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Fugitive Rifts
Does everyone have secrets?
When four teens are invited to meet after school with a teacher, the butterfly effect of this one small event soon changes their dreams about their futures. Thrown together to form, of all things, a debate team, the four—Grace, a popular star basketball player, Drew, a privileged hotshot, Ollie, an artistic new student, and Dottie a shy, brilliant loner—seem to have nothing in common. And not one of them believes they have what it takes to be successful debaters.
Over time, the four teens start helping each other through tough times and begin to realize they are more alike than they thought.
Taking part in a public debate turns out to have unintended consequences that affect the four teens, each in different ways. Then the disappearance of one upends not only the lives of the four teens, but it also creates a ripple effect that shapes, over time, what happens to other people from their communities, their country—and even the world.
Fugitive Rifts is a compelling and empowering story of coming of age, resilience, and friendship, with emotional passages that are authentic, visceral, and bring the characters to life.
When four teens are invited to meet after school with a teacher, the butterfly effect of this one small event soon changes their dreams about their futures. Thrown together to form, of all things, a debate team, the four—Grace, a popular star basketball player, Drew, a privileged hotshot, Ollie, an artistic new student, and Dottie a shy, brilliant loner—seem to have nothing in common. And not one of them believes they have what it takes to be successful debaters.
Over time, the four teens start helping each other through tough times and begin to realize they are more alike than they thought.
Taking part in a public debate turns out to have unintended consequences that affect the four teens, each in different ways. Then the disappearance of one upends not only the lives of the four teens, but it also creates a ripple effect that shapes, over time, what happens to other people from their communities, their country—and even the world.
Fugitive Rifts is a compelling and empowering story of coming of age, resilience, and friendship, with emotional passages that are authentic, visceral, and bring the characters to life.
384 pages, Hardcover
Published July 30, 2025
4 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
February 16, 2026
This is a story about four teenagers: Grace, Drew, Ollie, and Dottie who come together as part of a debate team and form an unlikely bond. Each of them carries personal wounds: family pressures, displacement, trauma, neurodivergence, and the quiet ache of not belonging. Their debates about climate change, responsibility, and survival mirror the deeper emotional rifts in their own lives. The novel’s near-future setting, shaped by environmental instability and “fugitive rifts” in the land makes it a great read.
The teenagers feel real. They are flawed, defensive, passionate, and vulnerable in ways that ring true. Dottie, in particular, stands out as a compelling portrayal of a highly intelligent but socially anxious teen, while Grace’s struggle between ambition and loyalty adds emotional weight to the story. Drew’s bravado masking deeper family dysfunction, and Ollie’s quiet wisdom shaped by displacement and loss, round out a cast that feels authentically human.
The environmental elements are woven into the characters’ lives and conversations in a way that feels organic. The debate scenes are especially engaging, offering a smart way to explore differing perspectives on climate change, profit, and responsibility without flattening the complexity of the issues.
Fugitive Rifts is well worth your time. I had a great time reading this book. I strongly recommend it to my fellow readers.
The teenagers feel real. They are flawed, defensive, passionate, and vulnerable in ways that ring true. Dottie, in particular, stands out as a compelling portrayal of a highly intelligent but socially anxious teen, while Grace’s struggle between ambition and loyalty adds emotional weight to the story. Drew’s bravado masking deeper family dysfunction, and Ollie’s quiet wisdom shaped by displacement and loss, round out a cast that feels authentically human.
The environmental elements are woven into the characters’ lives and conversations in a way that feels organic. The debate scenes are especially engaging, offering a smart way to explore differing perspectives on climate change, profit, and responsibility without flattening the complexity of the issues.
Fugitive Rifts is well worth your time. I had a great time reading this book. I strongly recommend it to my fellow readers.
July 23, 2025
"This novel explores connections between a group of young adults as they grow into their lives. The story has them tackle today's issues into solveable answers like unhouse people, human trafficking and intimate partner violence. It also has these young people examine their own issues of family violence, loss of family members, loss of their own dreams with re-direction to new possibilities in a positive way.
I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the four main characters and was inspired by their growth. I found the unhouse characters interesting and redeeming as many of them grew into their own life solutions.
The catastrophe that occurs has long been predicted. How it is handled by different people shows the diversity of people challenged with life or death.
I would read another book by this author."
I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the four main characters and was inspired by their growth. I found the unhouse characters interesting and redeeming as many of them grew into their own life solutions.
The catastrophe that occurs has long been predicted. How it is handled by different people shows the diversity of people challenged with life or death.
I would read another book by this author."
August 17, 2025
'Fugitive Rifts' is very different from A-M Mawhiney's usual writing. It stunned me to see her move so seamlessly from the wonderful and unique dystopian series I've read to a coming-of-age book centered around 4 main characters.
Mind you, Fugitive Rifts is not your usual coming of age story focused on teenage rivalries and inane romance. Instead, you have 4 characters who deal with their own angst and pain silently at first and then with the aid of their friends. The novel touches on genuine issues that impact teenagers. Whether it is domestic violence, misunderstandings, lack of parental support, homelessness, injuries etc. The character arcs are unhypocritical and flow so naturally, taking the story along.
Then there are some surprising connections between the characters which the reader might have never envisaged, and they bring along some nice twists to an already engaging story. It goes on to show us that the world is a much smaller place than we believe and divergent lives can often be intertwined in ways we never imagined.
The author demonstrates that family is important but Fugitive Rifts also brings out the significance of friendship and how life altering it can be. Teens uniting for a common cause can come from disparate backgrounds, be indifferent to each other and even dislike each other but coming together, working together, listening to each other, being there for each other can forge friendships that carry for life, that can change lives. She shows us that people are not flawless. That adults can make mistakes; fail the children they care about but might still be deserving of forgiveness. The author shows us that to be human means to make mistakes, but it also means trying to make up for them,
The most wonderful thing about A-M Mawhiney is she truly cares about change, about issues that impact us. And she always uses her stories to highlight causes that are dear to her and will benefit from having the spotlight cast upon them. So, in Fugitive Rifts she brings out the helplessness of the homeless. We often think of them as nothing more than a burden to society and turn away from them, eager to move on with our lives thinking that they are the government's problem. But the author shows us how a handful of thoughtful individuals with open minds and caring hearts can turn things around for the homeless. The author effectively brings home the fact (pun unintended) that the homeless are not eyesores, but they are people who once had lives, had families but through unlucky circumstances or misfortune lost it all. They are deserving of a second chance if we are willing to lend them a helping hand. I admire how deeply A-M Mawhiney introspects on issues delving to the heart of the matter rather than appeasing her conscience with superficial brushstrokes.
Then of course there is the Earth, climate change and our ignorance of how our thoughtless actions are impacting this planet which we care about so much. This is a concern that the author calls attention to in every book she writes, and it is abundantly clear that she cares deeply about our planet. May there be more like her.
All in all, Fugitive Rifts is a must read, like every book by this author because she is thoughtful, has a distinctive mindset and her stories always carry a deep message while being appealing. Don't miss this one. Fugitive Rifts is a story with a message, but it at heart a story about friendship and second chances.
Mind you, Fugitive Rifts is not your usual coming of age story focused on teenage rivalries and inane romance. Instead, you have 4 characters who deal with their own angst and pain silently at first and then with the aid of their friends. The novel touches on genuine issues that impact teenagers. Whether it is domestic violence, misunderstandings, lack of parental support, homelessness, injuries etc. The character arcs are unhypocritical and flow so naturally, taking the story along.
Then there are some surprising connections between the characters which the reader might have never envisaged, and they bring along some nice twists to an already engaging story. It goes on to show us that the world is a much smaller place than we believe and divergent lives can often be intertwined in ways we never imagined.
The author demonstrates that family is important but Fugitive Rifts also brings out the significance of friendship and how life altering it can be. Teens uniting for a common cause can come from disparate backgrounds, be indifferent to each other and even dislike each other but coming together, working together, listening to each other, being there for each other can forge friendships that carry for life, that can change lives. She shows us that people are not flawless. That adults can make mistakes; fail the children they care about but might still be deserving of forgiveness. The author shows us that to be human means to make mistakes, but it also means trying to make up for them,
The most wonderful thing about A-M Mawhiney is she truly cares about change, about issues that impact us. And she always uses her stories to highlight causes that are dear to her and will benefit from having the spotlight cast upon them. So, in Fugitive Rifts she brings out the helplessness of the homeless. We often think of them as nothing more than a burden to society and turn away from them, eager to move on with our lives thinking that they are the government's problem. But the author shows us how a handful of thoughtful individuals with open minds and caring hearts can turn things around for the homeless. The author effectively brings home the fact (pun unintended) that the homeless are not eyesores, but they are people who once had lives, had families but through unlucky circumstances or misfortune lost it all. They are deserving of a second chance if we are willing to lend them a helping hand. I admire how deeply A-M Mawhiney introspects on issues delving to the heart of the matter rather than appeasing her conscience with superficial brushstrokes.
Then of course there is the Earth, climate change and our ignorance of how our thoughtless actions are impacting this planet which we care about so much. This is a concern that the author calls attention to in every book she writes, and it is abundantly clear that she cares deeply about our planet. May there be more like her.
All in all, Fugitive Rifts is a must read, like every book by this author because she is thoughtful, has a distinctive mindset and her stories always carry a deep message while being appealing. Don't miss this one. Fugitive Rifts is a story with a message, but it at heart a story about friendship and second chances.
July 25, 2025
This book celebrates the kind of friendship all of us dream of experiencing and which, if given a chance to experience, we would cherish all through our lives. True friendship, like true love, according to Erich Fromm, is based on care, responsibility, respect, and knowledge. Such a powerful bond goes far deeper than chatting, sharing secrets and going to the movies. It can help people change their lives for the better, make more fulfilling choices and reach unimaginable heights. In “Fugitive Rifts”, friendship, in a way, helps save a part of the world and change the fates of people in the future.
Four young people, on the cusp of entering adulthood, struggle with things that can easily break even a grown-up person. They carry their secrets like armour, believing that sharing their problems would show them as weak and make them vulnerable.
Grace is strong and focused on her goal. She is a perfect athlete. It seems that in life, she will be as unstoppable as on the basketball field.
Drew is a ‘golden boy.’ He comes from a rich family, and his faith that the world belongs to him shows in every step of his confident swagger. Yet, a sinister truth is hidden beneath his confident façade.
Ollie is easy-going and perceptive. He appears to be a perfect mediator who is capable of smoothing any argument and making people do what he thinks will lead them to an understanding. But who will help Ollie to deal with the past grief and present tragedy that hangs over his head like a sword of Damocles?
Dottie’s IQ of a scientist is well hidden behind shyness and constant fidgeting. Still, her intelligence is by far a more innocent thing the girl in nerdy glasses is forced to hide.
This book made me smile. Both with a sad recognition of the experiences I’d prefer to forget, and the joy that different scenarios are possible. This book also made me cry. Over the things that might have happened but hadn’t. And over the realisation that nothing can be done to change it. Yet, ultimately, this book has left me with hope filling my soul and making it soar. The story reminded me that no matter how grim the paths we are forced to tread in our lives might be at some point, there is always a chance that bright sunshine is waiting for you around the bend.
“Fugitive Rifts” by A-M Mawhiney tells the story where each reader will find something it was important for them to see. It tackles the topics many of us find urgent, while those in charge prefer to divert our attention to something more likely to bring them political points. I appreciated a fresh, sensible take on the climate change and homeless people problems. Too often we get trapped in the race of our own lives – which only seldom are problem-free – and stay blind to other people’s struggles. Even though, if only we pulled our gazes away from seeking the light ahead in our personal tunnel, we could do something to change the world for the better. For, after all, it doesn’t always take a huge effort to help someone, while the result of a feasible endeavour can surpass any expectations.
Four young people, on the cusp of entering adulthood, struggle with things that can easily break even a grown-up person. They carry their secrets like armour, believing that sharing their problems would show them as weak and make them vulnerable.
Grace is strong and focused on her goal. She is a perfect athlete. It seems that in life, she will be as unstoppable as on the basketball field.
Drew is a ‘golden boy.’ He comes from a rich family, and his faith that the world belongs to him shows in every step of his confident swagger. Yet, a sinister truth is hidden beneath his confident façade.
Ollie is easy-going and perceptive. He appears to be a perfect mediator who is capable of smoothing any argument and making people do what he thinks will lead them to an understanding. But who will help Ollie to deal with the past grief and present tragedy that hangs over his head like a sword of Damocles?
Dottie’s IQ of a scientist is well hidden behind shyness and constant fidgeting. Still, her intelligence is by far a more innocent thing the girl in nerdy glasses is forced to hide.
This book made me smile. Both with a sad recognition of the experiences I’d prefer to forget, and the joy that different scenarios are possible. This book also made me cry. Over the things that might have happened but hadn’t. And over the realisation that nothing can be done to change it. Yet, ultimately, this book has left me with hope filling my soul and making it soar. The story reminded me that no matter how grim the paths we are forced to tread in our lives might be at some point, there is always a chance that bright sunshine is waiting for you around the bend.
“Fugitive Rifts” by A-M Mawhiney tells the story where each reader will find something it was important for them to see. It tackles the topics many of us find urgent, while those in charge prefer to divert our attention to something more likely to bring them political points. I appreciated a fresh, sensible take on the climate change and homeless people problems. Too often we get trapped in the race of our own lives – which only seldom are problem-free – and stay blind to other people’s struggles. Even though, if only we pulled our gazes away from seeking the light ahead in our personal tunnel, we could do something to change the world for the better. For, after all, it doesn’t always take a huge effort to help someone, while the result of a feasible endeavour can surpass any expectations.
August 14, 2025
An uplifting character driven tale that highlights the importance of friendship
Fugitive Rifts is an uplifting character driven tale that highlights the importance of friendship and using it as a vessel to care for others. Four students from different backgrounds and with very different personalities are put together in a debate team and what follows is a journey that delves into each of their lives and really nails the value of togetherness.
From their initial classroom meeting to a team building style camping trip all the way to a few years after – we follow the lives of ‘Grace’, ‘Drew’, ‘Ollie’ and ‘Dottie’ who all have individual talents and challenges in life. From a star athlete to the privileged one and more- each of them bring a unique type of contribution and outlook to the team while in theory their contrasts shouldn’t really work in terms of cohesion but the story A-M Mawhiney has created allows their friendship to eventually blossom.
The wonderful message within is the concept of this group all finding their way in life by relying on each other as friends while doing their best to help others. Beneath their exteriors are individual struggles with the likes of abusive parents and even homelessness which are just some of the important themes found in the story and their experiences with such allows them to know exactly how to help others which is exactly what they set out to do. An inspirational coming-of-age reading experience that’s incredibly well-written.
‘Even out of such a horrible disaster as a megathrust earthquake lives can be positively transformed, if people care.’
Fugitive Rifts is an uplifting character driven tale that highlights the importance of friendship and using it as a vessel to care for others. Four students from different backgrounds and with very different personalities are put together in a debate team and what follows is a journey that delves into each of their lives and really nails the value of togetherness.
From their initial classroom meeting to a team building style camping trip all the way to a few years after – we follow the lives of ‘Grace’, ‘Drew’, ‘Ollie’ and ‘Dottie’ who all have individual talents and challenges in life. From a star athlete to the privileged one and more- each of them bring a unique type of contribution and outlook to the team while in theory their contrasts shouldn’t really work in terms of cohesion but the story A-M Mawhiney has created allows their friendship to eventually blossom.
The wonderful message within is the concept of this group all finding their way in life by relying on each other as friends while doing their best to help others. Beneath their exteriors are individual struggles with the likes of abusive parents and even homelessness which are just some of the important themes found in the story and their experiences with such allows them to know exactly how to help others which is exactly what they set out to do. An inspirational coming-of-age reading experience that’s incredibly well-written.
‘Even out of such a horrible disaster as a megathrust earthquake lives can be positively transformed, if people care.’
August 14, 2025
Fugitive Rifts by A-M Mawhiney tells the story of four teens from different walks of life who form enduring friendships and find their way to their goals. On another level, it presents a paradigm for a way of embracing the world, one that draws all those it encounters together, and can perhaps transform the world. The last section recreates the crux of the story in mythic terms, reflecting on the breakdown of the planet through human mismanagement as well the possibilities for renewal, drawing the themes deeper into a universal perspective.
There are many serendipitous moments in this novel, perhaps too many for “real” life, so many happy coincidences that might not happen in your life or mine. The dialogue is, in some instances, a little more polished than that of some teens. But these enrich the story, for the accomplishment here is to present, through fiction, all that is possible when we receive the world with an open heart, when we look upon one another and see all that they and we can be.
The evolution of each character is done with sensitivity and compassion; I looked forward to reading more, to see what each had learned, to see how others in their growing circle began to shine. For me, the character of Luke, who appeared so briefly, is the one that touches me most, in all his sorrow, dignity, and serenity—an impactful delivery.
Overall, it is a story of hope, of all we can be. A story for our time and for all time.
There are many serendipitous moments in this novel, perhaps too many for “real” life, so many happy coincidences that might not happen in your life or mine. The dialogue is, in some instances, a little more polished than that of some teens. But these enrich the story, for the accomplishment here is to present, through fiction, all that is possible when we receive the world with an open heart, when we look upon one another and see all that they and we can be.
The evolution of each character is done with sensitivity and compassion; I looked forward to reading more, to see what each had learned, to see how others in their growing circle began to shine. For me, the character of Luke, who appeared so briefly, is the one that touches me most, in all his sorrow, dignity, and serenity—an impactful delivery.
Overall, it is a story of hope, of all we can be. A story for our time and for all time.
February 23, 2026
The Review
This is such a powerful, heartfelt read. The balance the author finds in giving these characters the time to bring their own unique perspectives and viewpoints to the narrative while also highlighting their own personal struggles was rich and powerful to read, and the engaging debates the characters have with one another really pushes the reader’s knowledge and brings to life real-world struggles and hardship that needs to be highlighted more.
The heart of this narrative is in the strong themes and character arcs this coming of age narrative puts on the page. The struggles of the characters reflect these themes, such as domestic violence, homelessness, and parental hardship, and the subtle tension that runs through this narrative helps keep readers on the edge of their seat and engaged in the lives these characters lead.
The Verdict
Insightful, emotionally-driven, and compelling, author A-M Mawhiney’s “Fugitive Rifts” is a must-read coming of age novel. The twists and turns the story takes, the heartfelt connection readers make to these characters, and the memorable events that drive them closer together will stay with readers long after the narrative ends.
This is such a powerful, heartfelt read. The balance the author finds in giving these characters the time to bring their own unique perspectives and viewpoints to the narrative while also highlighting their own personal struggles was rich and powerful to read, and the engaging debates the characters have with one another really pushes the reader’s knowledge and brings to life real-world struggles and hardship that needs to be highlighted more.
The heart of this narrative is in the strong themes and character arcs this coming of age narrative puts on the page. The struggles of the characters reflect these themes, such as domestic violence, homelessness, and parental hardship, and the subtle tension that runs through this narrative helps keep readers on the edge of their seat and engaged in the lives these characters lead.
The Verdict
Insightful, emotionally-driven, and compelling, author A-M Mawhiney’s “Fugitive Rifts” is a must-read coming of age novel. The twists and turns the story takes, the heartfelt connection readers make to these characters, and the memorable events that drive them closer together will stay with readers long after the narrative ends.
July 30, 2025
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Canada's west coast, Fugitive Rifts delivers a sensory experience that immerses readers in one of the country's most stunning landscapes. The author’s vivid, descriptive prose brings the natural world to life, making it a living, breathing character.
The novel's greatest strength lies in its characterization of four young adults whose lives intersect through an unlikely catalyst: a high school debate team. What begins as a story of opposing students forced together evolves into something more profound. Each character is crafted with authenticity and depth, becoming individuals readers can genuinely connect with and understand.
The author weaves together a series of compelling, contemporary events that challenge each character in meaningful ways.
Fugitive Rifts succeeds as an engaging story on our place in the world. The novel prompted me to pause and seriously consider my own role in our ecosystem and how I choose to live my life on this vulnerable planet.
The novel's greatest strength lies in its characterization of four young adults whose lives intersect through an unlikely catalyst: a high school debate team. What begins as a story of opposing students forced together evolves into something more profound. Each character is crafted with authenticity and depth, becoming individuals readers can genuinely connect with and understand.
The author weaves together a series of compelling, contemporary events that challenge each character in meaningful ways.
Fugitive Rifts succeeds as an engaging story on our place in the world. The novel prompted me to pause and seriously consider my own role in our ecosystem and how I choose to live my life on this vulnerable planet.
August 18, 2025
Fugitive Rifts is an excellent book. I had trouble putting it down. The description is amazing. A.M. Mawhiney knows how to excite and draw in the reader. There are four key teenagers in a high school debate club. The four people are as different as different could be. There is the basketball star, the artist, the privileged young man and the mysterious multi-coloured haired woman.
None of them wants to take part in the debate club at first, but they form alliances. The author profiles all four protagonists and shows their divergent home lives. They are so mature, as the well-written dialogue shows.
But it is not just about the debate club; the book is a coming-of-age story with important social issues of our current times. There are so many twists and turns throughout the book. There are many themes that the author explores through the eyes of the teenagers.
The author covers tough topics well. This book made me think.
None of them wants to take part in the debate club at first, but they form alliances. The author profiles all four protagonists and shows their divergent home lives. They are so mature, as the well-written dialogue shows.
But it is not just about the debate club; the book is a coming-of-age story with important social issues of our current times. There are so many twists and turns throughout the book. There are many themes that the author explores through the eyes of the teenagers.
The author covers tough topics well. This book made me think.
February 1, 2026
Fugitive Rifts by A-M Mawhiney is a compelling piece of fiction exploring real-life everyday world issues. However, instead of adults we have a group of teenagers who form a debate team. None of them have anything in common but slowly they see the reality of what the other members suffer through and it is together that they face these issues. The story is very entertaining yet different compared to other works of fiction. It is raw, emotional, deep thinking, and wonderfully written. The novel is character driven. I like that. It's hard to write a book mentioning a hot topic without losing the story and having it crumble. However, A-M Mawhiney took more than one issue-a multilayered issue dealing story that never loses its flavor. I highly recommend this to all fans of literature and fiction.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
August 1, 2025
Fugitive Rifts is the type of story I wish I got to read when I was younger. It weaves together countless examples of what it looks like to move toward a future based on care and compassion, with each of us finding a way to meaningfully engage in making the world a better place, as a community. Centering the reality of climate change, A-M Mawhiney beautifully captures our interconnectedness with all beings and places, and the feeling of being held in the vastness of nature. It is a coming-of-age story for every kid that was made to feel like they cared too much. It is a story of the power of acceptance and surrender in the face of urgency, pain, and loss, and the people and places that walk us home.
September 5, 2025
Fugitive Rifts is a truly delightful tale of friendship and its enduring comfort. Four unlikely teenagers are brought together to form a debate team. All with different backgrounds, different home situations, different dreams and different fears. Through meetings and outings their friendship grows. The story is well written with excellent detail. The author excels at portraying each character’s emotions, their happy moments, they’re down times, their feelings toward each other as they grow closer.
The story kept me interested from start to finish. I look forward to reading more of her stories. Well done, Ms. Mawhiney.
The story kept me interested from start to finish. I look forward to reading more of her stories. Well done, Ms. Mawhiney.
November 15, 2025
This book made my list of one of the best Indie SFF books I read in 2025!
For the full list, please see below:
https://beforewegoblog.com/p-ls-top-i...
I received an ARC of this novel from the author, in exchange for an honest review, which I have provided below.
Brilliant author A-M Mawhiney spins an intoxicating, dynamic web of evocative prose, gripping plot, brilliant characterization, poignant family matters, youthful aspirations, and ultimately hope, in the wonderful present-near-future fiction novel, ‘Fugitive Rifts’.
Set on Canada’s beautiful west coast (a favourite location of mine), the novel follows four teenagers who have unique points of view. On the surface, they are quite normal and typical young adults. One possesses an arrogant brashness born of wealth and privilege; another is a basketball star who is disciplined and committed to her sport, and has aspirations for further greatness; another a bashful but brilliant academic; and the fourth is an easygoing and charismatic charmer who is a fabulous mediator. But these teens who seem to have some much in their favour, and so many advantages, are dealing with earth-shattering issues, concealing dark and foreboding secrets, and facing adversity at every turn.
Yet, bonded together by their high school debate team, these characters, from disparate backgrounds, come together despite their different circumstances, and grapple with confounding big picture world concerns such as climate change, domestic violence, being unhoused, and more.
Nonetheless, this quartet demonstrates what friendship, perseverance, kindness, intelligence, faith, and cohesion can accomplish in the face of fear, pain, grief, loss, and overwhelming odds.
The book commemorates the power of the human spirit, the ability to respect and cherish each other, to care for our fragile environment/ecosystem, and discover simple yet lasting solutions to profound problems. The message seems to be: our youth is our hope, and our future – we are in the best of hands with them. It is a very poignant, uplifting, and impactful message indeed.
As with any book by Mawhiney, it is absolutely beautifully crafted, with redolent, moving writing that enthralls. It will pull powerful emotions out from the depths of readers – don’t be surprised if you shed a tear. I certainly did.
The unification between all living things, nature, and all of our surroundings, comes to the forefront in this wonderful, spellbinding coming-of-age novel that should not be missed, and an incredible 5-star read!
For the full list, please see below:
https://beforewegoblog.com/p-ls-top-i...
I received an ARC of this novel from the author, in exchange for an honest review, which I have provided below.
Brilliant author A-M Mawhiney spins an intoxicating, dynamic web of evocative prose, gripping plot, brilliant characterization, poignant family matters, youthful aspirations, and ultimately hope, in the wonderful present-near-future fiction novel, ‘Fugitive Rifts’.
Set on Canada’s beautiful west coast (a favourite location of mine), the novel follows four teenagers who have unique points of view. On the surface, they are quite normal and typical young adults. One possesses an arrogant brashness born of wealth and privilege; another is a basketball star who is disciplined and committed to her sport, and has aspirations for further greatness; another a bashful but brilliant academic; and the fourth is an easygoing and charismatic charmer who is a fabulous mediator. But these teens who seem to have some much in their favour, and so many advantages, are dealing with earth-shattering issues, concealing dark and foreboding secrets, and facing adversity at every turn.
Yet, bonded together by their high school debate team, these characters, from disparate backgrounds, come together despite their different circumstances, and grapple with confounding big picture world concerns such as climate change, domestic violence, being unhoused, and more.
Nonetheless, this quartet demonstrates what friendship, perseverance, kindness, intelligence, faith, and cohesion can accomplish in the face of fear, pain, grief, loss, and overwhelming odds.
The book commemorates the power of the human spirit, the ability to respect and cherish each other, to care for our fragile environment/ecosystem, and discover simple yet lasting solutions to profound problems. The message seems to be: our youth is our hope, and our future – we are in the best of hands with them. It is a very poignant, uplifting, and impactful message indeed.
As with any book by Mawhiney, it is absolutely beautifully crafted, with redolent, moving writing that enthralls. It will pull powerful emotions out from the depths of readers – don’t be surprised if you shed a tear. I certainly did.
The unification between all living things, nature, and all of our surroundings, comes to the forefront in this wonderful, spellbinding coming-of-age novel that should not be missed, and an incredible 5-star read!
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews