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Nick and June Were Here
Nick and June were best friends for years, until their relationship suddenly turned into something more. Now, June is coping with a new diagnosis of schizophrenia, a secret she asked Nick to keep for too long. Between managing her symptoms and her parents, June is just trying to keep it together. Nick is a reluctant car thief, supporting his aunt with the money and focusing on his art whenever he can.
But when June's condition sends her to the hospital and Nick's latest crime threatens to land him in prison, the two decide to run away. When the world is trying to tear them apart, can Nick and June find a way to stay together? \
But when June's condition sends her to the hospital and Nick's latest crime threatens to land him in prison, the two decide to run away. When the world is trying to tear them apart, can Nick and June find a way to stay together? \
304 pages, Hardcover
First published February 1, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews
February 2, 2019
Nick and June Were Here is a contemporary young adult novel that's a fast read. The problem is that it's too fast. It tries to address adolescent onset schizophrenia, realizing you need to make hard choices, the ceaseless grind of poverty, life in rural America, death of a loved one, and at least two or thirty other things.
The writing in Nick and June Were Here is good, which is what makes the novel so frustrating. If the author had chosen to just focus on June's terror as she deals with the realization that, try as she might, she can't will what's happening to her away and her gradual acceptance of her schizophrenia diagnosis, the novel could have been great.
If she'd chosen to focus on Nick, who wants a better future than the one he's got but can't see a way to get it and has so few options, and how he fails to realize that his choices could bind him for years when he's so used to thinking only of the moment, the novel could have been great
But that doesn't happen and everything is smushed together in a too-small space, resisting in a story that tries to touch deep places but only dips the edge of a toe and a half in instead.
I didn't believe June's fast acceptance of her schizophrenia, I didn't believe in the "coincidences" that led to Nick's escape, road trip with June, or the "surprises" that happened. (Just typing all that made me roll my eyes) I didn't believe in the far, far too neat aftermath that made the rushed ending
Nick and June Were Here tries to do too many things--it wants to be a romance, a coming-of-age, a social commentary, and a look at mental illness. If it was longer, maybe these strands could have been woven together, but it isn't and they aren't.
Still, Shalanda Stanley's writing is good enough that I would read another book by her, with the fervent hope that the next one tries to do a few things beautifully instead of a lot clumsily.
The writing in Nick and June Were Here is good, which is what makes the novel so frustrating. If the author had chosen to just focus on June's terror as she deals with the realization that, try as she might, she can't will what's happening to her away and her gradual acceptance of her schizophrenia diagnosis, the novel could have been great.
If she'd chosen to focus on Nick, who wants a better future than the one he's got but can't see a way to get it and has so few options, and how he fails to realize that his choices could bind him for years when he's so used to thinking only of the moment, the novel could have been great
But that doesn't happen and everything is smushed together in a too-small space, resisting in a story that tries to touch deep places but only dips the edge of a toe and a half in instead.
I didn't believe June's fast acceptance of her schizophrenia, I didn't believe in the "coincidences" that led to Nick's escape, road trip with June, or the "surprises" that happened. (Just typing all that made me roll my eyes) I didn't believe in the far, far too neat aftermath that made the rushed ending
Nick and June Were Here tries to do too many things--it wants to be a romance, a coming-of-age, a social commentary, and a look at mental illness. If it was longer, maybe these strands could have been woven together, but it isn't and they aren't.
Still, Shalanda Stanley's writing is good enough that I would read another book by her, with the fervent hope that the next one tries to do a few things beautifully instead of a lot clumsily.
April 22, 2019
"Your future will look different, but it's still a future and you're still in it."
♡ Nick and June Were Here is a spur of the moment read that I greatly enjoyed reading through! This is by no means a soft, fluffy contemporary, but rather, an endearing story about two broken individuals, struggling to find a way to cope with elements not wholly within their control. This is my first experience reading a novel that deals with a teen suffering from schizophrenia, and I personally found it to be quite insightful and intriguing to read about. Shalanda Stanley also shares the beautiful message that you are more than your mental illness. So long as you don’t allow it to define you, you can rise above it.
♡ The romance is sweet, and I appreciate how time isn’t squandered sparking it. From the first page of the story, it’s clear that Nick and June have made their mutual feelings for one another clear. The dual point-of-views progressively show the extent of their relationship in the present, while also sharing recollections of events in their past. Being a huge fan of flashbacks, I adore these short memories at the start of many chapters; they paint a broader picture of the road bumps Nick and June have encountered throughout their lives.
♡ They’re lost, they’re broken, my heart is aching. I should honestly invent a phrase that encapsulates the whirlwind of emotions I feel when characters are in pain. I love it and hate it at the same time (but mostly the former), and simply feel as though I need to bundle these precious characters in my arms until their pain passes. Sweet June deals with so much distress as she tries to comprehend her newly developing mental illness. Amid this frightening situation, Nick causes her even greater worry, continuing to work at his part-time job stealing cars for a corrupt boss. What I love about this story, is how both individuals gradually realize that self-worth isn’t determined by past mistakes, poor parental role models, or uncontrollable factors.
♡ A small cast of characters, but fantastic dialogue and friendships. Where my focus remains on world building and enthralling writing in fantasy novels, my gaze lingers instead on dialogue and character development in contemporaries – I focus on the latter in books from all genres, of course, but weigh it quite heavily in realistic fiction. Novels from this genre have an additional element of relatability attached to them, so I often hand out a few brownie points if the dialogue feels genuine and is amusing. The friendship between June and her best friend, Bethany is adorable, and their jokes left me gasping for air on several occasions. I also admire how June’s parents continually offered all their love and support, when trying to diagnose her schizophrenia. Nick’s aunt is also a wonderful parental figure, tirelessly working to make ends meet, but never leaving her nephew’s side.
♡ This novel is bitter sweet, and I love all the ups and downs the characters face during it. Shalanda Stanley creates a terrific story, that felt incredibly authentic and genuine. She didn’t glorify criminal behavior, nor made schizophrenia appear as a “problem” that can be “fixed” at the drop of a hat. I have a couple issues with some decisions Nick makes but appreciate how Stanley shows that these warrant repercussions. The only other complaint I have is that Nick’s brother, John lacks development and conveniently appears for the sole purpose of inciting the conclusion. Nevertheless, I would highly recommend this read for anyone who loves the contemporary genre and doesn’t mind realistic stories with a tinge of sorrow.
I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review!
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December 20, 2018Well, that was pretty gutting, but also somehow optimistic? I like Shalanda Stanley a lot, man. It's such a mark of a compelling book now if I can actually finish the electronic version, and I read this one in a single day.
February 7, 2019
Warning: This was not a fluffy, simple, two-teens-in-love story. This was a story of a love that survived and flourished despite some really difficult circumstances, and about the tough choices one must make for those they love.
• Pro: My emotions were all over the place reading this book. Both Nick and June had serious issues to deal with. Nick was trying to escape a life of crime, and June was dealing with her recent diagnosis of schizophrenia. These were the really painful parts, but the parts, when Nick and June were able to just be NickAndJune were beautiful.
• Pro: I personally thought June's hospital stay was well done. Her sessions with the doctor and the steps taken to diagnose her, rang true for me. In general, the mental health issues were handled thoughtfully and with care.
• Pro: I guess the main focus was the love shared between Nick and June, but familial and non-romantic love was also explored, and it was done quite beautifully.
• Pro: It's impressive, that this didn't turn into some over the top drama. If you look at all the pieces, it totally could have, but Stanley carefully crafted the story, and each element was used judiciously, resulting in something that was really meaningful and pleasing.
• Pro: Every character was well drawn. It was easy to feel something for each and every one of them, and my heart especially ached for Nick, June, and June's parents.
• Pro: At one point, I put up an update about how I felt this story couldn't end well, and I was sort of right. It wouldn't have been realistic if it did, but what Stanley gave me, was an ending that was real, but hopeful.
Overall: An achingly beautiful love story between two people, who had so many obstacles in their way, but were determined to love each other in defiance of it all.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
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• Pro: My emotions were all over the place reading this book. Both Nick and June had serious issues to deal with. Nick was trying to escape a life of crime, and June was dealing with her recent diagnosis of schizophrenia. These were the really painful parts, but the parts, when Nick and June were able to just be NickAndJune were beautiful.
• Pro: I personally thought June's hospital stay was well done. Her sessions with the doctor and the steps taken to diagnose her, rang true for me. In general, the mental health issues were handled thoughtfully and with care.
• Pro: I guess the main focus was the love shared between Nick and June, but familial and non-romantic love was also explored, and it was done quite beautifully.
• Pro: It's impressive, that this didn't turn into some over the top drama. If you look at all the pieces, it totally could have, but Stanley carefully crafted the story, and each element was used judiciously, resulting in something that was really meaningful and pleasing.
• Pro: Every character was well drawn. It was easy to feel something for each and every one of them, and my heart especially ached for Nick, June, and June's parents.
• Pro: At one point, I put up an update about how I felt this story couldn't end well, and I was sort of right. It wouldn't have been realistic if it did, but what Stanley gave me, was an ending that was real, but hopeful.
Overall: An achingly beautiful love story between two people, who had so many obstacles in their way, but were determined to love each other in defiance of it all.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
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October 11, 2018
*** Thanks to NetGalley for providing me a complimentary copy of NICK AND JUNE WERE HERE by Shalanda Stanley in exchange for my honest review.***
3.5 STARS
After a psychotic break, June is diagnosed with schizophrenia. Her best friend/boyfriend, a reluctant car thief hopes his destiny isn’t prison like his father. Neither makes good decisions and the results may be catastrophic.
Writing schizophrenic narrators authentically is difficult, because disorganized thinking is a major component of the condition. Shalanda Stanley capture the auditory and visual hallucinations accurately. I was particularly glad she included June’s childhood with some hallucinations because the mistaken notion that healthy young adults wake up one day with schizophrenia appearing out of nowhere. Stanley was less accurate showing the disorganization.
After a slow start NICK AND JUNE WERE HERE picks up about 25% into the story and I became engaged in their stories. I loved June’s relationship with her second best friend Bethany and appreciated that both Nick and Bethany realized some secrets shouldn’t be kept, even if a friend gets mad. I had more trouble with June and Nick’s relationship because of certain decisions he convinced her to do including sneaking into the hospital. I know I was supposed to root for them, and I did as individuals, just not as friends or a couple. I had a lot of empathy for Nick, poor parental role models, abandoned by both. To me he wasn’t a victim of circumstances but a young man who made poor choices, pushing away help and support.
***mini spoiler***
The ending was satisfying. I was so glad Stanley avoided the love cure for mental illness and criminal behavior.
***end spoiler***
I recommend NICK AND JUNE WERE HERE with the caveat that friendship can feel good but be dysfunctional and ill-advised.
3.5 STARS
After a psychotic break, June is diagnosed with schizophrenia. Her best friend/boyfriend, a reluctant car thief hopes his destiny isn’t prison like his father. Neither makes good decisions and the results may be catastrophic.
Writing schizophrenic narrators authentically is difficult, because disorganized thinking is a major component of the condition. Shalanda Stanley capture the auditory and visual hallucinations accurately. I was particularly glad she included June’s childhood with some hallucinations because the mistaken notion that healthy young adults wake up one day with schizophrenia appearing out of nowhere. Stanley was less accurate showing the disorganization.
After a slow start NICK AND JUNE WERE HERE picks up about 25% into the story and I became engaged in their stories. I loved June’s relationship with her second best friend Bethany and appreciated that both Nick and Bethany realized some secrets shouldn’t be kept, even if a friend gets mad. I had more trouble with June and Nick’s relationship because of certain decisions he convinced her to do including sneaking into the hospital. I know I was supposed to root for them, and I did as individuals, just not as friends or a couple. I had a lot of empathy for Nick, poor parental role models, abandoned by both. To me he wasn’t a victim of circumstances but a young man who made poor choices, pushing away help and support.
***mini spoiler***
The ending was satisfying. I was so glad Stanley avoided the love cure for mental illness and criminal behavior.
***end spoiler***
I recommend NICK AND JUNE WERE HERE with the caveat that friendship can feel good but be dysfunctional and ill-advised.
July 26, 2025
One of the saddest books I’ve read (this is a good thing). Memorable, compelling, lovely characters that I was really rooting for. A surprisingly quick & fast-paced read, but it somehow didn’t feel rushed. Nick & June’s love for each other was so intense and real; I could not help but get oh so invested. I love the way this book handled mental illness, and I loved John & Nick’s relationship, and I loved Bethany & June’s friendship, and I loved the complexity and sadness constantly woven throughout this book. A very, very good read.
December 28, 2018
Two teens are determined to stay together in a world trying to tear them apart. Nick and June have always been best friends until recently, when their relationship became romantic. Now June is on the cusp of being diagnosed with schizophrenia and Nick is arrested for stealing a car, as he desperately needs the money. June is in the hospital and Nick is in jail until they decided to run away together. Will they be able to stay together and fight the forces keeping them apart?
⭐️⭐️⭐️
What I thought was going to be a foray into youth mental health was actually a YA love story. The author missed the opportunity to get the message out about this mood disorder and enlighten this age group to symptoms and treatment options. Instead, the reader gets a stereotypical look at schizophrenia. News flash, not all schizophrenics hear voices and see things! It’s a huge pet peeve of mine, as I have a close family member with schizophrenia and I’m certified in youth mental health first aid. Aside from that, the author does give a small look at the hospital setting and a blip of June’s treatment plan. I was a fan of how the author showed that June’s friends don’t keep her secret any longer and bring her to her parents, knowing she may be angry with them and doing it anyway because it’s what’s best. This is an important thing for teens to learn and I was so happy to see it included. For me, Nick and June Were Here was ⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 stars. Thank you @knopfteen for this advance reader in exchange for my honest review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
What I thought was going to be a foray into youth mental health was actually a YA love story. The author missed the opportunity to get the message out about this mood disorder and enlighten this age group to symptoms and treatment options. Instead, the reader gets a stereotypical look at schizophrenia. News flash, not all schizophrenics hear voices and see things! It’s a huge pet peeve of mine, as I have a close family member with schizophrenia and I’m certified in youth mental health first aid. Aside from that, the author does give a small look at the hospital setting and a blip of June’s treatment plan. I was a fan of how the author showed that June’s friends don’t keep her secret any longer and bring her to her parents, knowing she may be angry with them and doing it anyway because it’s what’s best. This is an important thing for teens to learn and I was so happy to see it included. For me, Nick and June Were Here was ⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 stars. Thank you @knopfteen for this advance reader in exchange for my honest review.
May 22, 2019
The writing in this book was solid, and I think it touched on some unique topics. I felt as though the plot jumped around a bit at times, and I found it hard to connect with the characters a bit throughout the book.
January 27, 2019
Nick and June have been best friends for many years. A recent relationship change has happened due to the fact that Nick and June are closer than ever: boyfriend and girlfriend. The two of them are struggling with big issues on their own. June is experiencing some scary mental illness symptoms, only to be diagnosed with schizophrenia not much later. Nick is trying to make up for lost money from his father's poor decisions by involving himself in illegal matters. Can the two of them work through these big changes on their own? Can they come out on the other side of this stronger than ever?
I don't know why I thought this book would be lighthearted. The synopsis mentions the mental illness issues, something that is never lighthearted in itself. This was an emotional, deep read, but very well written. The only thing that deterred me from this was that I felt like it was a typical good girl/bad boy runaway novel. There are a lot of young adults like that out there in the world. I didn't feel like this was unique enough to distinguish from others. Regardless, I think Shalanda did a wonderful job sharing the importance of mental illness care.
3.5/5 Stars
thank you Knopf teen for my review copy
From my blog and Instagram account @livereadandprosper
From my blog and Instagram account @livereadandprosper
December 27, 2018
Disclaimer I received this arc from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I was super excited to read this book. But that excitement wore off fast. I was very annoyed with this book. First it's cliche. June is a good girl who is always worrying about her grades. Nick is a bad boy from the wrong side of town. He's a sweet bad boy. Typical. He's also an artist. June was diagnosed with schizophrenia. While she's in the hospital getting treated Nick gets arrested. We all knew that was going to happen. I mean come on he stole cars for a living. I can see why her parents didn't want her to date him anymore. What really made me mad was he escaped jail to bury the ashes of his uncle. 1. Why the hell is hr burying ashes? Why not scatter them. 2. Why is he risking his life on it? He is just going to ruin the potential deal with the judge. 3. He takes June away from her home once shes released. She was just put on meds and needs to be close to her doctor to be monitored. He risks her health for his selfish needs. 4. He plans to live off the grid hiding from the cops. He also plans to have June drive back home when he leaves. Perfect plan, except he only had her drive once! She doesn't really know how to drive. Nick only cares about himself. Finally at the end he does the right thing.
I hated the characters and I didn't feel sorry for Nick at all. He got what he deserved. June was very weak. Not because she was schizophrenic but because she didn't stick up for what was right.
I was actually suprised I was able to read all of this book.
The things I liked about this book was that it had an appealing cover. The main reason why I requested it. I liked that the main character had schizophrenia that's something you don't see all the time in books.
I was super excited to read this book. But that excitement wore off fast. I was very annoyed with this book. First it's cliche. June is a good girl who is always worrying about her grades. Nick is a bad boy from the wrong side of town. He's a sweet bad boy. Typical. He's also an artist. June was diagnosed with schizophrenia. While she's in the hospital getting treated Nick gets arrested. We all knew that was going to happen. I mean come on he stole cars for a living. I can see why her parents didn't want her to date him anymore. What really made me mad was he escaped jail to bury the ashes of his uncle. 1. Why the hell is hr burying ashes? Why not scatter them. 2. Why is he risking his life on it? He is just going to ruin the potential deal with the judge. 3. He takes June away from her home once shes released. She was just put on meds and needs to be close to her doctor to be monitored. He risks her health for his selfish needs. 4. He plans to live off the grid hiding from the cops. He also plans to have June drive back home when he leaves. Perfect plan, except he only had her drive once! She doesn't really know how to drive. Nick only cares about himself. Finally at the end he does the right thing.
I hated the characters and I didn't feel sorry for Nick at all. He got what he deserved. June was very weak. Not because she was schizophrenic but because she didn't stick up for what was right.
I was actually suprised I was able to read all of this book.
The things I liked about this book was that it had an appealing cover. The main reason why I requested it. I liked that the main character had schizophrenia that's something you don't see all the time in books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 20, 2019
I received this e-book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I loved this book! I love any books where the main character has some kind of mental illness. I think it is fascinating being in their mind and seeing how they think. This book is a look into June who has schizophrenia but has no idea. She honestly has no idea that she has any kind of mental illness, but she knows that something is going on with her. Nick is the other POV that we follow, and he is June's boyfriend. They have been best friends since the 5th grade, but it turned into something much more than friendship.
I really enjoyed Nick and June's relationship. I think that Shalanda Stanley did an excellent job showing the ups and downs of a relationship where one person has a mental illness and the other person has problems as well. I loved that we got to see both of their POV's and both of their struggles. This book was an emotional rollercoaster. I had soo many different feelings while reading it.
I thought that the pacing of the book was well done. We start out with Nick and June already in a relationship but with the use of flashbacks we get to see how their relationship blossomed and we also get to look into their past. I really loved how much faith they had in one another to succeed and be better.
You can tell that Stanley crafted this story with so much care and emotion. The way everything was handled with schizophrenia was so well done. This was a very intense book, at a lot of the time I was so scared of what was going to happen to these characters. I fell in love with both June and Nick and their other close friend Bethany so easily. Stanley did a wonderful job with these characters and their development. While reading this I felt like this was such a genuine story.
I definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves stories like these. You won't be disappointed.
I loved this book! I love any books where the main character has some kind of mental illness. I think it is fascinating being in their mind and seeing how they think. This book is a look into June who has schizophrenia but has no idea. She honestly has no idea that she has any kind of mental illness, but she knows that something is going on with her. Nick is the other POV that we follow, and he is June's boyfriend. They have been best friends since the 5th grade, but it turned into something much more than friendship.
I really enjoyed Nick and June's relationship. I think that Shalanda Stanley did an excellent job showing the ups and downs of a relationship where one person has a mental illness and the other person has problems as well. I loved that we got to see both of their POV's and both of their struggles. This book was an emotional rollercoaster. I had soo many different feelings while reading it.
I thought that the pacing of the book was well done. We start out with Nick and June already in a relationship but with the use of flashbacks we get to see how their relationship blossomed and we also get to look into their past. I really loved how much faith they had in one another to succeed and be better.
You can tell that Stanley crafted this story with so much care and emotion. The way everything was handled with schizophrenia was so well done. This was a very intense book, at a lot of the time I was so scared of what was going to happen to these characters. I fell in love with both June and Nick and their other close friend Bethany so easily. Stanley did a wonderful job with these characters and their development. While reading this I felt like this was such a genuine story.
I definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves stories like these. You won't be disappointed.
February 1, 2019
eARC provided by publisher through NetGalley
Nick and June Were Here is about two teenagers in love trying to stay afloat when their both faced with harsh reality. June has always been the good one and figuring out her plans for college while Nick has had a rough life since his mother left and his dad is in jail for the same thing he is doing now. Both are opposites but love makes you do questionable things as they set off on an adventure together.
I enjoyed the plot of the book and how it touched on mental illness which can be a hard subject at times. The characters were unique in their own way but I didn’t feel as though I connected with them on a deeper level. The relationship between Nick and June was one thing that kept me going. Every step of the way, Nick wanted what was best for her and even when he does put her in danger he has the courage to realize it and make a decision that changes his life.
Her writing style was great and I loved how the chapters were split by point of views, Nick or June. It’s nice when you can get into the head of multiple characters too see why they would make decisions especially in this book which is full of them. I can’t say I was a fan of the ending because I am one that needs more closure but overall it was a decent tie up.
Although the characters lacked a bit for me, it was a decent read and didn’t take long to finish. If you like contemporaries then give this book a try!
Nick and June Were Here is about two teenagers in love trying to stay afloat when their both faced with harsh reality. June has always been the good one and figuring out her plans for college while Nick has had a rough life since his mother left and his dad is in jail for the same thing he is doing now. Both are opposites but love makes you do questionable things as they set off on an adventure together.
I enjoyed the plot of the book and how it touched on mental illness which can be a hard subject at times. The characters were unique in their own way but I didn’t feel as though I connected with them on a deeper level. The relationship between Nick and June was one thing that kept me going. Every step of the way, Nick wanted what was best for her and even when he does put her in danger he has the courage to realize it and make a decision that changes his life.
Her writing style was great and I loved how the chapters were split by point of views, Nick or June. It’s nice when you can get into the head of multiple characters too see why they would make decisions especially in this book which is full of them. I can’t say I was a fan of the ending because I am one that needs more closure but overall it was a decent tie up.
Although the characters lacked a bit for me, it was a decent read and didn’t take long to finish. If you like contemporaries then give this book a try!
November 7, 2018
My heart went out to Nick and June in this passionate story overflowing with young love. A love so intimate and powerful you’d think it could survive anything (I believed it when I was a teenager too!) Except Nick and June have so much going against them that it is absolutely reckless for them even to be together. As a parent, I was scared to death for them both as I tore through the pages.
I won’t give too much away as to where the story takes them but once I got into it, I had to know how it would end. WOW!
This story deals with heavy topics such as absent parents, criminal charges, mental health and running away from home. Despite how troubled they were, I just loved this young couple and was cheering for them!!
I received this advanced copy from NetGalley and Random House Children’s Publishing in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own. This book will be published February 12, 2019. I hope you will check it out!
I won’t give too much away as to where the story takes them but once I got into it, I had to know how it would end. WOW!
This story deals with heavy topics such as absent parents, criminal charges, mental health and running away from home. Despite how troubled they were, I just loved this young couple and was cheering for them!!
I received this advanced copy from NetGalley and Random House Children’s Publishing in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own. This book will be published February 12, 2019. I hope you will check it out!
December 23, 2018
Nick and June were here by shalanda Stanley
4⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and Random house children’s for an E-arc in exchange for an honest review.
June, a young teenager going through a mental breakdown. Months of not knowing what’s going on and months of trying to hide her secret.
Nick, a young car thief that hasn’t known anything else in his life other than being madly in love with June.
Best friends and now madly in love with each other, they try to take their life into there own hands. After June gets diagnosed with schizophrenia and nick gets arrested for grand theft auto they decide to run away. Running away proves to be more than they could possibly handle. One thing leads to another and they hope the wronged can be righted again.
This book was so intense with young love, mental illness, friendship, and family. I would highly recommended this book to anyways who needs a read with good representation and a love story that feels just right!
4⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and Random house children’s for an E-arc in exchange for an honest review.
June, a young teenager going through a mental breakdown. Months of not knowing what’s going on and months of trying to hide her secret.
Nick, a young car thief that hasn’t known anything else in his life other than being madly in love with June.
Best friends and now madly in love with each other, they try to take their life into there own hands. After June gets diagnosed with schizophrenia and nick gets arrested for grand theft auto they decide to run away. Running away proves to be more than they could possibly handle. One thing leads to another and they hope the wronged can be righted again.
This book was so intense with young love, mental illness, friendship, and family. I would highly recommended this book to anyways who needs a read with good representation and a love story that feels just right!
April 14, 2019
This book started out on a high note and quickly fell apart. June started acting weird around her boyfriend and best friend and they just tolerated it until a night when it fell apart.
They take her to her parents and force her to share what is happening and they admit her to a hospital looking for help with her mental health. In the meantime Nick is in deep with the local car thief.
As June works out her issues in the hospital Nick is arrested and charged as an adult for grand theft auto. On an impluse and without much explaination he accepts Jail and June runs off with him.
As quickly as that happens they turn themselves in, he faces charges and June gets the medical help she needs without much explaination
They take her to her parents and force her to share what is happening and they admit her to a hospital looking for help with her mental health. In the meantime Nick is in deep with the local car thief.
As June works out her issues in the hospital Nick is arrested and charged as an adult for grand theft auto. On an impluse and without much explaination he accepts Jail and June runs off with him.
As quickly as that happens they turn themselves in, he faces charges and June gets the medical help she needs without much explaination
January 15, 2019
Nick and June Were Hear is a story of young love and serious issues. June is schizophrenic. Nick is a criminal. They face the challenges together. Here, however, is the irony: Nick's problems come from his own decisions and bad choices. June's mental illness is something that is not her choice and doesn't allow her to make decisions. Her illness decides for her. The story is intriguing and engaging, but I don't like the characters together. I'm in the middle here because there are good and bad things going on. Thanks to NetGalley for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
February 1, 2019
I loved Nick and June so much. This story reminded me of All the Bright Places mixed with Turtles All the Way Down....it’s a beautiful love story with a highly engaging (but sometimes implausible) plot. I knocked the rating down a little due to a plot element that remained up in the air. I loved their story from start to finish. I want to know what happens next!
July 1, 2019
This book tackles many difficult subjects, including schizophrenia and teen crime. In fact, it felt a bit too crowded, which is the only reason I deducted a star. Nick and June's story grabbed me from the beginning and I finished in a single day.
This honest review is based on a complimentary copy provided by the publisher.
This honest review is based on a complimentary copy provided by the publisher.
May 3, 2019
TW: Schizophrenia
I really loved this one. June’s confusion and frustration when entering treatment was something that I personally experienced. The portrayal of the struggle of finding a diagnosis and trying different medications and treatments felt very real. Nick was an interesting character. With his sections, some things were a bit convenient for the sake of the plot but I did enjoy his character growth.
I really loved this one. June’s confusion and frustration when entering treatment was something that I personally experienced. The portrayal of the struggle of finding a diagnosis and trying different medications and treatments felt very real. Nick was an interesting character. With his sections, some things were a bit convenient for the sake of the plot but I did enjoy his character growth.
May 23, 2021
I read this book a couple of years ago and I remember one thing very clearly: I had an emotional connection with this book. Like I barely remember the plot but I know that I just LOVE LOVE LOVED it.
July 7, 2021
4.5 Stars...
Once again, Shalanda Stanley did not disappoint. This was a really good book with flawed characters that you can't help feeling compassion for. I thought Nick and June's relationship (though rough around the edges) was sweet and even though Nick did a lot of bad things you still wanted everything to work out in the end for the 2 of them. I know a lot of people thought too much was going on, but I actually liked that with this story because it kept it interesting. I must admit I did like Drowning Is Inevitable better. This one wasn't as haunting and feely, but it's still a touching book.
Content: There is sex (2x I think), but very mild---nothing graphic. A handful of heated kisses...
Language: There is some cursing, but not as much as some other YA novels (2 f-bombs & around 25-30 other choice words).
Once again, Shalanda Stanley did not disappoint. This was a really good book with flawed characters that you can't help feeling compassion for. I thought Nick and June's relationship (though rough around the edges) was sweet and even though Nick did a lot of bad things you still wanted everything to work out in the end for the 2 of them. I know a lot of people thought too much was going on, but I actually liked that with this story because it kept it interesting. I must admit I did like Drowning Is Inevitable better. This one wasn't as haunting and feely, but it's still a touching book.
Content: There is sex (2x I think), but very mild---nothing graphic. A handful of heated kisses...
Language: There is some cursing, but not as much as some other YA novels (2 f-bombs & around 25-30 other choice words).
July 12, 2022
(actually 5.5/5)
this was a very good short read ❤️ . i was conflicted on what i’m gonna rate it tbh . i was going to give it a 5 but then when i got to the end my rating changed to a 5.5/5 . i rlly did enjoy this book ☝🏽 . i liked many things abt this book . starting off, i liked how this book had a main character who has schizophrenia . there’s something abt this disorder that interests me 🤷🏽♀️ . so, it was actually interesting to read abt . i liked both main characters 🥰 . i liked reading abt how june copes w/ being schizophrenic & how nick helps her throughout it 🙃 . the book was definitely interesting since the beginning, it was always something going on . i liked reading abt nick & june’s relationship, i thought it was really unique & cute 💗 . i liked the simple but captivating writing style . this was one of those ‘i can’t wait to keep reading so i’ll see what happens next’ books . lastly, the book brought a rare emotion out of me .. which was genuine sadness that led to me crying at the end 🥲 . the tears was just coming down by the end 😩 . that actually is what made me push the rating from a 5 to a 5.5 . there isn’t anything i disliked about the book but if i had to choose something i’d say the ending (as in the very last page) felt rushed, in my opinion 🙇🏽♀️ . it would’ve been nice if the author would’ve added just a little more but other than that i loved it & id definitely re-read this 🥰 .
this was a very good short read ❤️ . i was conflicted on what i’m gonna rate it tbh . i was going to give it a 5 but then when i got to the end my rating changed to a 5.5/5 . i rlly did enjoy this book ☝🏽 . i liked many things abt this book . starting off, i liked how this book had a main character who has schizophrenia . there’s something abt this disorder that interests me 🤷🏽♀️ . so, it was actually interesting to read abt . i liked both main characters 🥰 . i liked reading abt how june copes w/ being schizophrenic & how nick helps her throughout it 🙃 . the book was definitely interesting since the beginning, it was always something going on . i liked reading abt nick & june’s relationship, i thought it was really unique & cute 💗 . i liked the simple but captivating writing style . this was one of those ‘i can’t wait to keep reading so i’ll see what happens next’ books . lastly, the book brought a rare emotion out of me .. which was genuine sadness that led to me crying at the end 🥲 . the tears was just coming down by the end 😩 . that actually is what made me push the rating from a 5 to a 5.5 . there isn’t anything i disliked about the book but if i had to choose something i’d say the ending (as in the very last page) felt rushed, in my opinion 🙇🏽♀️ . it would’ve been nice if the author would’ve added just a little more but other than that i loved it & id definitely re-read this 🥰 .
March 8, 2019
Ever since they were paired together for a school project, Nick and June were inseparable. Their childhood friendship quickly blossomed into a sweeping romance. Their lives begin to change, though, when June starts to experience hallucinations. She hides her experiences from her parents until it becomes unbearable. Upon being admitted to the hospital, June is diagnosed with schizophrenia. She now has to learn to deal with her illness and manage new medication and treatments. Nick, meanwhile, has become a reluctant car thief who has gotten caught in his crimes one too many times. After getting arrested, yet again, Nick stows away from prison to run away with June for one last adventure. A story of love and adventure, NICK AND JUNE WERE HERE explores what two teenagers will do to stay together, despite the world seeming to pull them apart.
My favorite part of this story was undoubtedly the prose. Shalanda Stanley crafts such a well-written narrative with such beautiful and poetic diction and syntax. I often felt myself being swept away by her writing, particularly during the scenes from June’s point of view. It made the story so much more enjoyable to read, as many other contemporary novels tend to be written rather simplistically.
Unfortunately, I had a minor issue with the plot of this story. While I do find Nick and June’s romance to be very endearing, I am incredibly frustrated with Nick’s decision to take off with June very shortly after she was checked out from the hospital. At this point in the novel, June is on new medication to help treat her schizophrenia. As a result, she is experiencing side effects from the pills she is taking. It is incredibly dangerous for her to be running away with Nick on a whim, especially without her alerting her parents to her intentions. While Nick does come to the realization later on that his decision was frivolous and selfish, he endangered someone that he truly cares about, which is not okay by any means. I understand that this escapade is essential to the plot, but it felt incredibly uncomfortable to read. Nick cares so deeply for June and her wellbeing, yet, ironically, he puts her in terrible danger with his actions.
I did appreciate this novel’s focus on mental health, particularly schizophrenia, which is an illness that is not often written about in young adult literature. While I cannot speak to the representation of this illness in the text, I did find it to be accurately written to fit what prior knowledge I have of the illness from taking health and psychology classes. June’s reactions to her visual and auditory hallucinations are so heartbreaking to read. I could not even imagine what she must have been going through. I enjoyed reading about June’s time in the hospital, in which she speaks to nurses and psychiatrists about her experiences with schizophrenia. Her caretakers are genuinely caring and sympathetic people that want to assure June that she is just as normal as anybody else, despite what she is experiencing. The normalization of mental illness is incredibly important, so I am incredibly grateful Stanley takes time to touch on that issue.
As for Nick, I find that I was not drawn towards his character as much as I was drawn towards June. His poor home life and childhood are a significant factor in his decision to repeatedly commit car theft, but I find that this is not enough to excuse his actions. I definitely sympathize with Nick and find his situation heartbreaking, but I know that he is so much smarter than he makes himself out to be. He could easily make the decision to focus on his school work, study and go to a community college in order to begin a new chapter in his life. Yet, because he seems to lack a self-preservation instinct, he continually is roped into committing the same crimes for a terrible human being. The best parts of Nick are when he is with June. Their romance is incredibly simple and romantic, especially in the moments when Nick paints birds on June. The two really seem to balance each other out. June brings out the best in Nick. I truly believe she is the best thing he has and serves to motivate him to be a better version of himself.
If you are looking for an endearing and poetic contemporary romance novel with mental health representation, I would definitely recommend NICK AND JUNE WERE HERE. While I did have minor issues with the plot, I still found the story enjoyable. It was worth my read, particularly for the focus on schizophrenia.
My favorite part of this story was undoubtedly the prose. Shalanda Stanley crafts such a well-written narrative with such beautiful and poetic diction and syntax. I often felt myself being swept away by her writing, particularly during the scenes from June’s point of view. It made the story so much more enjoyable to read, as many other contemporary novels tend to be written rather simplistically.
Unfortunately, I had a minor issue with the plot of this story. While I do find Nick and June’s romance to be very endearing, I am incredibly frustrated with Nick’s decision to take off with June very shortly after she was checked out from the hospital. At this point in the novel, June is on new medication to help treat her schizophrenia. As a result, she is experiencing side effects from the pills she is taking. It is incredibly dangerous for her to be running away with Nick on a whim, especially without her alerting her parents to her intentions. While Nick does come to the realization later on that his decision was frivolous and selfish, he endangered someone that he truly cares about, which is not okay by any means. I understand that this escapade is essential to the plot, but it felt incredibly uncomfortable to read. Nick cares so deeply for June and her wellbeing, yet, ironically, he puts her in terrible danger with his actions.
I did appreciate this novel’s focus on mental health, particularly schizophrenia, which is an illness that is not often written about in young adult literature. While I cannot speak to the representation of this illness in the text, I did find it to be accurately written to fit what prior knowledge I have of the illness from taking health and psychology classes. June’s reactions to her visual and auditory hallucinations are so heartbreaking to read. I could not even imagine what she must have been going through. I enjoyed reading about June’s time in the hospital, in which she speaks to nurses and psychiatrists about her experiences with schizophrenia. Her caretakers are genuinely caring and sympathetic people that want to assure June that she is just as normal as anybody else, despite what she is experiencing. The normalization of mental illness is incredibly important, so I am incredibly grateful Stanley takes time to touch on that issue.
As for Nick, I find that I was not drawn towards his character as much as I was drawn towards June. His poor home life and childhood are a significant factor in his decision to repeatedly commit car theft, but I find that this is not enough to excuse his actions. I definitely sympathize with Nick and find his situation heartbreaking, but I know that he is so much smarter than he makes himself out to be. He could easily make the decision to focus on his school work, study and go to a community college in order to begin a new chapter in his life. Yet, because he seems to lack a self-preservation instinct, he continually is roped into committing the same crimes for a terrible human being. The best parts of Nick are when he is with June. Their romance is incredibly simple and romantic, especially in the moments when Nick paints birds on June. The two really seem to balance each other out. June brings out the best in Nick. I truly believe she is the best thing he has and serves to motivate him to be a better version of himself.
If you are looking for an endearing and poetic contemporary romance novel with mental health representation, I would definitely recommend NICK AND JUNE WERE HERE. While I did have minor issues with the plot, I still found the story enjoyable. It was worth my read, particularly for the focus on schizophrenia.
January 9, 2020
Nick and June Were Here was written by Shalanda Stanely. This story takes place in a small Arkansas town. Nick and June were childhood friends, but as they grew older their feelings towards each other changed from friends to lovers. Nick is a car thief, and June has Schizophrenia. Nick got caught trying to steal a car, sending him to jail. He escaped out of the jail and decided to run from the law, bringing June with him. How far can they make it with a mentally unstable teen and her car stealing boyfriend? I read All the Bright Places and Girl in Pieces. Nick and June Were Here is like the love child of the two books. I liked them both so, I decided to read this book. It is very interesting to see what life is like being Schizophrenia. It was very eye-opening. Although I am not quite sure how accurate the other portrays Schizophrenia it seemed pretty accurate.
June was a girl that was struggling with some major demons. As she was getting older, she started to get more bad symptoms. Eventually, she ended up in a mental hospital. Nick was a boy that was also struggling with some major demons. His father was in jail because he was a car thief, his mom left him, and his brother was in the army. Which left him alone so. He moved in with his aunt and he rarely went to school. He loves art and he loves camping, but he loves nothing more than, June.
"Spoiler alert," I was not expecting the end of the book at all. I wasn't sure how the book was going to end though, I wasn’t expecting him to turn himself in. I was assuming that he would run off again or something of the sort. I was very sad that we didn't get to see the interaction between Nick and June at the police station. I cried at the end because it was honestly quite heart wrenching. I loved that he realized what he was doing was bad for her, so he decided to do what would benefit both of them. He did the right thing and he did it for her.
I thought this book was very good. I'm not sure how accurate the mental health aspect of it was though. I enjoy reading books that include a mental health aspect because it is very important to know about. I especially like romance mental health books, because it is very important for people to know that just because you are suffering that does not mean that you can't be loved. I think that people should read this book because everyone deserves to love and to be loved, this story showed that. Some similar books would be All The Bright Places, Every Last Word, Turtles All the Way Down, and Holding Up the Universe. I have read all of those books and I do recommend them.
June was a girl that was struggling with some major demons. As she was getting older, she started to get more bad symptoms. Eventually, she ended up in a mental hospital. Nick was a boy that was also struggling with some major demons. His father was in jail because he was a car thief, his mom left him, and his brother was in the army. Which left him alone so. He moved in with his aunt and he rarely went to school. He loves art and he loves camping, but he loves nothing more than, June.
"Spoiler alert," I was not expecting the end of the book at all. I wasn't sure how the book was going to end though, I wasn’t expecting him to turn himself in. I was assuming that he would run off again or something of the sort. I was very sad that we didn't get to see the interaction between Nick and June at the police station. I cried at the end because it was honestly quite heart wrenching. I loved that he realized what he was doing was bad for her, so he decided to do what would benefit both of them. He did the right thing and he did it for her.
I thought this book was very good. I'm not sure how accurate the mental health aspect of it was though. I enjoy reading books that include a mental health aspect because it is very important to know about. I especially like romance mental health books, because it is very important for people to know that just because you are suffering that does not mean that you can't be loved. I think that people should read this book because everyone deserves to love and to be loved, this story showed that. Some similar books would be All The Bright Places, Every Last Word, Turtles All the Way Down, and Holding Up the Universe. I have read all of those books and I do recommend them.
December 5, 2019
With different people, one story told from the two perspectives of a couple of teens. Nick and June Were Here, fully captivates the lives of teens who are struggling at a young age in the world. June, who finds out she has schizophrenia, has to find a way to cope with her symptoms and her worries parents at home. Nick, a thief who steals cars because he has to, wants to have a new start at life before he gets thrown in jail with his father. This story was thorough with details and completed one’s need for a great novel to read. It is also told from two different points of view, giving readers new knowledge of the story and events unfolding through the chapters. Life is not easy for either person, but they work with each other to get through each day. Problems in life are not supposed to have an easy fix and solution, which is one point that the book covers. Also, having someone there for any problem and through tough times is something that can help.
I would rate this book a 3 out of 5 stars because there were some parts of the story that were a little boring, or they did not feel necessary to me. Also, the story could have been more exciting, with larger plots and different plot twists incorporated. Overall, though, I was able to read this quickly, and I was able to understand it well. One discussion question that I would ask a reader is, “Why was it so hard for Nick to change?” I would answer this question by beginning with why he wanted to change. June bugged him about starting over and changing how he was making a living. It was very dangerous, so she was worried he would get caught as his father did. My answer to the discussion question is Nick was so used to stealing cars, that he didn’t know how he could support him and his aunt for the rest of their lives. Also, June believed that people could change right away, but in reality, altering an old habit takes time and thought.
As I was reading through the reviews on this book from other readers, I found one that stuck out to me: “June was very weak. Not because she was schizophrenic, but because she didn’t stand up for what was right.” This review is a little harsh, but a bit true at the same time. I agree that there were times where I thought that June could have said something about an event that was about to happen. She tended to keep her mouth shut about a lot of different things. But, as the book progressed, she was able to be a little bit more open.
Overall, this book was good. I cannot say that I loved it, but it was an easy and quick read for me. I would recommend this story to someone who likes to have a storyline that is predictable and is a typical teen novel.
I would rate this book a 3 out of 5 stars because there were some parts of the story that were a little boring, or they did not feel necessary to me. Also, the story could have been more exciting, with larger plots and different plot twists incorporated. Overall, though, I was able to read this quickly, and I was able to understand it well. One discussion question that I would ask a reader is, “Why was it so hard for Nick to change?” I would answer this question by beginning with why he wanted to change. June bugged him about starting over and changing how he was making a living. It was very dangerous, so she was worried he would get caught as his father did. My answer to the discussion question is Nick was so used to stealing cars, that he didn’t know how he could support him and his aunt for the rest of their lives. Also, June believed that people could change right away, but in reality, altering an old habit takes time and thought.
As I was reading through the reviews on this book from other readers, I found one that stuck out to me: “June was very weak. Not because she was schizophrenic, but because she didn’t stand up for what was right.” This review is a little harsh, but a bit true at the same time. I agree that there were times where I thought that June could have said something about an event that was about to happen. She tended to keep her mouth shut about a lot of different things. But, as the book progressed, she was able to be a little bit more open.
Overall, this book was good. I cannot say that I loved it, but it was an easy and quick read for me. I would recommend this story to someone who likes to have a storyline that is predictable and is a typical teen novel.
February 20, 2019
Check out my reviews at https://cheyennereads.home.blog !
I received this arc for free in exchange for an honest review from the publisher.
Nick and June Were Here is the story of a young couple, Nick and June, trying to get through life together. June is hearing voices and believes she can handle it on her own, and Nick spends his time stealing cars in order to help his aunt with the bills. When June ends up in the hospital after a breakdown and Nick faces serious jail time after a carjacking gone wrong, they decide to run away to Nick’s uncle’s cabin.
I love the way this book was written. Shalanda Stanley’s writing style is slightly lyrical in my opinion, and I thought it was lovely. Reading and getting into this book felt dream-like. I’m not usually a fan of that writing style, but I felt like it was done well here.
I’m really into any book that tackles the subject of mental illness. Mental illness is a big part of my life – I am a mental health advocate and deal with mental illness of my own. I don’t have much experience with schizophrenia, but I felt that the author handled it respectfully and I was fascinated to learn more about it. June’s schizophrenia felt very real and it was written in a way that made you empathize and understand what she was going through. I think this is an important book in explaining mental health and schizophrenia to teenagers/young adults.
I liked Nick’s chapters a lot less than June’s. I just didn’t particularly sympathize with Nick. I felt bad for what he went through with his family, and I understood his trouble with abandonment, which made me really feel for him, but there were just so many parts where I wanted to scream at him to stop making stupid decisions! I understand that he felt he needed to help out his aunt with the bills, but it was frustrating that it was never addressed why he didn’t just get a legitimate job, instead of stealing cars from innocent people. I just didn’t see him as a particularly likeable character and didn’t understand what June saw in him.
Although some of Nick’s chapters bored me a little, I enjoyed the story overall. I loved June’s chapters and enjoyed the road trip aspect of the novel. It was emotional and hard hitting, my favorite type of contemporary, and held my attention throughout. I finished the book quickly because it was always so easy to pick it back up. I recommend this book if you want to read a hard hitting contemporary romance, with healthy mental illness representation.
I received this arc for free in exchange for an honest review from the publisher.
Nick and June Were Here is the story of a young couple, Nick and June, trying to get through life together. June is hearing voices and believes she can handle it on her own, and Nick spends his time stealing cars in order to help his aunt with the bills. When June ends up in the hospital after a breakdown and Nick faces serious jail time after a carjacking gone wrong, they decide to run away to Nick’s uncle’s cabin.
I love the way this book was written. Shalanda Stanley’s writing style is slightly lyrical in my opinion, and I thought it was lovely. Reading and getting into this book felt dream-like. I’m not usually a fan of that writing style, but I felt like it was done well here.
I’m really into any book that tackles the subject of mental illness. Mental illness is a big part of my life – I am a mental health advocate and deal with mental illness of my own. I don’t have much experience with schizophrenia, but I felt that the author handled it respectfully and I was fascinated to learn more about it. June’s schizophrenia felt very real and it was written in a way that made you empathize and understand what she was going through. I think this is an important book in explaining mental health and schizophrenia to teenagers/young adults.
I liked Nick’s chapters a lot less than June’s. I just didn’t particularly sympathize with Nick. I felt bad for what he went through with his family, and I understood his trouble with abandonment, which made me really feel for him, but there were just so many parts where I wanted to scream at him to stop making stupid decisions! I understand that he felt he needed to help out his aunt with the bills, but it was frustrating that it was never addressed why he didn’t just get a legitimate job, instead of stealing cars from innocent people. I just didn’t see him as a particularly likeable character and didn’t understand what June saw in him.
Although some of Nick’s chapters bored me a little, I enjoyed the story overall. I loved June’s chapters and enjoyed the road trip aspect of the novel. It was emotional and hard hitting, my favorite type of contemporary, and held my attention throughout. I finished the book quickly because it was always so easy to pick it back up. I recommend this book if you want to read a hard hitting contemporary romance, with healthy mental illness representation.
January 18, 2019
I thought this book would be a bit different than it turned out. The blurb hinted at your typical bad boy/good girl romance but it also blatantly told us this book was about schizophrenia, or at least a girl learning to live with a new diagnosis. Don't get me wrong, I know teens are reckless, impulsive and selfish but I felt with this book the author went a little overboard with all these things for something. Shock factor? Angst? I'm not totally sure to be honest. It just seemed a bit much and almost out of touch of reality for someone suffering the way June was.
I was hooked at first with how June interacted with her best friends Nick and Bethany. We learn right off that June is different and something just seems off with her and these two seem to be her solace. Her protectors. When it came down to it, also the whistle blowers because they knew June help they could no longer give her. These are the kinds of friends everyone deserves. My thoughts still love Bethany for who she is to June and never once did that waver throughout this book, probably one of the few redeemable things in it.
Nick was a huge no for me. At first I loved that I felt like he would be there for June no matter what and always do the right thing by her but boy was I proved wrong. His selfishness knew no bounds. None. Nada. Zip. His needs became more important than hers and because of their feelings he knew he could talk her into anything he felt like he needed/wanted. By the end I felt like he got exactly what he deserved and I had no remorse for him what so ever.
I wish this author would have focused a bit more on June and how she was truly coping with her new diagnosis and how her family and friends were actually doing with it. I thought that was where this story was headed before it took a very wrong turn for me. The ending left so many questions unanswered and I feel just lost without knowing them.
I was hooked at first with how June interacted with her best friends Nick and Bethany. We learn right off that June is different and something just seems off with her and these two seem to be her solace. Her protectors. When it came down to it, also the whistle blowers because they knew June help they could no longer give her. These are the kinds of friends everyone deserves. My thoughts still love Bethany for who she is to June and never once did that waver throughout this book, probably one of the few redeemable things in it.
Nick was a huge no for me. At first I loved that I felt like he would be there for June no matter what and always do the right thing by her but boy was I proved wrong. His selfishness knew no bounds. None. Nada. Zip. His needs became more important than hers and because of their feelings he knew he could talk her into anything he felt like he needed/wanted. By the end I felt like he got exactly what he deserved and I had no remorse for him what so ever.
I wish this author would have focused a bit more on June and how she was truly coping with her new diagnosis and how her family and friends were actually doing with it. I thought that was where this story was headed before it took a very wrong turn for me. The ending left so many questions unanswered and I feel just lost without knowing them.
March 3, 2019
Thank you to Netgalley for a digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review
I really did want to like this book more than I did but I had a few issues with it. First off, I love the idea of a main character with a mental illness and see how authors are able to shine a light to the subject that affects thousands of people each year. I love the idea of bringing awareness to mental illnesses and that's one of the main reasons why I requested this book. At first, was all here for June's supportive friends, Nick and Bethany. I really loved how they tried their best to support June even when they don't know what exactly is going on with their friend. Everyone deserves a friend like that especially if someone is going through something.
Another thing I enjoyed was the process of how June was taken care of and during her diagnosis with a psychiatrist. I liked how the psychiatrist explained to June more or less what's going on and what her symptoms mean and how different it is from other types of schizophrenia (for example: the differences between positive and negative symptoms was explained very well).
However, it felt as if there were two different stories happening at the same time and with each point of view change I felt as if I had to shift from one story from another. Another issue is that it took too long to get to the main point in the plot. It was fast paced but at the same time it was not, if that makes sense. For example, there were so many things going on in both of their lives at once, but what was described in the synopsis didn't occur until the second half of the book.
Overall, I have a love/hate relationship with this book, therefore I gave it a 3 out of 5 stars. It could be improved for the better and it's about a great topic that should be spoken about more.
I really did want to like this book more than I did but I had a few issues with it. First off, I love the idea of a main character with a mental illness and see how authors are able to shine a light to the subject that affects thousands of people each year. I love the idea of bringing awareness to mental illnesses and that's one of the main reasons why I requested this book. At first, was all here for June's supportive friends, Nick and Bethany. I really loved how they tried their best to support June even when they don't know what exactly is going on with their friend. Everyone deserves a friend like that especially if someone is going through something.
Another thing I enjoyed was the process of how June was taken care of and during her diagnosis with a psychiatrist. I liked how the psychiatrist explained to June more or less what's going on and what her symptoms mean and how different it is from other types of schizophrenia (for example: the differences between positive and negative symptoms was explained very well).
However, it felt as if there were two different stories happening at the same time and with each point of view change I felt as if I had to shift from one story from another. Another issue is that it took too long to get to the main point in the plot. It was fast paced but at the same time it was not, if that makes sense. For example, there were so many things going on in both of their lives at once, but what was described in the synopsis didn't occur until the second half of the book.
Overall, I have a love/hate relationship with this book, therefore I gave it a 3 out of 5 stars. It could be improved for the better and it's about a great topic that should be spoken about more.
April 5, 2019
Shalanda Stanley's DROWNING IS INEVITABLE is one of my top underappreciated books, so I was thrilled to receive a copy of Stanley's sophomore title, NICK AND JUNE WERE HERE. Nick and June have been together for years- first as friends, then as something more. June struggles with schizophrenia, an untreated mental illness she's been trying to pretend isn't a problem. Nick and his aunt struggle with poverty, leading Nick to steal cars for cash to pay the bills. As their issues grow bigger and threaten to force them apart, they start to think the only solution is to run away...
Nick and June had my heart from the first chapter. Both are trying so hard to make everything okay, to keep their families from worrying. They put immense pressure on themselves to solve everything and feel their options are limited- if options exist at all. Anyone who has struggled with poverty will immediately connect to Nick's dilemma and understand how helpless amounting overdue bills and eviction notices can make you feel. On June's side, knowing something is wrong inside is absolutely terrifying, especially when you don't know what to do or where to go for help.
On the romance side, Stanley does what the best romance writers do: creates a situation that truly seems impossible to result in a positive ending. I was clenching my book so tightly by the last chapter, not knowing what was best for Nick or June or what would come of them. All in all, the conclusion was highly satisfying and also realistic. I may or may not have been tearing up many times throughout their journey.
Combining intense emotion, powerful love, and dramatic odds, NICK AND JUNE WERE HERE is a perfect addition to shelves alongside Katie McGarry and Emery Lord.
Originally posted at YABC: http://www.yabookscentral.com/yaficti...
Nick and June had my heart from the first chapter. Both are trying so hard to make everything okay, to keep their families from worrying. They put immense pressure on themselves to solve everything and feel their options are limited- if options exist at all. Anyone who has struggled with poverty will immediately connect to Nick's dilemma and understand how helpless amounting overdue bills and eviction notices can make you feel. On June's side, knowing something is wrong inside is absolutely terrifying, especially when you don't know what to do or where to go for help.
On the romance side, Stanley does what the best romance writers do: creates a situation that truly seems impossible to result in a positive ending. I was clenching my book so tightly by the last chapter, not knowing what was best for Nick or June or what would come of them. All in all, the conclusion was highly satisfying and also realistic. I may or may not have been tearing up many times throughout their journey.
Combining intense emotion, powerful love, and dramatic odds, NICK AND JUNE WERE HERE is a perfect addition to shelves alongside Katie McGarry and Emery Lord.
Originally posted at YABC: http://www.yabookscentral.com/yaficti...
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