Seasons Change: A Young Adult Novel

by Natalie Gould

For the longest time, I overlooked the fact that I had a life before Jamey Russo. He became such an integral part of my world for so many years that I forgot what life was like before he existed…at least before he existed for me. I’d managed to survive pre-Jamey for thirteen years. When that thought initially occurred to me, I was astonished. It was equivalent to an unexpected slap across the face. It was startling because I let myself overlook this reality for an incredibly long and, in my opinion, inexcusable amount of time.
I met Jamey the summer before we both entered ninth grade. He was a running back for the junior varsity football team, and I had just made the cheerleading squad. The cheerleaders practiced across from the expansive, rectangular football field. Lomonco Creek took football very seriously. The stadium was larger than most and could hold up to 30,000 fans. A huge gold banner soared over the underpass that led from the gymnasium to the field with the team's logo spread across it: a black stallion with ivory paws and ears and a solid gold tail. The bleachers were painted royal blue with the words "Rosevalley Stallions" in gilded print.

410 pages, Paperback

Published December 18, 2023

Reviews

[Lauren McNeill · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is full of rich characterizations and setting—Rosevalley and Lomonoco Creek feel like places I could walk right into; it is hard to remember that they are products of the author’s imagination! The characters are complex and realistic…I love when I am not quite sure if I should be rooting for a character or not, and never have I felt more like this than with Jamey Russo. The protagonist, Jessica Calabresi, is a strong female that any young girl could look up to, and her emotional journey from childhood to college is full of challenges and relatable high school horrors. The supporting characters are fully realized and interesting and create dynamics that make this novel un-put-down able. I loved this book and will be watching Natalie Gould for more publications—adding her to my list of favorite authors! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Seasons Change by Natalie Gould
This coming-of-age story is marketed as young adult, but the story transcends age. This is a book that will appeal to readers of all ages.
What worked:
1. I loved Jessica. I found myself rooting for her from the beginning, despite the fact that she made choices I didn’t always agree with.
2. Jessica’s friends were mostly supportive. It’s refreshing when books depict healthy female friendships.
3. The teenagers in the story faced realistic limitations. Jessica’s choices were often hampered by either family or peer pressure.
4. I loved Jessica’s family, though I often found her father aggravating. This is a testament to the excellent writing of the novel.
6. Jamey was a character who the reader actively rooted against, while also hoping he could make Jessica happy.
I found the portrayal of anxiety particularly poignant. I liked that her family and friends were so supportive of her, while also allowing her to grow and change.
Overall, I highly recommend this book.

[Andrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn't put this book down! The characters are relatable and deal with very real life situations. So many surprises that evoked many emotions, especially with the characters! I loved Bobby's development in the first half of the story and now have to think more deeply about him! I am left wondering about Kayla's situation and feel hurt for her as she must be dealing with so much personally. I love when a book really makes me think deeply , challenging me to look at situations from other perspectives. Our book club has just read this book and I can't wait to discuss it with our group! Looking forward to Natalie Gould's next book!!

[Lauren McNeill · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was not my first reading of this book, but I felt compelled to write again. Reading Seasons Change for the second time, already knowing what was to come, I felt much as though I was watching a movie whereupon the second viewing, it is just as enjoyable to see if you can pick up on subtle hints and actions. I can say that already knowing what to expect did not diminish my enjoyment at all and I felt like I could really lean into studying the characters and seeing behaviors I had not picked up on initially. Such a great book.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was recommended to me, and I am glad I stepped outside of my typical book choices and read this! It looks dense but the story was so interesting that it sucked me in and ended up being a quick read, which for me is unusual. It brought me back to my high school days and made me think a lot about how a lot of the characters reminded me of friends I had at that time. I would definitely read another book by this author.

[Rande Goodwin · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very well written YA coming of age story! Season's Change follows Jessica, a smart and popular high schooler, through the ups and downs of teenage life as she deals with family, friends and an on-again, off-again relationship with Jamey, the possessive football player whose obsession with her knows no bounds. The characters and story are well developed and the writing style straight forward and easy to read. A great book. I really liked the uplifting ending!

[Vini · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. The characters were well-developed and multi-dimensional. I could identify with the main character’s struggles throughout the novel. I hoping there will be a sequel. I can’t wait to read more of Natalie Gould’s books.

[Regina Maslott-Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

You are easily pulled in to the lives of each character and eager to find out what happens next! This was an amazing read and the author’s knack for relying you in is nothing short of impeccable. I highly recommend it!!

[Pete · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was phenomenal. This author really understands the issues teenagers face in today’s world. I highly recommend for all age groups.