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Chronicles of V #1
Glass Stars
A shocking disappearance. Tragic family news. V searches for answers… even if it leads her into the face of danger.
Fourteen-year-old freshman Violet “V” Jiménez knows Emma will have her back on their first anxiety-ridden day of high school. So when her best friend is kidnapped just as classes begin, the determined V vows to find Emma at any cost. But her resolve is thrown a major curve with her mother’s sudden cancer diagnosis.
Struggling to cope with the shock of her mom’s ailing health and feeling things couldn’t possibly get worse, V finds solace following in the footsteps of her favorite teenage TV detective. When she discovers a link to another missing girl, her investigation takes her on an alarming ride deep inside an insidious criminal lair.
Can V expose the city’s menacing underbelly before her friend is lost forever?
Glass Stars is the first book in the mesmerizing Glass Stars YA contemporary fiction series. If you like gutsy heroines and heartbreaking conspiracies, you’ll love Tasche Laine’s venture into the darker side of trouble.
Fourteen-year-old freshman Violet “V” Jiménez knows Emma will have her back on their first anxiety-ridden day of high school. So when her best friend is kidnapped just as classes begin, the determined V vows to find Emma at any cost. But her resolve is thrown a major curve with her mother’s sudden cancer diagnosis.
Struggling to cope with the shock of her mom’s ailing health and feeling things couldn’t possibly get worse, V finds solace following in the footsteps of her favorite teenage TV detective. When she discovers a link to another missing girl, her investigation takes her on an alarming ride deep inside an insidious criminal lair.
Can V expose the city’s menacing underbelly before her friend is lost forever?
Glass Stars is the first book in the mesmerizing Glass Stars YA contemporary fiction series. If you like gutsy heroines and heartbreaking conspiracies, you’ll love Tasche Laine’s venture into the darker side of trouble.
- GenresYoung Adult
Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2022
9 people are currently reading
38 people want to read
About the author
Tasche Laine
34 books67 followersTasche Laine is a storyteller at heart, weaving tales across genres for readers of all ages. From her award-winning novels Closure and Chameleon, to the heartfelt mysteries of her young adult series, Chronicles of V, and the charming adventures of Lil Peter, co-written with her husband, Peter Valdez, Tasche’s writing is as versatile as it is captivating.
With a background in journalism, teaching, and editing, Tasche brings a keen eye and a compassionate touch to every story she tells. Now happily nestled in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and their two mischievous pups, Story and Page, she draws inspiration from misty mornings and towering trees.
Want to know what she’s writing next? Visit taschelaine.com to stay connected.
With a background in journalism, teaching, and editing, Tasche brings a keen eye and a compassionate touch to every story she tells. Now happily nestled in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and their two mischievous pups, Story and Page, she draws inspiration from misty mornings and towering trees.
Want to know what she’s writing next? Visit taschelaine.com to stay connected.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
July 19, 2020
Glass Stars is an emotional book where a teenager has so much going on, it's hard to imagine her even functioning. At the start of High School, no one should have to worry about the things that she does.
I love how the main character, V, identifies with Veronica Mars. That's one of my favorite shows, and I love Kristen Bell so all of that made me instantly bond with V.
The book is definitely for teens, it's written a little younger than some of the YA books I read, but I think it's true to the characters being 14. The author did a great job of making her writing sound like the voice of a 14 year old girl.
I was a little disappointed in the end, but it's unrealistic to expect everything to work out perfectly. I won't say more to avoid spoilers.
*I was given a free advanced copy of this book, which I voluntarily reviewed.*
I love how the main character, V, identifies with Veronica Mars. That's one of my favorite shows, and I love Kristen Bell so all of that made me instantly bond with V.
The book is definitely for teens, it's written a little younger than some of the YA books I read, but I think it's true to the characters being 14. The author did a great job of making her writing sound like the voice of a 14 year old girl.
I was a little disappointed in the end, but it's unrealistic to expect everything to work out perfectly. I won't say more to avoid spoilers.
*I was given a free advanced copy of this book, which I voluntarily reviewed.*
April 5, 2025
This is the first book in a 4 book YA series. I enjoyed the main character “V” and her unwavering commitment to her friend Emma while also facing a personal struggle when her mom is diagnosed with cancer. Even though the book is YA, it did not feel “too young” for me to be reading, in fact, I bought the rest of the series as well. After reading the author’s note and learning of the book’s preface, you can’t help but love this author’s intention. Whether you are YA or OA “old adult” 😂 you will enjoy this book.
January 13, 2023
This was an adventurous, mysterious, intense, and emotional read all rolled into one! I loved the character of V and found it easy to connect with her and her thoughts. The role of a teenage detective is so fun and I found myself shaking my head at V’s shenanigans, while still eager to see what she’d do next! Her determination and bravery were inspiring, but I’m glad she still learned some lessons about safety and making good decisions.
V had to deal with more hardship and trauma in a short period of time than many will in their lives. I felt for her and was very invested in both the storylines regarding Emma’s disappearance and Hannah’s cancer. Things got even darker and more surprising once V landed in Portland… I was surprised and disturbed by the turn of events there. This book highlights some unfortunate realities of the real world, which only made it harder to read.
Despite the darkness, the story still ended with hope and happiness. I now feel attached to V, her family, and her friends and look forward to seeing what kinds of mysteries she continues to solve in future books! I have a feeling she won’t give up her investigative instincts any time soon. 🕵🏼♀️
V had to deal with more hardship and trauma in a short period of time than many will in their lives. I felt for her and was very invested in both the storylines regarding Emma’s disappearance and Hannah’s cancer. Things got even darker and more surprising once V landed in Portland… I was surprised and disturbed by the turn of events there. This book highlights some unfortunate realities of the real world, which only made it harder to read.
Despite the darkness, the story still ended with hope and happiness. I now feel attached to V, her family, and her friends and look forward to seeing what kinds of mysteries she continues to solve in future books! I have a feeling she won’t give up her investigative instincts any time soon. 🕵🏼♀️
August 4, 2020
This book was a pager-turner, I couldn’t put it down! The main character is a 14yr old named Violet and she goes by “V.” I loved following the emotional roller coaster of events and excitement! The author does a great job of handling difficult subjects like kids being kidnapped. I think it is so important to talk about these things and I appreciate how the story is realistic even though it is fiction. V is a very relatable character, and Glass Stars is fantastic!
April 11, 2021
I enjoyed this book! It had a fun-loving family element and a crime-fighting mysterious feel.
V (Violet, but please call her 'V'), a spunky 14-year-old freshman, goes looking for her best friend, Emma, who's been kidnapped. Along her journey, she meets a series of people that help her find her way. This YA novel was heart-warming and heart-pounding. A great read!
Also, I loved this tatoo:
Alis Volat Propriis - she flies with her own wings (and V certainly did!)
V (Violet, but please call her 'V'), a spunky 14-year-old freshman, goes looking for her best friend, Emma, who's been kidnapped. Along her journey, she meets a series of people that help her find her way. This YA novel was heart-warming and heart-pounding. A great read!
Also, I loved this tatoo:
Alis Volat Propriis - she flies with her own wings (and V certainly did!)
July 27, 2020
Glass Stars is a page-turning sometimes a gut-wrenching wonderful story. The storytelling was amazing considering it covered cancer, child abduction, and sex trafficking. All of the characters were relatable and well developed. Ms. Laine has outdone herself with this book. It is a must-read. I highly recommend it. Be prepared to stay up late. I couldn't put it down. Read it in one sitting.
January 25, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. It wasn’t what I expected and it didn’t disappoint! The main character V was easy to relate to. Probably because she reminded me of someone I knew when I was younger. Regardless, the adventure was intense and easy to get wrapped up in. This was a great book to start a series and I can’t wait for book 2!
July 26, 2020
A riveting story about a young teenage girl named V. I read the book in one sitting, it's a page turner, and heart wrenching. I recommend this book to anyone that loves a great read!
July 29, 2020
High school and life challenges.
'Glass Stars' should appeal to young adults, especially female, who can relate to high school jitters and facing major life challenges at a young age.
On her first day of high school, V (short for Violet) must face a major crisis involving her best (and only) friend. As if that were not enough, she soon has to deal with a serious family trauma.
'Glass Stars' is both a young adult mystery story, as well as a heart rending tale of coming to terms with major life issues; oh, and not to forget the challenges of dealing with high school for the first time!
If you can relate to any or all of these dilemmas, then you'll enjoy this well-written book.
'Glass Stars' should appeal to young adults, especially female, who can relate to high school jitters and facing major life challenges at a young age.
On her first day of high school, V (short for Violet) must face a major crisis involving her best (and only) friend. As if that were not enough, she soon has to deal with a serious family trauma.
'Glass Stars' is both a young adult mystery story, as well as a heart rending tale of coming to terms with major life issues; oh, and not to forget the challenges of dealing with high school for the first time!
If you can relate to any or all of these dilemmas, then you'll enjoy this well-written book.
August 1, 2020
Wonderful Read
Glass Stars captured my attention from the beginning and held it until the end. It's an easy read and the author weaves together a powerful story that keeps you wanting to turn the page.
Glass Stars captured my attention from the beginning and held it until the end. It's an easy read and the author weaves together a powerful story that keeps you wanting to turn the page.
July 9, 2020
First, I want to thank Tasche Laine for providing me with this book so I may bring you with this review.
Tasche Laine is back again with a must read book in Glass Stars. Glass Stars covers some very important topics that will leave a lasting impact even after the book is finished.
Be ready for an emotional rollercoaster ride as Tasche tackles abduction, breast cancer, and sex trafficking.
This is one book that I did not predict the outcome to. I was totally by the twist in the book and how it ended.
Tasche does an incredible job educating her readers about breast cancer, the testing, the treatment, the emotional effects it has on the family, and the physical effects it has on the patient.
I loved how strong of a character V was and how she was determined to get the results she wanted. She took some big risks though.
I am a huge fan of Kristen Bell and Veronica Mars so I absolutely loved that whole storyline. Not to mention I too love everything pop culture and if given the chance to have met her I would have jumped at the chance as well.
Tasche Laine is back again with a must read book in Glass Stars. Glass Stars covers some very important topics that will leave a lasting impact even after the book is finished.
Be ready for an emotional rollercoaster ride as Tasche tackles abduction, breast cancer, and sex trafficking.
This is one book that I did not predict the outcome to. I was totally by the twist in the book and how it ended.
Tasche does an incredible job educating her readers about breast cancer, the testing, the treatment, the emotional effects it has on the family, and the physical effects it has on the patient.
I loved how strong of a character V was and how she was determined to get the results she wanted. She took some big risks though.
I am a huge fan of Kristen Bell and Veronica Mars so I absolutely loved that whole storyline. Not to mention I too love everything pop culture and if given the chance to have met her I would have jumped at the chance as well.
April 28, 2024
CW
🟥 Kidnapping
🟥 Gun violence
🟥 Sexual harassment and groping
🟥 Cancer diagnosis and treatment
🟥 Trafficking
V is just about to start her freshman year of high school when everything takes a turn for the worse. Her best friend Emma doesn’t show up at school, which leads V on an investigative goose chase. When another incident in town happens, the teen can’t turn a blind eye, but between Emma’s disappearance and family stuff going on, she’s just trying to keep hope alive.
I wholeheartedly respect V’s confidence in her own abilities. Considering everything she is going through in a span of just a few weeks, I wouldn’t blame her for curling in on herself, especially at her age. However, her optimism about her friend is contagious, and even when you know the statistics aren’t in her favor, you can’t help but hope right along with her that everything will turn out for the better.
The pacing is quick and zany. It definitely feels like you’re in a 14-year-old’s mind in the best way. It meant I never had time to try and guess what V would do next, so I was always pleasantly surprised by the twists and turns the story takes. I was concerned for her at times because of the situations she ended up in, but that meant I connected with the character.
As a YA book, this skews toward the younger end of the reader base, which is part of why I have included the number of CWs I have. If you are a fan of mysteries that take a million turns before the end, this is a series to add to your TBR.
A Must-Read If You Like
🟧 Nancy Drew in any form
🟧 Riverdale’s unconventional plot twists
🟧 Veronica Mars (V is certainly inspired by her)
🟥 Kidnapping
🟥 Gun violence
🟥 Sexual harassment and groping
🟥 Cancer diagnosis and treatment
🟥 Trafficking
V is just about to start her freshman year of high school when everything takes a turn for the worse. Her best friend Emma doesn’t show up at school, which leads V on an investigative goose chase. When another incident in town happens, the teen can’t turn a blind eye, but between Emma’s disappearance and family stuff going on, she’s just trying to keep hope alive.
I wholeheartedly respect V’s confidence in her own abilities. Considering everything she is going through in a span of just a few weeks, I wouldn’t blame her for curling in on herself, especially at her age. However, her optimism about her friend is contagious, and even when you know the statistics aren’t in her favor, you can’t help but hope right along with her that everything will turn out for the better.
The pacing is quick and zany. It definitely feels like you’re in a 14-year-old’s mind in the best way. It meant I never had time to try and guess what V would do next, so I was always pleasantly surprised by the twists and turns the story takes. I was concerned for her at times because of the situations she ended up in, but that meant I connected with the character.
As a YA book, this skews toward the younger end of the reader base, which is part of why I have included the number of CWs I have. If you are a fan of mysteries that take a million turns before the end, this is a series to add to your TBR.
A Must-Read If You Like
🟧 Nancy Drew in any form
🟧 Riverdale’s unconventional plot twists
🟧 Veronica Mars (V is certainly inspired by her)
July 29, 2020
Excellent story! This mystery moved quickly but still had the elements of an excellent family drama. This girl moved from innocent determined friend to a young woman showing confidence in herself. Nicely done! Five stars!
July 29, 2020
Move over Veronica Mars because V is taking the spotlight!
Fans of Nancy Drew and Veronica Mars will love this story.
For this story flows well and keeps a good pace. I didn't want to put the book down. I stayed up all night to finish reading it. Loved every bit of it.
Fans of Nancy Drew and Veronica Mars will love this story.
For this story flows well and keeps a good pace. I didn't want to put the book down. I stayed up all night to finish reading it. Loved every bit of it.
July 28, 2020
Holy smokes
The suspense and tension made me finish reading this in one sitting. The pace was great. Well done to Ms. Laine for the debut of her YA series.
The suspense and tension made me finish reading this in one sitting. The pace was great. Well done to Ms. Laine for the debut of her YA series.
April 24, 2024
Violet’s freshman year of highschool is nothing like she expected when she is struck with back to back tragedies. She suddenly finds herself pulled between helping her mother who has been diagnosed with cancer and trying to cope with her best friend’s disappearance.
What an emotional rollercoaster! As if highschool isn't bad enough, the MC ends up having to deal with multiple life-changing incidents. The author does a fantastic job showing the plight of a young girl (14) being forced to grow up too quickly while still trying to hold on to some semblance of a “normal” girl her age.
I highly suggest the audio. I was not previously familiar with the narrator, Patricia Santamasso, but she does an excellent job capturing the MCs angsty youthfulness.
This is the first book that I have read from author Tasche Laine but I’m interested in checking out more of her work in the future.
I voluntarily listened to and reviewed an advanced copy of this audiobook. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
What an emotional rollercoaster! As if highschool isn't bad enough, the MC ends up having to deal with multiple life-changing incidents. The author does a fantastic job showing the plight of a young girl (14) being forced to grow up too quickly while still trying to hold on to some semblance of a “normal” girl her age.
I highly suggest the audio. I was not previously familiar with the narrator, Patricia Santamasso, but she does an excellent job capturing the MCs angsty youthfulness.
This is the first book that I have read from author Tasche Laine but I’m interested in checking out more of her work in the future.
I voluntarily listened to and reviewed an advanced copy of this audiobook. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 3, 2020
Real, raw, highly emotional story
This was a very intense and emotional story. I loved the references to Veronica Mars - one of my favourite shows growing up as well. I love how Violet is so fearless in her attempt to find her kidnapped friend. I was so shocked to read about all the details and horrors of kidnappings and sex trafficking that still occurs in our society. The story about V's mother battling breast cancer resonated with me as I experienced watching my dad suffer through the illness. All the emotions and thoughts from V felt so real. The story is so well written, I was drawn into the story and didn't want it end. It's not an easy story to read because it deals with so many difficult and challenging experiences - too much for a prepubescent teenager to experience. But these events are real and they are happening all around us. The author handles these difficult topics and weaves everything into the story so well, making it relatable as well. There are moments of humour as V describes some of her inner thoughts and her reactions, reminding us that she is still a kid after all even though she has had to deal with so many adult experiences in such a short time. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and looking forward to reading more about V's journey.
This was a very intense and emotional story. I loved the references to Veronica Mars - one of my favourite shows growing up as well. I love how Violet is so fearless in her attempt to find her kidnapped friend. I was so shocked to read about all the details and horrors of kidnappings and sex trafficking that still occurs in our society. The story about V's mother battling breast cancer resonated with me as I experienced watching my dad suffer through the illness. All the emotions and thoughts from V felt so real. The story is so well written, I was drawn into the story and didn't want it end. It's not an easy story to read because it deals with so many difficult and challenging experiences - too much for a prepubescent teenager to experience. But these events are real and they are happening all around us. The author handles these difficult topics and weaves everything into the story so well, making it relatable as well. There are moments of humour as V describes some of her inner thoughts and her reactions, reminding us that she is still a kid after all even though she has had to deal with so many adult experiences in such a short time. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and looking forward to reading more about V's journey.
April 7, 2023
Glass Stars is a gripping, raw, emotional, realistic, educational, and mysterious book! This story is recommended for ages fourteen to eighteen, however I would recommend it to readers over the age of eighteen as well. This fictional book is from the viewpoint of Violet better known as V. This teen is anxious about her first day of high school. When the day comes, things are worse than she could have dreamed. V's best friend is kidnapped, her mother is diagnosed with cancer, and she has to enter high school for the first time. Violet is a captivating and fiesty character fighting for the people she loves no matter what. This book beautifully portrays the heartbreak, hope, challenges, grief, and confusion that come with the cancer diagnosis of a loved one. It also teaches teens about the reality of the sex trafficking industry and kidnapping. Throughout the story we watch V stumble, triumph, laugh, cry, and make many mistakes. It truly feels like this girl has the weight of the world on her shoulders yet somehow does not give up. After some teen detective work V is able to find her missing best friend. How her friend struggles to heal from human trafficking and her mother's cancer journey are continued in book two Bright Stars which I highly recommend!
August 11, 2024
This book was such a fun read. I am an adult but I really enjoyed it. I will say it seemed a bit unrealistic in how the main character, V, could sneak away from school and interrupt police investigation to find her best friend. But it is fiction and meant to be for young readers, and was inspired by the show Veronica Mars. Overall, it is a good book with laughable moments and then moments very serious. I feel like there was a lot going on, with random characters mentioned when V went to find her friend, which felt like a lot of mini-stories being thrown in next to the major plot, but it was a fun read and I do recommend to young teens and adults alike who enjoy a thriller and some mystery.
TW (if needed): There are mentions of abduction/kidnapping, and some physical abuse and gun violence.
TW (if needed): There are mentions of abduction/kidnapping, and some physical abuse and gun violence.
January 24, 2021
Fourteen-year-old freshman Violet “V” Jiménez's best friend, Emma, is kidnapped. V vows to find Emma at any cost. Then her mother is diagnosed with cancer. She discovers a link to another missing girl, her investigation takes her on an alarming ride deep inside a criminal enterprise.
A lot goes on in this story. Kidnapping and Violet's mother is dying of cancer. One of those plot elements would have been terrifying, yet the reader is presented with two. I agree with the description of the book, "V" is like Veronica Mars, one of my favorite characters. Great read because of the main character.
A lot goes on in this story. Kidnapping and Violet's mother is dying of cancer. One of those plot elements would have been terrifying, yet the reader is presented with two. I agree with the description of the book, "V" is like Veronica Mars, one of my favorite characters. Great read because of the main character.
September 4, 2020
I received an ARC of this book from Book Sirens in exchange for my honest opinion.
Glass Stars follows Violet “V”, through the first couple months of her freshman year as she searches for her best friend who goes missing on the first day of school. V’s favorite TV show is Veronica Mars so she’s constantly asking herself what Veronica would do in the situation. She also has to deal with her mom’s medical diagnosis, which adds another layer of stress and drama to her life.
What I liked about the book:
- It is set in Orange, CA and Portland, OR. My sister lives near Orange and my best friend grew up there, so I recognized places which made me feel nostalgic for time with my best friend. I’ve also been to Portland a few times, so part of those descriptions were familiar.
- Short chapters keep me turning pages and give me a big feeling of accomplishment each time I read
- The author tackled a tough topic in a way appropriate for YA (human trafficking)
What I didn’t like about the book:
- There were too many things packed into this book. The friend’s disappearance and mom’s medical diagnosis would have been enough drama, but in Portland, V finds herself in a lot of sticky situations.
- V is only 14 but she takes on the role of detective which leads to those sticky situations. Many of them were unrealistic, especially for a young teen.
Glass Stars follows Violet “V”, through the first couple months of her freshman year as she searches for her best friend who goes missing on the first day of school. V’s favorite TV show is Veronica Mars so she’s constantly asking herself what Veronica would do in the situation. She also has to deal with her mom’s medical diagnosis, which adds another layer of stress and drama to her life.
What I liked about the book:
- It is set in Orange, CA and Portland, OR. My sister lives near Orange and my best friend grew up there, so I recognized places which made me feel nostalgic for time with my best friend. I’ve also been to Portland a few times, so part of those descriptions were familiar.
- Short chapters keep me turning pages and give me a big feeling of accomplishment each time I read
- The author tackled a tough topic in a way appropriate for YA (human trafficking)
What I didn’t like about the book:
- There were too many things packed into this book. The friend’s disappearance and mom’s medical diagnosis would have been enough drama, but in Portland, V finds herself in a lot of sticky situations.
- V is only 14 but she takes on the role of detective which leads to those sticky situations. Many of them were unrealistic, especially for a young teen.
April 18, 2024
5/5 ⭐
0/5 🌶️
5/5 🎧
This isn't my normal genre, but I was able to listen to an early copy of the audiobook and after seeing the description I jumped at the chance. This was a heartbreaking, fun and exciting tale of a young girl taking things into her own hands when her friend goes missing. She's fourteen, so I'm excusing all the not so smart moves she made (um, hello! that trip to Portland?! as a mom I about unalived thinking of my baby in that situation), but I loved her courage and tenacity, especially while facing her mother's illness.
The fact that V is not only obsessed with Veronica Mars, but also embodies her was a huge plus for me. I also adore VMars and that comparison is what drew me to branch out from my normal adult romances to read this book. I thought Tasche did a wonderful job of bringing Veronica Mars into the story and heavily, without it being over the top and obnoxious. Her writing was really beautiful and I absolutely loved the story.
Tasche's note at the end about broke my heart though... I was so happy Emma and Riley's stories ended up differently than her friends...
The audio was fantastic. This was my first time listening to Patricia Santomasso but it certainly won't be my last if I can help it. She did such a wonderful job playing V and these characters.
0/5 🌶️
5/5 🎧
This isn't my normal genre, but I was able to listen to an early copy of the audiobook and after seeing the description I jumped at the chance. This was a heartbreaking, fun and exciting tale of a young girl taking things into her own hands when her friend goes missing. She's fourteen, so I'm excusing all the not so smart moves she made (um, hello! that trip to Portland?! as a mom I about unalived thinking of my baby in that situation), but I loved her courage and tenacity, especially while facing her mother's illness.
The fact that V is not only obsessed with Veronica Mars, but also embodies her was a huge plus for me. I also adore VMars and that comparison is what drew me to branch out from my normal adult romances to read this book. I thought Tasche did a wonderful job of bringing Veronica Mars into the story and heavily, without it being over the top and obnoxious. Her writing was really beautiful and I absolutely loved the story.
Tasche's note at the end about broke my heart though... I was so happy Emma and Riley's stories ended up differently than her friends...
The audio was fantastic. This was my first time listening to Patricia Santomasso but it certainly won't be my last if I can help it. She did such a wonderful job playing V and these characters.
July 27, 2020
Glass Stars follows 14-year old Violet ("V") Jimenez during what could arguably be one of the worst first days of high school ever. Her parents are two of the most popular teachers at the school, her best friend goes missing, and her mom is diagnosed with cancer.
V is very determined to make sure her friend is found. As only a teenager can do, she pushes head-first into the investigation using her idol Kristen Bell's "Veronica Mars" character as her inspiration.
The book is well written and you are drawn into the story right away. I spent this entire book rooting for V to succeed. My one issue with the book is that the focus keeps shifting from this mystery to other things. Otherwise, I really liked the book and would definitely recommend it.
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DISCLAIMER: I received an advance reader copy of this book provided by the author in exchange for a fair, objective, and honest review.
V is very determined to make sure her friend is found. As only a teenager can do, she pushes head-first into the investigation using her idol Kristen Bell's "Veronica Mars" character as her inspiration.
The book is well written and you are drawn into the story right away. I spent this entire book rooting for V to succeed. My one issue with the book is that the focus keeps shifting from this mystery to other things. Otherwise, I really liked the book and would definitely recommend it.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DISCLAIMER: I received an advance reader copy of this book provided by the author in exchange for a fair, objective, and honest review.
August 4, 2020
This book has two storylines - one with V’s missing best friend and one with V’s mothers illness - that somehow needed separation. The flow between the two was not seamless and sometimes I lost my way in the story. I felt connected to V almost immediately but I think I needed more back story on Emma in the beginning to build a bond with her as well. There was also a big storyline jump when V goes to Portland to look for Emma that completely changed the feel of the story. The first half was regular school and home but then in Portland it took a very dark turn almost unexpectedly. Also I would have loved to hear the entire story about the glass stars without having to look it up separately. On the good side, the language of the book was spot on for young readers and was easy to read. And I absolutely love that the author is using this platform to bring to light a very important social issue and I hope there are more authors willing to do this as well.
July 14, 2020
Thank you to Tasche Laine and BookSirens for the opportunity to receive an Advanced Review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Overall I enjoyed this solid young adult novel about Violet "V" and her misadventures as she begins high school. She has to deal with a family health crisis and the disturbing disappearance of her best friend, while also coping with freshman year.
The story is compelling, the emotions real, the ending is surprising. Definitely an enjoyable read. The narrative is mostly first-person, from Violet's perspective and when she is speaking, it reads like a teenager is telling the story.
This book covers several heavy themes, so it would be most appropriate for more mature teenagers and young adults.
Overall I enjoyed this solid young adult novel about Violet "V" and her misadventures as she begins high school. She has to deal with a family health crisis and the disturbing disappearance of her best friend, while also coping with freshman year.
The story is compelling, the emotions real, the ending is surprising. Definitely an enjoyable read. The narrative is mostly first-person, from Violet's perspective and when she is speaking, it reads like a teenager is telling the story.
This book covers several heavy themes, so it would be most appropriate for more mature teenagers and young adults.
August 20, 2020
This author always delivers a great read and this is no exception. It is a heartbreaking, heartwarming, tense, and well-written book about real, serious issues but with a touch of humour thrown in. The characters are very relatable, and although I don’t qualify as a YA reader, I did recognise a lot of my 14-year-old in this book—although thankfully she hasn’t had to deal with all these issues. V has not only to deal with the problems associated with adjusting to high school (I know how tough that can be) but also her mother’s illness and the disappearance of her best friend. It’s a book about relationships, resilience, and coping. I highly recommend it.
November 6, 2020
Thanks to BookSirens and the publisher for a free e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed this young adult mystery about Violet, a teenage girl whose best friend goes missing on the first day of high school. It definitely had Veronica Mars vibes, and the funny thing is that teenage TV investigator Veronica Mars happens to be one of V's idols. Intertwined into the mystery of her friend's disappearance are family issues and the usual angst of a young girl at the crossroads between childhood and young adulthood. Although I felt like the ending was a bit too contrived, I would read another book about V and her family.
I enjoyed this young adult mystery about Violet, a teenage girl whose best friend goes missing on the first day of high school. It definitely had Veronica Mars vibes, and the funny thing is that teenage TV investigator Veronica Mars happens to be one of V's idols. Intertwined into the mystery of her friend's disappearance are family issues and the usual angst of a young girl at the crossroads between childhood and young adulthood. Although I felt like the ending was a bit too contrived, I would read another book about V and her family.
February 26, 2022
I loved Glass Stars! I wouldn't change a word in it. It was touching, brought tears to my eyes and made me laugh. V's family is very close, so close they are teachers at the high school she attends. Her younger brother is a sweet boy who loves them all as if they were his true family.
When V's friend Emma goes missing, V channels her favorite detective and goes on the search for Emma. The police aren't doing much of another girl who was abducted after Emma. V has had her fill and she goes super sleuth.
I won't tell you anymore, I will just say it's a fast paced fun book you will enjoy reading.
I received this book as an ARC from the author and I will be buying more of her books.
When V's friend Emma goes missing, V channels her favorite detective and goes on the search for Emma. The police aren't doing much of another girl who was abducted after Emma. V has had her fill and she goes super sleuth.
I won't tell you anymore, I will just say it's a fast paced fun book you will enjoy reading.
I received this book as an ARC from the author and I will be buying more of her books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 22, 2022
This story was all too real for me, in a secondhand way. When I lived in the Kansas City metro in the early ‘80’s, a young woman was abducted during daylight hours from the parking lot of a mall (like one of the very minor characters in this story). My close worker’s roommate found the body during a police search; another victim’s body was found close by. In addition to families and friends, these atrocities DO affect communities – and for a long time.
Counseling is soooo important to help guide us through tragedies. The teens were dealing with a lot of heavy stuff…
Counseling is soooo important to help guide us through tragedies. The teens were dealing with a lot of heavy stuff…
August 16, 2020
Contentious issues cleverly addressed
This book has it all - sex trafficking, cancer, homelessness, poverty, and counselling. It’s a wealthy mixed bag of hard and fast issues peppered within a YA setting. In that regard, this is no ordinary YA. Readers will enjoy the richness of diversity, and feel uncomfortable with the hard truths portrayed, all while enjoying a fabulous story by a great storyteller.
This book has it all - sex trafficking, cancer, homelessness, poverty, and counselling. It’s a wealthy mixed bag of hard and fast issues peppered within a YA setting. In that regard, this is no ordinary YA. Readers will enjoy the richness of diversity, and feel uncomfortable with the hard truths portrayed, all while enjoying a fabulous story by a great storyteller.
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