only in the last 85-90% of the book that something did happen, which, to be really honest, I was kind of expecting (and hoping).
Nevertheless, I can see why this book was liked by many and why it could please a younger reader base. But it just wasn't for me. The story was okay but the writing was very bland and characters were totally dull that I couldn't care about any of them.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for an early galley. All views expressed are fully mine.
First, I will never understand how parents can be this unaware. Honestly. The lies, I can. It's not like I haven't lied to my parents to go meet a guy, but when you are 17 and beer bottles go missing and you are drunk out of your mind and you are barely at home and your parents still can't catch you - now that is something unbelievable. Or maybe it's just me, idk.
Fourth, I didn't feel genuine connection between any of the characters. I just couldn't see the relationship in a genuine form because apart from getting drunk and partying hardcore, we don't really see any other scene with the kids. It would've been nice to see someone more, you know, see a connection of some sort.
I think the storyline was good and could've been a lot better, and send out a clearer moral and lesson. But the writing and pace was kind of over the place and there really wasn't much of a story apart from the romance for almost 70% of the book. I was waiting for something bad to happen, something to 'spiral out of control' as the blurb had promised but nope. Nada. It was only in the last 85-90% of the book that something did happen, which, to be really honest, I was kind of expecting (and hoping).
Nevertheless, I can see why this book was liked by many and why it could please a younger reader base. But it just wasn't for me. The story was okay but the writing was very bland and characters were totally dull that I couldn't care about any of them.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for an early galley. All views expressed are fully mine.
February 21, 2020
Thank you Xpressotours for a complimentary copy. I voluntarily reviewed this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Inebriated
By:Katey Taylor
*REVIEW* ☆☆.5
I wanted to like Inebriated, but it was too sophomoric for my taste. I thought the teen drinking and partying was over the top, and the story should have focused more on some rehab options. The adults were the dumbest people, and I hate clueless characters. The overall picture was so contrived that it felt kind of silly and ridiculous. It's okay if you like this type of story, but I don't. I would not read this book again.
Inebriated
By:Katey Taylor
*REVIEW* ☆☆.5
I wanted to like Inebriated, but it was too sophomoric for my taste. I thought the teen drinking and partying was over the top, and the story should have focused more on some rehab options. The adults were the dumbest people, and I hate clueless characters. The overall picture was so contrived that it felt kind of silly and ridiculous. It's okay if you like this type of story, but I don't. I would not read this book again.
May 1, 2019
What a powerful and gripping story! This was a wonderful debut novel, well done Katey!
I was hooked from the very first chapter. Right away you get a gut feeling that with all the partying and drinking Cait and her friends do, that someone is going to get hurt at some point.
Each character brought something different to this story and I enjoyed learning more about each of them, especially Cait and Adrien. As much as they want to be good together, they unfortunately just bring out the bad tendencies in each other. I was desperately rooting for them, but of course I realized that it was a toxic relationship at best, and sometimes with those, there is no light at the end of the tunnel.
Inebriated is a great young adult novel that sheds light on the realities of partying and drinking and all of the unfortunate repercussions that can come with it.
I really enjoyed reading this book and I am looking forward to future books by Katey!!
I was hooked from the very first chapter. Right away you get a gut feeling that with all the partying and drinking Cait and her friends do, that someone is going to get hurt at some point.
Each character brought something different to this story and I enjoyed learning more about each of them, especially Cait and Adrien. As much as they want to be good together, they unfortunately just bring out the bad tendencies in each other. I was desperately rooting for them, but of course I realized that it was a toxic relationship at best, and sometimes with those, there is no light at the end of the tunnel.
Inebriated is a great young adult novel that sheds light on the realities of partying and drinking and all of the unfortunate repercussions that can come with it.
I really enjoyed reading this book and I am looking forward to future books by Katey!!
April 7, 2020
This was a nice change of pace from the mystery/thrillers I usually read. If I read YA, I want it to be gritty, and this is certainly gritty. I swept through this book and really didn't want to put it down. I'm very much looking forward to picking up the next book in the series!!
Thank you Netgalley for my copy of this book. My review is voluntary.
Thank you Netgalley for my copy of this book. My review is voluntary.
September 2, 2020
4.5⭐️
I finished this book so fast. I was hooked. This book was so amazing and meaningful. It is a perfectly written story that is very common in real life too. She really brought these characters to life.
I cannot wait to read the sequel and see the main character grow even more.
Definitely recommend.
I finished this book so fast. I was hooked. This book was so amazing and meaningful. It is a perfectly written story that is very common in real life too. She really brought these characters to life.
I cannot wait to read the sequel and see the main character grow even more.
Definitely recommend.
September 23, 2022
I really disliked this book. Cait was irresponsible so was her friends, and what good friends? in one time they were loving each other and the next they were yelling and hating on each other.. And don`t let me get started on Adrien, who sleeps with a barely 17 year old girl... And they do drugs and get drunk all the time... the relationship were toxic as f.
I got this eARC from Netgalley
I got this eARC from Netgalley
February 15, 2020
**Review copy received from Xpresso Reads Book Tours in exchange for an honest review**
This was a good quick read for my morning commute! It was about some heavy material, but it was told from the perspective of someone who wasn't quite understanding the gravity of everything surrounding her. It was a refreshing perspective. Cait, the main character, is a rising high school senior who is witnessing the affects of addiction, first in the rockstar she meets at a show, and then in her own friend group. Things like waking up in the street after blacking out, sexual assault, drug use, and statutory rape don't seem to faze her, but with the kind of bender her summer becomes, there's no way something won't come crashing down.
It was different to read about these topics without it being too heavy. As the reader, you get to be angry and upset and scared for her, while all the while she is just continuing to enjoy it. There was some more depth that I wish the story had explored, though. Cait's childhood and friend group definitely explains her reckless behavior, but I didn't get a sense of the kind of desperation and emotional numbness that comes with such vices. Someone who is getting black out drunk regularly isn't thinking "this will be fun!" They're thinking how nothing else matters, so why not?
One more thing was both a hit and a miss for me:
It looks like theres' a sequel in the works, and I'm interested to see how much of the emotional fallout from this book carries over.
This was a good quick read for my morning commute! It was about some heavy material, but it was told from the perspective of someone who wasn't quite understanding the gravity of everything surrounding her. It was a refreshing perspective. Cait, the main character, is a rising high school senior who is witnessing the affects of addiction, first in the rockstar she meets at a show, and then in her own friend group. Things like waking up in the street after blacking out, sexual assault, drug use, and statutory rape don't seem to faze her, but with the kind of bender her summer becomes, there's no way something won't come crashing down.
It was different to read about these topics without it being too heavy. As the reader, you get to be angry and upset and scared for her, while all the while she is just continuing to enjoy it. There was some more depth that I wish the story had explored, though. Cait's childhood and friend group definitely explains her reckless behavior, but I didn't get a sense of the kind of desperation and emotional numbness that comes with such vices. Someone who is getting black out drunk regularly isn't thinking "this will be fun!" They're thinking how nothing else matters, so why not?
One more thing was both a hit and a miss for me:
It looks like theres' a sequel in the works, and I'm interested to see how much of the emotional fallout from this book carries over.
December 24, 2022
An intense read, a great depiction of a toxic relationship and the hell of addiction.
January 10, 2023
“Read this if you’re in your matty Healy era*!”
*want to remember when matty Healy was on drugs and fucking miserable, I guess????
Hated it and won’t be reading the sequel. Badly written and also the narrator is super high and mighty for being a 17 year old who binge drinks??? Ass. 👎👎👎
*want to remember when matty Healy was on drugs and fucking miserable, I guess????
Hated it and won’t be reading the sequel. Badly written and also the narrator is super high and mighty for being a 17 year old who binge drinks??? Ass. 👎👎👎
September 6, 2020
Note: I got a copy of this book from the author in exchange for a review so my opinion is 100% real and not affected by that.
This book broke me. It literally shattered me. I read this in one sitting and it was such a fun but really heartbreaking experience. The author did an amazing job, she wrote a painful story but she described a sad reality in a perfect way. I believe that everyone should read this because despite the fact that this is a heavy read, it also is fast paced and really interesting. These characters are so lovely and perfect! The friendships break my heart! Everything about this is just so perfect! Highly recommend it to everyone!
Tw: Sexual assault, death and substance abuse!
This book broke me. It literally shattered me. I read this in one sitting and it was such a fun but really heartbreaking experience. The author did an amazing job, she wrote a painful story but she described a sad reality in a perfect way. I believe that everyone should read this because despite the fact that this is a heavy read, it also is fast paced and really interesting. These characters are so lovely and perfect! The friendships break my heart! Everything about this is just so perfect! Highly recommend it to everyone!
Tw: Sexual assault, death and substance abuse!
March 30, 2019
My rating: 3.5
Reviewed on behalf of 3 Degrees of Fiction Book Blog
Summer break has started and for Caitlyn Turner that means hanging with her best friends and hitting up the party scenes. One night in particular is extra special when they go to a club called Swank to see Adrien Cross and his band play live. One thing leads to another with Cait meeting Adrien, hanging with his bandmates, and then going home with him to spend the night, only to be tossed aside the next morning. You would think that would have a negative effect on your view of said guy, but Cait can't seem to stop thinking of Adrien and only wanting him more. Apparently he feels the same and what follows after is a whirlwind of events that neither character will ever forget.
The blurb for Inebriated instantly pulled me in. I have read some amazing stories that deal with some serious issues and just from the title alone I knew this would be that kind of story. Inebriated is my first Katey Taylor book and I like going into something with an open mind, not knowing what to expect. I was a bit surprised though how tame the story was. Yes there is drinking and other stuff but really those things were mostly glossed over. There is also some romance but honestly I wasn't feeling it at all. Cait's character seemed way too materialistic for my liking and Adrien was portrayed as the typical singer with the sex, love, and rock and roll mentality. The storyline does hit a bit heavy after a while and I was sad to see how everything did end up. I can say I breezed through Inebriated pretty quickly and I like the fact Katey Taylor kept the storyline at a good pace. All in all a good read for me and I like having another new author to be on the lookout for.
Reviewed on behalf of 3 Degrees of Fiction Book Blog
Summer break has started and for Caitlyn Turner that means hanging with her best friends and hitting up the party scenes. One night in particular is extra special when they go to a club called Swank to see Adrien Cross and his band play live. One thing leads to another with Cait meeting Adrien, hanging with his bandmates, and then going home with him to spend the night, only to be tossed aside the next morning. You would think that would have a negative effect on your view of said guy, but Cait can't seem to stop thinking of Adrien and only wanting him more. Apparently he feels the same and what follows after is a whirlwind of events that neither character will ever forget.
The blurb for Inebriated instantly pulled me in. I have read some amazing stories that deal with some serious issues and just from the title alone I knew this would be that kind of story. Inebriated is my first Katey Taylor book and I like going into something with an open mind, not knowing what to expect. I was a bit surprised though how tame the story was. Yes there is drinking and other stuff but really those things were mostly glossed over. There is also some romance but honestly I wasn't feeling it at all. Cait's character seemed way too materialistic for my liking and Adrien was portrayed as the typical singer with the sex, love, and rock and roll mentality. The storyline does hit a bit heavy after a while and I was sad to see how everything did end up. I can say I breezed through Inebriated pretty quickly and I like the fact Katey Taylor kept the storyline at a good pace. All in all a good read for me and I like having another new author to be on the lookout for.
March 22, 2020
I really liked the way Katey Taylor wrote about the substance abuse and celebrity crush topics. The story really did take some dramatic if not shocking turns and I was hooked the entire book. To my surprise, the book was under 200 pages long, which was a pity, because I enjoyed it a lot and I would've loved some more time with Cait! But then... I discovered there's a next book and all is well, haha!
The story is about three girls: Cait, Steph and Allie. They've got fake ID's to get them through junior year with some booze and fun. I really like the way the book is set up, because the start is like this big amnesia moment where Cait doesn't know how she got where she was at, but neither does the reader. With her you live through this book and I felt what she was feeling, even though she's not going through things I've ever experienced. That means for me "job well done" according to the main character and her development. I did feel like Cait could've learned more from her previous encounters with any substance and with her Indie music idol, but I did really like her as a character.
I thought Cait's parents where a bit odd, especially her mother. She's like: 'I've been seventeen, I know what's going on at parties', and yet she believes the first lie that she's been told. She's a bit too naive in my opinion, and therefore the fight between her and Cait later on isn't something I particularly cared for... In some ways it seems like the characters were only the age they were, so the author could get a bit of drama and a "pushing boundaries" kind of story, but it didn't always add up much to the quality of the story.
Besides all that, I really enjoyed the book! I've read Inebriated in one sitting and now I want more!!
The story is about three girls: Cait, Steph and Allie. They've got fake ID's to get them through junior year with some booze and fun. I really like the way the book is set up, because the start is like this big amnesia moment where Cait doesn't know how she got where she was at, but neither does the reader. With her you live through this book and I felt what she was feeling, even though she's not going through things I've ever experienced. That means for me "job well done" according to the main character and her development. I did feel like Cait could've learned more from her previous encounters with any substance and with her Indie music idol, but I did really like her as a character.
I thought Cait's parents where a bit odd, especially her mother. She's like: 'I've been seventeen, I know what's going on at parties', and yet she believes the first lie that she's been told. She's a bit too naive in my opinion, and therefore the fight between her and Cait later on isn't something I particularly cared for... In some ways it seems like the characters were only the age they were, so the author could get a bit of drama and a "pushing boundaries" kind of story, but it didn't always add up much to the quality of the story.
Besides all that, I really enjoyed the book! I've read Inebriated in one sitting and now I want more!!
March 24, 2020
This is the story about Cait, a 17 year old with limited supervision. She is a girl who likes to party, and party hard. This story covers the summer between junior and senior years, focusing on her friendships with Steph and Allie along with a blossoming relationship. As with most teen girls, the friendships aren't problem free, nor is the relationship.
Some YA books serve an adult audience well, this book seems to solidly target young adults. I am giving it 4 stars knowing that distinction, as I think it would appeal to teens. As a book for an adult, I would give it 3 stars.
There's a lot of sensitive content in here such as alcohol and drug abuse, losing one's virginity and witnessing the demolition of your parents' marriage. The book seems to gloss over most of these topics and there is a missed opportunity to really get into the head of Cait and the impacts these choices and events have on her. All of the content seems to be glossed over until the end.
The last quarter of the book really started to deliver the emotional punch I was looking for. Overall, I think many teens would enjoy it, but it lacks adult appeal for most of the book.
Thank you Amazon, Katey Taylor and Netgalley for this book in exchange for my honest review.
Some YA books serve an adult audience well, this book seems to solidly target young adults. I am giving it 4 stars knowing that distinction, as I think it would appeal to teens. As a book for an adult, I would give it 3 stars.
There's a lot of sensitive content in here such as alcohol and drug abuse, losing one's virginity and witnessing the demolition of your parents' marriage. The book seems to gloss over most of these topics and there is a missed opportunity to really get into the head of Cait and the impacts these choices and events have on her. All of the content seems to be glossed over until the end.
The last quarter of the book really started to deliver the emotional punch I was looking for. Overall, I think many teens would enjoy it, but it lacks adult appeal for most of the book.
Thank you Amazon, Katey Taylor and Netgalley for this book in exchange for my honest review.
October 23, 2020
Caitlyn is a 17 year old girl who comes from a troubled household. Her parents are not on good terms as they fight quite often. She is usually called as Cait and Steph and Allie are her best friends. During summer break these teenagers go partying with fake IDs and this wild ride takes so many turns. On a fateful day Cait meets Adrian Cross, the singer and their story begins. Intoxication is a major part of the story. It's like a drunk ride.The name of this novel is apt . I didn't feel much connected to the characters in the first half of the story but then later on the holidays ending drastically in wild manner and her turning into a different person. The ending was emotional.
The addiction is real and the author Katey talks about how we lose ourselves in it. Our souls, our minds, our every moment is controlled by the addiction..and there is a necessity to get treated.
The addiction is real and the author Katey talks about how we lose ourselves in it. Our souls, our minds, our every moment is controlled by the addiction..and there is a necessity to get treated.
May 11, 2019
I received this book from YABC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
tw: attempted sexual assault, rape, underage drinking, drug use, addiction, death.
What I Liked
This book was fantastic. It depicted down to a tee what it is like to be a high schooler on summer vacation. Anybody could read this book and see themselves in Cait and her friends. I know I did. Even though this is most likely a work of fiction, it had elements of truth behind it and that is this books biggest strength.
Cait, who was the main character, was written quite well. It’s not always easy to write teenagers but Katey Taylor did an excellent job of capturing the fickleness of teenagers. I truly saw my teenage self in Cait. The events she experienced during the course of the book was something teenagers face everyday. I enjoyed her voice and found myself rooting for Cait all the way.
What Left Me Wanting More
It was difficult to come up with something that left me wanting more because this book was terrific but I did manage to come up with at least one. One thing, and this is more of a personal choice, is the way the text messaging/instant messaging was formatted in the book. It was the same text style as the rest of the book so it made it a little tricky to discern when there was a text and when there was the rest of the story. This might not bother some as it did help with the flow of the book.
Final Verdict
Inebriated is a one of kind book that everybody should read. It has well written teenagers, a great, albeit heartbreaking plot and a main character that you will absolutely fall in love with.
tw: attempted sexual assault, rape, underage drinking, drug use, addiction, death.
What I Liked
This book was fantastic. It depicted down to a tee what it is like to be a high schooler on summer vacation. Anybody could read this book and see themselves in Cait and her friends. I know I did. Even though this is most likely a work of fiction, it had elements of truth behind it and that is this books biggest strength.
Cait, who was the main character, was written quite well. It’s not always easy to write teenagers but Katey Taylor did an excellent job of capturing the fickleness of teenagers. I truly saw my teenage self in Cait. The events she experienced during the course of the book was something teenagers face everyday. I enjoyed her voice and found myself rooting for Cait all the way.
What Left Me Wanting More
It was difficult to come up with something that left me wanting more because this book was terrific but I did manage to come up with at least one. One thing, and this is more of a personal choice, is the way the text messaging/instant messaging was formatted in the book. It was the same text style as the rest of the book so it made it a little tricky to discern when there was a text and when there was the rest of the story. This might not bother some as it did help with the flow of the book.
Final Verdict
Inebriated is a one of kind book that everybody should read. It has well written teenagers, a great, albeit heartbreaking plot and a main character that you will absolutely fall in love with.
February 23, 2021
3.5/5*
Original review
This book was provided by the author through Wildfire Marketing Solutions in exchange for an honest review. Thank you Katey Taylor and Wildfire Marketing Solutions!
Inebriated is the first book in the Inebriated series and tells the story of Cait and Adrien.
When I started reading this book, I thought everything was going to be different at the end of the book but it was not. I have some mixed feelings about this book. I really liked the concept of the story. I liked that Katey Taylor talked about addiction, death, family. But the thing that bothered me about this book was the main character and her interest.
Cait is a wild high school student who loves to party and drink with her friends. I’m not always okay with the choices she’s made in this book and that annoyed me. She’s so reckless and doesn’t think things through. Adrien is a struggling addict and musician and he doesn’t make the best choices either. Their relationship isn’t healthy at all…
As I mentioned before I have mixed feelings about Inebriated but I liked how the book ended. I’m really curious what Katey Taylor will write in the next book in the series, Neon Nights!
Original review
This book was provided by the author through Wildfire Marketing Solutions in exchange for an honest review. Thank you Katey Taylor and Wildfire Marketing Solutions!
Inebriated is the first book in the Inebriated series and tells the story of Cait and Adrien.
When I started reading this book, I thought everything was going to be different at the end of the book but it was not. I have some mixed feelings about this book. I really liked the concept of the story. I liked that Katey Taylor talked about addiction, death, family. But the thing that bothered me about this book was the main character and her interest.
Cait is a wild high school student who loves to party and drink with her friends. I’m not always okay with the choices she’s made in this book and that annoyed me. She’s so reckless and doesn’t think things through. Adrien is a struggling addict and musician and he doesn’t make the best choices either. Their relationship isn’t healthy at all…
As I mentioned before I have mixed feelings about Inebriated but I liked how the book ended. I’m really curious what Katey Taylor will write in the next book in the series, Neon Nights!
July 30, 2020
Inebriated was not the book I thought it was going to be. I expected more of a cautionary tale on addiction (closer to Go Ask Alice) but what I got was the glamorification of an incredibly unhealthy relationship.
Inebriated felt so unrealisic. Cait, the main character, goes on weekend long benders, stays at a hotel of a guy she just met, is constantly drunk and her parents are just absent. It made no sense.
The worst part of this book was the 'romance'. Cait dates Adrien, an unstable alcoholic. The relationship is beyond unhealthy with an uncomfortable age difference. The whole relationship starts when Adrien has sex with Cait, a then 17 year old virgin, whilst she is incredibly drunk.
I never understood why Cait was drinking so much, or making all these clearly terrible life choices. The biggest problem in her life was that her parents are divorcing which just did not fit how much she was spiraling.
As an actual teenager, I feel qualified to say this book is incredibly unrealistic. Do teens do drugs? Sure! But teenagers who are literal alcoholics (who also do cocaine) tend to have deeper reasons for turning to drugs, beyond wanting to party.
Inebriated felt like watching a MADD presentation but with none of the morals. I would not be comfortable recommending this book to a teen.
Inebriated felt so unrealisic. Cait, the main character, goes on weekend long benders, stays at a hotel of a guy she just met, is constantly drunk and her parents are just absent. It made no sense.
The worst part of this book was the 'romance'. Cait dates Adrien, an unstable alcoholic. The relationship is beyond unhealthy with an uncomfortable age difference. The whole relationship starts when Adrien has sex with Cait, a then 17 year old virgin, whilst she is incredibly drunk.
I never understood why Cait was drinking so much, or making all these clearly terrible life choices. The biggest problem in her life was that her parents are divorcing which just did not fit how much she was spiraling.
As an actual teenager, I feel qualified to say this book is incredibly unrealistic. Do teens do drugs? Sure! But teenagers who are literal alcoholics (who also do cocaine) tend to have deeper reasons for turning to drugs, beyond wanting to party.
Inebriated felt like watching a MADD presentation but with none of the morals. I would not be comfortable recommending this book to a teen.
June 28, 2020
At first, I almost chose to DNF Inebriated. I'm not quite sure what made me continue on, but I'm kind of glad that I did. It's not for the faint of heart at all. It's heartbreaking and real.
We follow along with Cait and her friends . . . these party-hard group of girls who are into underage drinking and soon into drugs. Soon enough Cait breaks away from the group and meets an older guy, who believes she's older than she actually is — which is a completely separate issue — then eventually ditches her friends. But is still heavy into drinking.
The thing about this new guy is his abusive and unpredictable personality. Which makes Cait spiral. Then there's just a bunch of bad decisions along the way. In the end, we see Cait try to right herself.
This is a book about alcohol and drug abuse, bad relationships, mental health, and getting your head above water. It's not for everyone. Please go into it with all of that in mind.
We follow along with Cait and her friends . . . these party-hard group of girls who are into underage drinking and soon into drugs. Soon enough Cait breaks away from the group and meets an older guy, who believes she's older than she actually is — which is a completely separate issue — then eventually ditches her friends. But is still heavy into drinking.
The thing about this new guy is his abusive and unpredictable personality. Which makes Cait spiral. Then there's just a bunch of bad decisions along the way. In the end, we see Cait try to right herself.
This is a book about alcohol and drug abuse, bad relationships, mental health, and getting your head above water. It's not for everyone. Please go into it with all of that in mind.
December 9, 2020
All the feels!!!! OMG!!!
Maybe I'm being a bit lenient on the believable factor, but I absolutely loved this story.
I was completely sucked in from the first page and devoured it.
This book brought me back to my teenage years and I was able to relate to how these girls were feeling. Obviously, I was allowed the freedom that they were, but it made me remember the pressures : Sex, drugs, alcohol.... and how tricky those situations were to navigate.
I am still thinking about the book and the outcomes even after finishing it. I am looking forward to picking up the sequal and seeing how Cait is doing now.
A special thank you to NetGalley, Amazon, and Katey Taylor for providing me with and ARC.
Maybe I'm being a bit lenient on the believable factor, but I absolutely loved this story.
I was completely sucked in from the first page and devoured it.
This book brought me back to my teenage years and I was able to relate to how these girls were feeling. Obviously, I was allowed the freedom that they were, but it made me remember the pressures : Sex, drugs, alcohol.... and how tricky those situations were to navigate.
I am still thinking about the book and the outcomes even after finishing it. I am looking forward to picking up the sequal and seeing how Cait is doing now.
A special thank you to NetGalley, Amazon, and Katey Taylor for providing me with and ARC.
April 19, 2019
This is exactly my type of book. I was actually mad when I had to put it down to deal with real life.
Having said that, this book also exasperated me almost as much as I loved it. The characters were so incredibly flawed that all I did was yell at them for the entirety of the storyline.
The basis was intriguing a 17 year old meets her idol, musician Adrian and surprise, surprise, they actually end up together.
At first, I though the story would go in typical fashion - fan meets star and has sex, only to never see them again. But Adrian actually did "fall" for Cait in a way and it was like watching a car crash (no pun intended) in slow motion.
I loved that the author did not show Adrian as a complete jerk, but rather someone who is extremely broken, but who does have moments of "reality". I think, in many ways, he was the most interesting of all the characters and the best fleshed out.
His mood swings and his honestly about his drug addiction were compelling, until you remember that he made a conscious choice of sleeping with a 17 year old while he was battling his demon.
Cait is probably the character I disliked the most and the one that was the least fleshed out. If her actions were meant to be some kind of mental rebellion against her parent's divorce, then I don't really by it. This was one spoiled little princess who was at times incredibly immature and at other times more mature than all of them. But she constantly walked that line and by the way, as she worried about everyone else's addictions, she might have asked herself.....why do I need booze when I go to ANY social events?
I think the story failed in a few spots with this character. Her actions are never really explained and that includes why she would think it is ok to let her friends start/do cocaine. Was she so self centered that she only could handle her own stuff? I never found that she was a good friend. A good friend would have tried to talk her friends from doing things that were dangerous or just plain stupid. Cait failed big time in that area.
Steph was okay, but again, what was her problem? Was it as simple as "young, rich and dumb?".
One of the biggest issues I could see was that NONE of these kids had jobs and it is never really mentioned. I get that Steph "had money" but what about everyone else? I can't believe that Cait, as a 17 year old, was not expected to get a job for the summer.
I also saw very minimal parental guidance in this story, which, of course, goes a long way in explaining what happened. The ease in which these kids got their hands on booze was also alarming as was the fact that Cait could "sleep over/out" so many times. The parents were obviously written as caricatures of themselves - no parent is that dumb!
Finally, the ending of this book is awful and very, very sad. Yet, once again, Cait gets away free. Come on, there should have been consequences for her - she was a huge part of the problem in the first place and yet, once again, she skates. What a terrible friend.
As a final question mark.....why were none of the kids worried about oh I don't know little things like HIV or sexually transmitted diseases? especially considering the story line.
As you can see I dissected this story to pieces, which means I loved it. I can't wait to read more from this author.
Having said that, this book also exasperated me almost as much as I loved it. The characters were so incredibly flawed that all I did was yell at them for the entirety of the storyline.
The basis was intriguing a 17 year old meets her idol, musician Adrian and surprise, surprise, they actually end up together.
At first, I though the story would go in typical fashion - fan meets star and has sex, only to never see them again. But Adrian actually did "fall" for Cait in a way and it was like watching a car crash (no pun intended) in slow motion.
I loved that the author did not show Adrian as a complete jerk, but rather someone who is extremely broken, but who does have moments of "reality". I think, in many ways, he was the most interesting of all the characters and the best fleshed out.
His mood swings and his honestly about his drug addiction were compelling, until you remember that he made a conscious choice of sleeping with a 17 year old while he was battling his demon.
Cait is probably the character I disliked the most and the one that was the least fleshed out. If her actions were meant to be some kind of mental rebellion against her parent's divorce, then I don't really by it. This was one spoiled little princess who was at times incredibly immature and at other times more mature than all of them. But she constantly walked that line and by the way, as she worried about everyone else's addictions, she might have asked herself.....why do I need booze when I go to ANY social events?
I think the story failed in a few spots with this character. Her actions are never really explained and that includes why she would think it is ok to let her friends start/do cocaine. Was she so self centered that she only could handle her own stuff? I never found that she was a good friend. A good friend would have tried to talk her friends from doing things that were dangerous or just plain stupid. Cait failed big time in that area.
Steph was okay, but again, what was her problem? Was it as simple as "young, rich and dumb?".
One of the biggest issues I could see was that NONE of these kids had jobs and it is never really mentioned. I get that Steph "had money" but what about everyone else? I can't believe that Cait, as a 17 year old, was not expected to get a job for the summer.
I also saw very minimal parental guidance in this story, which, of course, goes a long way in explaining what happened. The ease in which these kids got their hands on booze was also alarming as was the fact that Cait could "sleep over/out" so many times. The parents were obviously written as caricatures of themselves - no parent is that dumb!
Finally, the ending of this book is awful and very, very sad. Yet, once again, Cait gets away free. Come on, there should have been consequences for her - she was a huge part of the problem in the first place and yet, once again, she skates. What a terrible friend.
As a final question mark.....why were none of the kids worried about oh I don't know little things like HIV or sexually transmitted diseases? especially considering the story line.
As you can see I dissected this story to pieces, which means I loved it. I can't wait to read more from this author.
September 14, 2020
I didn’t expect the book to be dealing with so many disturbing topics, and describing what that teens nowadays are doing. It was unexpected and interesting.
What I like about the book is the end. And I liked how she learned what her mistakes are. I didn’t like the mistakes she did. I was the ever disapproving and disappointed mom friend. But I do see the point of it.
The mistakes she made are what real people do. And some of them never realize. The decisions she made at the end were good, because it showed a better side of her, and a more mature way of handling her mistakes.
Even as I liked the decisions she took over at the end, I believe that Cait should have been the more responsible person and maybe even told her dad or mom about most of the things she did, because even though they would be mad, they would give her advice.
What I worried at the end is about Allie, because she needs people, friends and a therapist. The occurrences may leave her damaged in many ways, to which she may have suicidal thoughts, or even a whole new personality.
What I want is for the next book to be better, and I want Cait to understand what her mistakes were, and what she can learn from them.
I see that she is young and thinks that she loved Adrien, but she doesn’t really. He was her crush, and after loosing her v-card to him, it made her feel attached. But she truly needs a man who will take care of her and show her the world from a different perspective. To which also she will grow and mature into a better person.
Teens nowdays live mostly the same life as these characters, that is why the characters were fleshed out and felt real.
The main thing that caught my attention in this book is the problematic family and the lying. Teens are affected even more by their parents’s relationship, especially if it involves a divorce. Most of the partying and making bad decisions may be because of that- not saying that this is why Cait did all the things she did. But also friends that you hang out with are a big part of who you are, and what decisions you make.
I quite honestly felt disturbed by the amount of alcohol underage teens are drinking. And the way they are losing their virginity while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
As for a trigger warning, I will say that this book is not for everyone because it deals with heavy topics, and it may be difficult to understand the characters if you haven’t seen, heard or read about thing such as these.
Be careful if you want to read this book and feel uncomfortable about scenes such as- sexual harassment, death, drug abuse and alcoholism.
What I like about the book is the end. And I liked how she learned what her mistakes are. I didn’t like the mistakes she did. I was the ever disapproving and disappointed mom friend. But I do see the point of it.
The mistakes she made are what real people do. And some of them never realize. The decisions she made at the end were good, because it showed a better side of her, and a more mature way of handling her mistakes.
Even as I liked the decisions she took over at the end, I believe that Cait should have been the more responsible person and maybe even told her dad or mom about most of the things she did, because even though they would be mad, they would give her advice.
What I worried at the end is about Allie, because she needs people, friends and a therapist. The occurrences may leave her damaged in many ways, to which she may have suicidal thoughts, or even a whole new personality.
What I want is for the next book to be better, and I want Cait to understand what her mistakes were, and what she can learn from them.
I see that she is young and thinks that she loved Adrien, but she doesn’t really. He was her crush, and after loosing her v-card to him, it made her feel attached. But she truly needs a man who will take care of her and show her the world from a different perspective. To which also she will grow and mature into a better person.
Teens nowdays live mostly the same life as these characters, that is why the characters were fleshed out and felt real.
The main thing that caught my attention in this book is the problematic family and the lying. Teens are affected even more by their parents’s relationship, especially if it involves a divorce. Most of the partying and making bad decisions may be because of that- not saying that this is why Cait did all the things she did. But also friends that you hang out with are a big part of who you are, and what decisions you make.
I quite honestly felt disturbed by the amount of alcohol underage teens are drinking. And the way they are losing their virginity while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
As for a trigger warning, I will say that this book is not for everyone because it deals with heavy topics, and it may be difficult to understand the characters if you haven’t seen, heard or read about thing such as these.
Be careful if you want to read this book and feel uncomfortable about scenes such as- sexual harassment, death, drug abuse and alcoholism.
May 31, 2020
'Inebriated' by Katey Taylor is a hauntingly real look at the power of intoxication, whether it be in the form of alcohol, drugs, or the lure of partying. The story finds its footing exploring a world in which the allure of each of these tests various characters' abilities to make morally sound choices.
Cait and her best friends Steph and Allie are high school girls headed into their senior year. They seemingly have it all – beauty, friendship, and the ability to get what they want when they want it. When Cait and Steph head out one night to Swank, a nightclub in San Francisco, to see Adrien Cross, their favorite musician, little do they know that this one night out is going to turn into a torrid love affair for Cait and Adrien. Despite being several years younger than him, having used a fake ID to get into the club, Cait's attraction to Adrien, and vice versa, is too strong to contain. When she ends up going home with him after his concert, she loses herself in him. Their time together is seemingly over until he calls her after finding something of hers in his apartment.
While her life outside of her house is going great, hanging out with a hot musician, getting drunk and living life to its fullest, her home life is going down the drain. Her parents' divorce, while she knew it was coming, weighs on her and causes her to use it as a means of acting out. She doesn't consider herself to be lashing out at her parents. They don't even know what's going on. Yet, Cait's decisions, despite seeming to be better than those of her friends at times, are more often than not questionable. When trouble strikes, she has to find a way to cope with her past decisions, along with those of her friends.
Truth and perspective, the reality of addiction, and the struggle to shape one's life in a meaningful way while still being too young to know how to make wiser decisions than drinking all day long rule this novel. Katey Taylor has crafted a very telling and vivid picture of the way in which privilege and insecurity can go hand in hand. Looking forward to reading Cait's next adventure in 'Neon Nights,' the sequel to this story.
Beth Rodgers, Author of 'Welcome to Chanu-Con!,' a Children's Picture Book, and Freshman Fourteen' and 'Sweet Fifteen,' Young Adult Novels
*Review originally posted at YABooksCentral.com*
Cait and her best friends Steph and Allie are high school girls headed into their senior year. They seemingly have it all – beauty, friendship, and the ability to get what they want when they want it. When Cait and Steph head out one night to Swank, a nightclub in San Francisco, to see Adrien Cross, their favorite musician, little do they know that this one night out is going to turn into a torrid love affair for Cait and Adrien. Despite being several years younger than him, having used a fake ID to get into the club, Cait's attraction to Adrien, and vice versa, is too strong to contain. When she ends up going home with him after his concert, she loses herself in him. Their time together is seemingly over until he calls her after finding something of hers in his apartment.
While her life outside of her house is going great, hanging out with a hot musician, getting drunk and living life to its fullest, her home life is going down the drain. Her parents' divorce, while she knew it was coming, weighs on her and causes her to use it as a means of acting out. She doesn't consider herself to be lashing out at her parents. They don't even know what's going on. Yet, Cait's decisions, despite seeming to be better than those of her friends at times, are more often than not questionable. When trouble strikes, she has to find a way to cope with her past decisions, along with those of her friends.
Truth and perspective, the reality of addiction, and the struggle to shape one's life in a meaningful way while still being too young to know how to make wiser decisions than drinking all day long rule this novel. Katey Taylor has crafted a very telling and vivid picture of the way in which privilege and insecurity can go hand in hand. Looking forward to reading Cait's next adventure in 'Neon Nights,' the sequel to this story.
Beth Rodgers, Author of 'Welcome to Chanu-Con!,' a Children's Picture Book, and Freshman Fourteen' and 'Sweet Fifteen,' Young Adult Novels
*Review originally posted at YABooksCentral.com*
November 24, 2020
➳ Rate: 5 / 5 stars
Katey reeled me in from the beginning with all the shenanigans Cait and her bffs got into. She was a wild one but I loved her and my heart broke for her again and again with all that she went through in these two books. Once Adrien got in the picture, I became even more invested in the story and these characters, watching them fall in love and try to work through their turmoils. I was just hoping for the best the whole time. It's a known fact how much I love rockstar or just musician-centered romances so I was so excited when I realized the hero was a musician!
Inebriated is a wonderful debut novel from Katey Taylor and it depicts so many issues. It is heavily centered on alcohol and substance abuse and I think it was really well represented both in the context of teens who just want to have a good time and are usually lead to these consumptions by their peers and also in the context of fame and the rock and roll lifestyle. Yes, it was very frustrating to read at times, and I wanted to shake some of the characters so hard. They don't make the best decisions, they are wild and reckless and they all pay in the end. This book is entertaining, it's exciting and also very real and emotional.
I was super invested in this story and all these characters. The end of the book broke my heart but I had so much hope because there was a book 2, which I started immediately. I loved the two main characters so much, I just needed to see what was in store for them.
➳ Order at: Amazon UK ⁕ Amazon US
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Katey reeled me in from the beginning with all the shenanigans Cait and her bffs got into. She was a wild one but I loved her and my heart broke for her again and again with all that she went through in these two books. Once Adrien got in the picture, I became even more invested in the story and these characters, watching them fall in love and try to work through their turmoils. I was just hoping for the best the whole time. It's a known fact how much I love rockstar or just musician-centered romances so I was so excited when I realized the hero was a musician!
Inebriated is a wonderful debut novel from Katey Taylor and it depicts so many issues. It is heavily centered on alcohol and substance abuse and I think it was really well represented both in the context of teens who just want to have a good time and are usually lead to these consumptions by their peers and also in the context of fame and the rock and roll lifestyle. Yes, it was very frustrating to read at times, and I wanted to shake some of the characters so hard. They don't make the best decisions, they are wild and reckless and they all pay in the end. This book is entertaining, it's exciting and also very real and emotional.
I was super invested in this story and all these characters. The end of the book broke my heart but I had so much hope because there was a book 2, which I started immediately. I loved the two main characters so much, I just needed to see what was in store for them.
➳ Order at: Amazon UK ⁕ Amazon US
➳ Follow me on: Blog ⁕ Instagram ⁕ Facebook ⁕ Twitter
December 30, 2022
Nope.
First off, I will preface this review by acknowledging that yes, I do know this is a YA novel. I wasn't expecting it to be overly sophisticated or eloquent, but this felt so disjointed and clumsy. I think even 13 year old me would have chewed this up and spit it out.
I also didn't WANT to hate this, because honestly I like Cait and I pitied her. There was an element of naivety present that made for an interesting angle-that there were so many serious things going on around a person who couldn't yet make sense of it all at their age. However, I think Taylor may have taken this too far. Cait is so removed from the events of the story that it seems like she doesn't even care-Steph's death did not receive nearly enough reaction from her IMO.
The "romance" aspect of this eclipsed everything at the expense of the other elements of grief and tragedy, and the "romance" itself was shoddy. Yes, Cait finally acknowledges it was a toxic relationship at the end, but fails to take it a step further and acknowledge that what was happening was abuse and illegal in the first place since she's 17. I know there's a sequel, and though I won't read it I sincerely hope Taylor writes that into her arc because I could not believe it had gone unsaid in here. Not to mention that this girl clearly has a drinking problem which so far has been treated extremely lightly.
I'm not saying the author condones Cait and her friends' behavior, because of course that's ridiculous. I just feel like this is not convincing enough to a teenager reading this that they SHOULDN'T engage in this behavior. I was expecting Taylor to drive more of a learning lesson home, but really it felt like she was glamorizing alcoholism and recklessness. I sound like an old lady. But seriously, this book made me sad because I don't think it did what it set out to do.
First off, I will preface this review by acknowledging that yes, I do know this is a YA novel. I wasn't expecting it to be overly sophisticated or eloquent, but this felt so disjointed and clumsy. I think even 13 year old me would have chewed this up and spit it out.
I also didn't WANT to hate this, because honestly I like Cait and I pitied her. There was an element of naivety present that made for an interesting angle-that there were so many serious things going on around a person who couldn't yet make sense of it all at their age. However, I think Taylor may have taken this too far. Cait is so removed from the events of the story that it seems like she doesn't even care-Steph's death did not receive nearly enough reaction from her IMO.
The "romance" aspect of this eclipsed everything at the expense of the other elements of grief and tragedy, and the "romance" itself was shoddy. Yes, Cait finally acknowledges it was a toxic relationship at the end, but fails to take it a step further and acknowledge that what was happening was abuse and illegal in the first place since she's 17. I know there's a sequel, and though I won't read it I sincerely hope Taylor writes that into her arc because I could not believe it had gone unsaid in here. Not to mention that this girl clearly has a drinking problem which so far has been treated extremely lightly.
I'm not saying the author condones Cait and her friends' behavior, because of course that's ridiculous. I just feel like this is not convincing enough to a teenager reading this that they SHOULDN'T engage in this behavior. I was expecting Taylor to drive more of a learning lesson home, but really it felt like she was glamorizing alcoholism and recklessness. I sound like an old lady. But seriously, this book made me sad because I don't think it did what it set out to do.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 26, 2019
3.5 Stars
Caitlyn Taylor is 17 and is best friends with Allie and Steph and the three enjoy sneaking into the club Swank to listen to some of their favorite bands perform. They plan on making the most out of their summer with drinking but soon they find themselves introduced to other things at parties.
When Caitlyn meets Adrien Cross, the lead singer of their favorite indie band she is brought into another world but when he discovers how young she really is will he walk away?
Will this be a summer to remember or will the summer face them to grow up faster than they ever thought possible?
For me as a parent I did struggle with this book and the topics that it covered with all of the lies that were told and all of the sneaking out. It seemed to me that all of the parents of the girls just had no clue at all about what was going in with their children and I really struggled with that.
I liked Caitlyn but I hated so many of the choices that she made. I know that certain things are part of growing up, but it was clear that she and her friends had way to much freedom at a young age and got into too much trouble. I was glad that she stayed away from the hard drugs but I hated that she did succumb to peer pressure so much.
I had mixed feelings about Adrien. It was clear that he had his own demons but I was shocked at him continuing with Caitlyn once he learned more about her.
I was so mad at the end of the book and the events that happened because of drugs and alcohol. It was heartbreaking but I was so mad that the parents were not aware of anything that was going on.
I was glad that Caitlyn made some good decisions at the end and I hope it’s enough to get her going in the right direction.- By Rebecca
Caitlyn Taylor is 17 and is best friends with Allie and Steph and the three enjoy sneaking into the club Swank to listen to some of their favorite bands perform. They plan on making the most out of their summer with drinking but soon they find themselves introduced to other things at parties.
When Caitlyn meets Adrien Cross, the lead singer of their favorite indie band she is brought into another world but when he discovers how young she really is will he walk away?
Will this be a summer to remember or will the summer face them to grow up faster than they ever thought possible?
For me as a parent I did struggle with this book and the topics that it covered with all of the lies that were told and all of the sneaking out. It seemed to me that all of the parents of the girls just had no clue at all about what was going in with their children and I really struggled with that.
I liked Caitlyn but I hated so many of the choices that she made. I know that certain things are part of growing up, but it was clear that she and her friends had way to much freedom at a young age and got into too much trouble. I was glad that she stayed away from the hard drugs but I hated that she did succumb to peer pressure so much.
I had mixed feelings about Adrien. It was clear that he had his own demons but I was shocked at him continuing with Caitlyn once he learned more about her.
I was so mad at the end of the book and the events that happened because of drugs and alcohol. It was heartbreaking but I was so mad that the parents were not aware of anything that was going on.
I was glad that Caitlyn made some good decisions at the end and I hope it’s enough to get her going in the right direction.- By Rebecca
March 13, 2020
This book was a very interesting read subject wise and it was also very easy to get into with the way that it was written. The book starts out with our main character Cait, who is a teenager and a drunk. She parties with her
friends every weekend and is a little bit shallow and vain only thinking about what she wants to do. But I guess that a lot of teenagers can be placed into that category. With Cait parents going through a divorce she dives deeper into the drinking and partying, and one night she runs the lead singer of her favourite band Adiren Cross. That is when the drinking really starts to take a toll and Cait's life all falls apart. She becomes a shell of the girl that she once was only thinking about her next drink or hit, and she even blacks out losing chucks of her day at a time, however she still does not realize that there is a problem. It isn't until a tragic event happens that she finally opens her eyes and realizes the error in her ways. I really enjoyed this book because it had such a simple flow to it and the character was so likable that I really was rooting for her to clean up her act through the whole story. Also even when she was abusing drugs and alcohol she didn't come across like a zombie that I have seen characters do in these types of stories before. The characters were very likable and the story line was very fast paced always keeping you on your toes like a good YA novel needs to do. This book must be read by fans of YA novels as well as fans of substance abuse. Great read and I'm very glad that I got the chance to check it out.
friends every weekend and is a little bit shallow and vain only thinking about what she wants to do. But I guess that a lot of teenagers can be placed into that category. With Cait parents going through a divorce she dives deeper into the drinking and partying, and one night she runs the lead singer of her favourite band Adiren Cross. That is when the drinking really starts to take a toll and Cait's life all falls apart. She becomes a shell of the girl that she once was only thinking about her next drink or hit, and she even blacks out losing chucks of her day at a time, however she still does not realize that there is a problem. It isn't until a tragic event happens that she finally opens her eyes and realizes the error in her ways. I really enjoyed this book because it had such a simple flow to it and the character was so likable that I really was rooting for her to clean up her act through the whole story. Also even when she was abusing drugs and alcohol she didn't come across like a zombie that I have seen characters do in these types of stories before. The characters were very likable and the story line was very fast paced always keeping you on your toes like a good YA novel needs to do. This book must be read by fans of YA novels as well as fans of substance abuse. Great read and I'm very glad that I got the chance to check it out.
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