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Sweet Sixteen
They say roses are the most beautiful… Gin Fielding is counting the days until she escapes the small-town life of Roper, Missouri for college at NYU. She prefers to blend in, though she’s far from invisible. But when she protects a younger student from a bully, the spotlight turns on her in ways she never imagined. I say that every rose has its thorn… The Friday night lights shine bright on Chase Matthews. Roper’s golden boy, Chase can do no wrong, enjoying the small-town celebrity being the star quarterback brings. When Gin defends his little sister against a bully, he decides to lend her his star power and change her senior year in ways she never imagined. But maybe the thorns are part of their beauty. When Gin declines Chase’s invitation to be part of the elite Sweet Sixteen, the repercussions turn both their lives upside down. But amidst the chaos, Gin and Chase find solace in one another. Together, they confront the ugly truth— that sometimes glory has a dark side. ***Warning—Sweet Sixteen is an upper YA book with mature themes and is intended for readers 18+.
228 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 24, 2018
109 people are currently reading
434 people want to read
About the author
Brenda Rothert
89 books2,289 followersBrenda Rothert is the author of more than thirty Contemporary Romance novels. You can learn more about her books at her website, www.brendarothert.com, which features teasers, excerpts and trailers for her books. Follow her here:
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
July 30, 2018
I have previously read several romance books by Brenda Rothert and even though I lately rarely read YA anymore, somehow i picked this one up on a whim and knowing what I might expect from an YA read, entered lightheaded ;) BUT then I was actually surprised by the serious subject dealing in the story, and I changed my mind about this book, altogether.
Ginger/Gin Fielding wants to be in the shadows and just go through her last year of highschool without a fuss. She stays invisible, inside and outside and she likes it that way. She has her two besties that she spends her time with, she's strong willed and smart as a whip but she keeps to herself. Until one day she interferes and stops the bullying from taking place, and instead she gets pumelled and hit.
Of course, the matter turns worse for Gin, when she enters the spotlight of the Roper school's hot shot quarterback Chase Matthews, whose little sister, she saved from bullying.
And one day, just before the Friday game, Chase gives a red rose to Gin, which represents a sort of twisted tradition between girls and football players, called the Sweet sixteen that takes place at the after party, where the chosen girl gets deflowered by the MVP player of the Friday's game, and then all the others players get their way with the girl.
Those parties aren't for the girls, Chase. They're for the football team. Do you really think any girl could honestly enjoy that?
It's a fucked up way to put the pressure for the peers, especially naive, stupidly immature girls to gain the much seeked popularity
And knowing what happens, even though, no one talks about it, neither is even stating their opinions of the wrongness of such a messed up thing - Gin refuses to accept the rose , starting the whole new level of ruckus and shit downfall in Roper highschool.
She's tormented and exposed to bullying and purposely put into the highlight of fucked up meaness and derogatory calls and actions from everyone, until Chase himself doesn't realise how fucking oblivious and blind towards the seriously demented and sickning ways of conduct he was being a part of this fuckery...
I'm an asshole. All my life, I've sworn I wouldn't turn out like my dad, and I just found out that, like him, i'm a complete asshole. i don't even know what to do with the realization.
And yet, he redeems himself by taking the stand against these way, alongside with Gin, whom he starts seeing a different light, and he admires her her strength and her focus...connecting with her on a totally different level, finding his true self as a person, willing to fight for the right cause, the truth and justice...growing with the notion of the righteousness, sense of humbleness, stating the right from wrong and sticking up for himself in the matters of future and the girl who showed him what it means to be a better person, and a whole human being, as they slowly push things towards the ultimate change...
I liked the book, I liked the way the author delt with obviously very grave issue that can, unfortunately, also be reflected and found in real life. And I also loved the portrayl of the main female character - GIN. She was such an amazing female lead and she should be regarded as a role model for young girls, if they ever pick up this book to read. But, that considering, she's also a bit unrealistically strong for that same reason.
Mostly, the girls and boys for that matter, in these tender and sensitive age of hormonal rage and less spine (let's face it) is, in fact the most dangerous age to slip under the influence of the wrong imposed as the right cause it would bring the acceptance and acknowledgment of the majority. It's hard to stand for yourself and say NO in that moment, cause simply in that age. you are NOT yet aware of your own inner strength, you are nearly seeking it out, and usually most of the youngsters slip and make mistakes.
so, I applause the author for being brave to address this issues, cause it's present, it's real and unfortunately, a lot of teens are NOT strong enough to fight the urge of easy way to be accepted - by being among the "popular" crowds and being a part of smth that is notably wrong but they refuse to see it, out of fear of not being accepted. It's fleeting and it's superficial and yes, we all know it...
but there are also teens out there, who ARE as strong willed and firm in their posture and beliefs as they can stay away from these kinds of "wrongness", but I also think that it's a matter of circumstances for these teens, cause usually they don't belong into the popular circle, so they don't interact nor do they get the chance to slip up.
But is that really a question of just being in a situation, we should stay in, and leave it at that?
No.
and that's really where the male character - Chase, comes in...he was the "popular" one, who was blinded by the status and lead though this deed as if there's nothing "wrong" with it BUT until he was faced with a different opinion and a fact that he was pushed into a different circumstance and was made to "see", he repented and he fought against it, feeling remourse and guilt BUT he was ready for a change, to stand and admit that he did wrong, but now he acknowledges it and wants to make better, be better...and it only takes one person to make a change...to start the chain of actions that would lead towards the change for the better.
So, this is more of a YA sport drama, dealing with heavy issues of forced actions masked into smth that should be socialy accepted but it's wrong and despicable to begin with, and it's also a growing of age story with distinguishing notions of acceptance, realizaitons of self-worth and the alternate ways to achieve them.
July 29, 2018
***Actual rating: 4/5 Repentant Stars***
Before persuading you to read Sweet Sixteen, all I can say about this book is that it’s seriously a brilliant piece of writing. The story aims to let the readers know how wrong some of the seemingly typical behaviors in high schools are and how important it is to respect others. I can go on and on about all the reasons I love this book but I’ll try to make them as short as possible. Here we go!
For starters, it all begins with Sweet Sixteen, a tradition which the captain of Roper High School football team will hand out a rose to a girl “specially selected by the teammates” in the morning of their weekly game day and she’s going to be gangbangedin public in the party if Roper wins. So basically, Sweet Sixteen is the one-way ticket for girls to skyrocket their popularity…or at least that’s what the footballers think. Thus, when Ginger “Gin” defends the star captain of the football team, Chase’s, little sister from the bullies, she’s expected to be the next rose receiver as a thank-you gift from Chase. Guess what? Our gothic, badass Gin refuses to accept the rose and what’s more, she pretty much turns Chase down in front of the entire school.
When I first read the part about Sweet Sixteen, I had no idea it was such a sick and perverted tradition in the high school culture. Although I’ve never seen anything like that in our (mostly conservative) schools here, I’ve heard similar activities in high schools around the world, particularly in the western countries. It never fails to shock me whenever I learn someone doesn’t know how to respect a girl’s body or, for God’s sake, anyone’s body. High school boys actually treat sex as an emotional outlet and they really think all the girls enjoy everything during the process, which is so wrong in many levels.
That’s why I’m totally impressed by Gin’s courage of standing up for those in need and for voicing out what she has in mind about the whole Sweet Sixteen tradition. She isn’t afraid of NOT compromising with Chase and simply following the crowd. She’s brave enough to speak up and puts integrity before anything else.
To my astonishment, for someone as high-maintenance as Gin, I’m surprised to find that she’s had a huge crush on Chase since forever. Despite the fact that he’s the one giving the rose every week (and is probably deeply involved in the Sweet Sixteen), Gin somehow sees through his disguise as a tough guy. There are many intricate layers of secrets in Chase’s life and before he knows it, Gin has already dug into them step by step.
With the love blossoms between Chase and Gin, he gradually learns to put himself in others’ shoes and sees those he used to take granted for from Gin’s perspective. I really, really love how much Chase’s changed and matured because of Gin’s positive influence and I’m more than happy to witness the character development I’m hoping for in stories like this. Besides, Gin also shows the unneglectable power of an introvert throughout the book, making me proud of her for no particular reason.
Aside from the obvious sex-ed, this book addresses other common problems in not only the high schools but also the society nowadays, including discrimination against races, genders, ethnic groups, colors of people, and other serious issues like drug and alcohol abuse. I admit I haven’t read anything combining all of these important yet usually ignored problems in one story and I’m very satisfied with the overall plot. Nothing feels rushed or unfinished and each character finds their way of dealing with their personal demons. Hence, generally speaking, Sweet Sixteen really brings out its A game in the Coming-of-Age category.
All in all, I have a fabulous time reading Sweet Sixteen because the details of the story are really well-thought-out and the characters are equally lovable. The only reason I don’t give this book a solid 5-star is because once Chase changes his thought about Sweet Sixteen thanks to Gin’s reminder, his relationship with Gin seems a bit predictable and so is the ending of the story. I don’t know what to expect at the end of the book but it’s just not it. Anyway, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND Sweet Sixteen to everyone in that it tackles several social problems and educates us how to take them seriously.
***Thanks to InkslingerPR and the author for kindly offering me an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.***
And I’m starting to realize the problems at our school didn’t come so much from individuals, but from a culture that worshiped football and thought that consent was a black-and-white, yes-or-no issue.
Before persuading you to read Sweet Sixteen, all I can say about this book is that it’s seriously a brilliant piece of writing. The story aims to let the readers know how wrong some of the seemingly typical behaviors in high schools are and how important it is to respect others. I can go on and on about all the reasons I love this book but I’ll try to make them as short as possible. Here we go!
For starters, it all begins with Sweet Sixteen, a tradition which the captain of Roper High School football team will hand out a rose to a girl “specially selected by the teammates” in the morning of their weekly game day and she’s going to be gangbanged
Mom smiles. “You know why you belong here, Gin? It’s because you’re not like everyone else. You were the first girl who was brave enough to say no to that rose.”
I smile back. “I think my exact words were ‘you can shove that rose up your ass.’”
“That’s my girl. And now other girls know that they can say no too. And those arrogant little pricks on the football team know not every girl wants to play their game. You weren’t made to be invisible, Gin. Look at the way you stood up for Cassie Matthews when she was being picked on. You were made to change the world. And Roper is where you’re starting.”
When I first read the part about Sweet Sixteen, I had no idea it was such a sick and perverted tradition in the high school culture. Although I’ve never seen anything like that in our (mostly conservative) schools here, I’ve heard similar activities in high schools around the world, particularly in the western countries. It never fails to shock me whenever I learn someone doesn’t know how to respect a girl’s body or, for God’s sake, anyone’s body. High school boys actually treat sex as an emotional outlet and they really think all the girls enjoy everything during the process, which is so wrong in many levels.
That’s why I’m totally impressed by Gin’s courage of standing up for those in need and for voicing out what she has in mind about the whole Sweet Sixteen tradition. She isn’t afraid of NOT compromising with Chase and simply following the crowd. She’s brave enough to speak up and puts integrity before anything else.
I’ll never be like Chase. I may not be an experienced sex goddess, but when I do have sex, it’ll mean something. People treat sex like entertainment, and I don’t get it. It’s the most intimate thing you can do with another person.
To my astonishment, for someone as high-maintenance as Gin, I’m surprised to find that she’s had a huge crush on Chase since forever. Despite the fact that he’s the one giving the rose every week (and is probably deeply involved in the Sweet Sixteen), Gin somehow sees through his disguise as a tough guy. There are many intricate layers of secrets in Chase’s life and before he knows it, Gin has already dug into them step by step.
I’m uptight; he’s outgoing. I have two friends, and he has two hundred. I’m an artist, and he’s an athlete. I hate Roper High School and everything it stands for, and he’s pretty much the poster boy for it.
With the love blossoms between Chase and Gin, he gradually learns to put himself in others’ shoes and sees those he used to take granted for from Gin’s perspective. I really, really love how much Chase’s changed and matured because of Gin’s positive influence and I’m more than happy to witness the character development I’m hoping for in stories like this. Besides, Gin also shows the unneglectable power of an introvert throughout the book, making me proud of her for no particular reason.
When I start up the truck and put it in drive, I know there’s no way I’m going to that party. I’ve done more than enough damage already.
I can’t even text Gin tonight. If I tell her I see now what she’s been saying all along about the Sweet Sixteen, her ‘I told you so’s’ might make me actually throw up.
Aside from the obvious sex-ed, this book addresses other common problems in not only the high schools but also the society nowadays, including discrimination against races, genders, ethnic groups, colors of people, and other serious issues like drug and alcohol abuse. I admit I haven’t read anything combining all of these important yet usually ignored problems in one story and I’m very satisfied with the overall plot. Nothing feels rushed or unfinished and each character finds their way of dealing with their personal demons. Hence, generally speaking, Sweet Sixteen really brings out its A game in the Coming-of-Age category.
All in all, I have a fabulous time reading Sweet Sixteen because the details of the story are really well-thought-out and the characters are equally lovable. The only reason I don’t give this book a solid 5-star is because once Chase changes his thought about Sweet Sixteen thanks to Gin’s reminder, his relationship with Gin seems a bit predictable and so is the ending of the story. I don’t know what to expect at the end of the book but it’s just not it. Anyway, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND Sweet Sixteen to everyone in that it tackles several social problems and educates us how to take them seriously.
***Thanks to InkslingerPR and the author for kindly offering me an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.***
July 27, 2018
Livro lindo! Amei. Bem escrito, com uma realidade implícita que foi incrível.
Vale a leitura!
Vale a leitura!
September 4, 2018
So...this book kinda slaps you with a WTF factor pretty early on and my face was just like...
The fact that an actual happens once a week during football season is just so disturbing. I have read some pretty outlandish/absurd scenarios in books before, but this one might take the cake. And the fact that not ONE teacher/parent/person of authority cared enough to check in on this or put a stop to it (it was heavily implied that at least one adult knew about what was going on at these parties)...I cannot. And I'm sorry, not one young adult thought to stand up to this? Gin was the only one? Seriously?
Chase as the H was a joke- he was SO clueless throughout and I get that his whole ark was ~redemption~ but still took part in the act, really thought that Gin wanted a rose (like truly thought that that was the epitome of all HS-to get a rose from the football team to be . SIGH.), and he basically had to be hit squarely on the head with logic before he got why the hell that act is offensive. Consensual MY ASS.
So caution with this book if
I did really enjoy the writing of this book and Gin was kickass (she is the ONLY character I liked. Well, she and her mom...the only sane ones of the whole damn thing). It was the subject matter and shitty characters that made my head roll with disgust and anger.
The fact that an actual happens once a week during football season is just so disturbing. I have read some pretty outlandish/absurd scenarios in books before, but this one might take the cake. And the fact that not ONE teacher/parent/person of authority cared enough to check in on this or put a stop to it (it was heavily implied that at least one adult knew about what was going on at these parties)...I cannot. And I'm sorry, not one young adult thought to stand up to this? Gin was the only one? Seriously?
Chase as the H was a joke- he was SO clueless throughout and I get that his whole ark was ~redemption~ but still took part in the act, really thought that Gin wanted a rose (like truly thought that that was the epitome of all HS-to get a rose from the football team to be . SIGH.), and he basically had to be hit squarely on the head with logic before he got why the hell that act is offensive. Consensual MY ASS.
So caution with this book if
I did really enjoy the writing of this book and Gin was kickass (she is the ONLY character I liked. Well, she and her mom...the only sane ones of the whole damn thing). It was the subject matter and shitty characters that made my head roll with disgust and anger.
May 4, 2021
I love BR writing
Her hockey player are a re read 1st choice
I m not very fond of teenage drama being the mother of 15 boy and 11 girl
BUT
this was good very good
She had the courage to deal with very serious stuff like initiation rites sexual harassment rape binge eating suicide and here come the diamond the heroin was SO strong and well raised and firm in here position ...maybe too much near to the threshold of unrealistic
Chapeaux for the nice try
I star less for heroine virginity and a little too cheesy and easy solutions of a very thigh situation
1 star less for hero family drama and I would have liked more grovelling
3 stars
Her hockey player are a re read 1st choice
I m not very fond of teenage drama being the mother of 15 boy and 11 girl
BUT
this was good very good
She had the courage to deal with very serious stuff like initiation rites sexual harassment rape binge eating suicide and here come the diamond the heroin was SO strong and well raised and firm in here position ...maybe too much near to the threshold of unrealistic
Chapeaux for the nice try
I star less for heroine virginity and a little too cheesy and easy solutions of a very thigh situation
1 star less for hero family drama and I would have liked more grovelling
3 stars
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 24, 2018
Gin is in her last year of high school and has her sights set on attending NYU after graduating. She lives with her free spirited, open minded mum and has her very own unique style. Some people think she is goth-like due to her choice of hair colour and clothing choices, some think she is a lesbian and other don’t know what to think of her.
Gin prefers to go by unnoticed by her classmates, she would like to be considered a wallflower and receiving any unwanted attention is not something she enjoys. The other girls at school are more concerned about popularity and improving their social standing among their peers.
Like a lot of high schools, everything revolves around the revered football team. The girls are willing to give up their virtue to any of them because it will give them recognition and make them feel like they were ‘chosen.’ It makes Gin feel physically ill that these girls are willing to give away something so personal to a douchebag football player.
Leading this pack of guys is the quarterback and captain, Chase Matthews. There are certain traditions that the team follow each season and it’s not until Gin challenges Chase on one of them that he begins to see things in a different perspective. He is guilty of taking part in some questionable activites in the past and the realisation that he may be as bad as the father he despises is enough to make him want to change.
The common demoninator in all of these changes is Gin. This firmly establishes a target on her back which makes her plans of sailing through her final year at school unnoticed the completely opposite experience. And boy, high school kids can be a bunch of cruel little shits!
Gin has had a massive crush on Chase since she was in junior high and for the first time ever, he really notices her. There is so much more to him than she realised. Chase is feeling things he has never experienced before either.
‘For the first time in my life, I’m attracted to a girl because of everything she is that has nothing to do with her looks.’
This was a very YA story with two people experiencing a lot of firsts together as they navigated their way across the bridge of adolescence in what became a very eventful final year of high school. A great read from Brenda Rothert.
Gin prefers to go by unnoticed by her classmates, she would like to be considered a wallflower and receiving any unwanted attention is not something she enjoys. The other girls at school are more concerned about popularity and improving their social standing among their peers.
Like a lot of high schools, everything revolves around the revered football team. The girls are willing to give up their virtue to any of them because it will give them recognition and make them feel like they were ‘chosen.’ It makes Gin feel physically ill that these girls are willing to give away something so personal to a douchebag football player.
Leading this pack of guys is the quarterback and captain, Chase Matthews. There are certain traditions that the team follow each season and it’s not until Gin challenges Chase on one of them that he begins to see things in a different perspective. He is guilty of taking part in some questionable activites in the past and the realisation that he may be as bad as the father he despises is enough to make him want to change.
The common demoninator in all of these changes is Gin. This firmly establishes a target on her back which makes her plans of sailing through her final year at school unnoticed the completely opposite experience. And boy, high school kids can be a bunch of cruel little shits!
Gin has had a massive crush on Chase since she was in junior high and for the first time ever, he really notices her. There is so much more to him than she realised. Chase is feeling things he has never experienced before either.
‘For the first time in my life, I’m attracted to a girl because of everything she is that has nothing to do with her looks.’
This was a very YA story with two people experiencing a lot of firsts together as they navigated their way across the bridge of adolescence in what became a very eventful final year of high school. A great read from Brenda Rothert.
October 1, 2018
** Contains Spoilers **
This book absolutely boiled my blood! It deals with serious subject matter (consent, rape, etc.) and was completely tone deaf, especially with everything that is going on in the U.S. right now. The book started out interesting enough and then we find out about the longstanding tradition of the football team to bestowing a rose to a special girl before a game. Seems sweet, until you find out the rose is is given out to virgin girls who are publicly gang raped by the football team after the game. Oh, and that the male romantic lead of the story (Chase) leads this little ritual and has participated 32 times!!! I was completely turned off him from that point on. I don't care that he finally realized this was wrong after Gin called him out on it (although, why he needed another person his own age who was obviously was able to learn right from wrong without participating in gang rape and then being called out). He is not what we should be celebrating as "romantic" lead and the fact the author choose to make him so made me beyond angry and disappointed.
Chase (and the author) justify his behavior by saying he grew up with an abusive father so he had no role model, and the girls always had the right to say no. However, the fact that the "consent" for the gang rape came from UNDERAGE girls who were DRUNK and PRESSURED to say yes means it is not consent. Let me say that again for the people in the back - THAT IS NOT CONSENT!!! Add in the fact the lovely gang rapes are filmed make it child pornography since these girls (and guys) are underage. And no one in the town (parents, teachers, authorities, etc.) had a problem with this ongoing tradition that has been occurring for 20+ years?! The fact that not one of those boys realized what they were doing was wrong until Gin called out Chase is sickening. I'm sorry, but I feel like they should've realized long before that publicly fucking a teenage virgin (while filming a lot of the time) and then allowing 12 or your teammates to do the same was wrong.
I know the author meant for us readers to see Chase as an anti-hero who learns from his mistakes and therefore become worthy of the female lead, but in this case it was impossible for me. I'm not looking to find redemption in a guy who participated in this disgusting ritual over and over again. Great that he learned that this who thing was wrong and helped put a stop to it, but that doesn't erase the fact that he was involved previously and face no consequences whatsoever. A few of his teammates getting vaguely mad at him for stopping things is nothing compare to what those girls went through, or even Gin went through for simply choosing not to participate. Chase still got to be the football star, still got his full ride scholarship and still got the girl. He faced no consequences for his actions.... which, sadly, makes that the most believable part of the whole story since we see it happen in the real world more often than not in cases of sexual assault.
This story was utterly disgusting to me and truly dangerous in my opinion. That this is categorized under the contemporary romance genre is alarming to me on ever level. I don't think it's romantic that a rapist can be redeemed and become the romantic hero. The whole thing plays into the "boys will be boys" mentality instead of holding them to a higher (human!) standard. And most damaging, this story completely ignores what actual consent should be.
I would rate this with negative stars if I could!
This book absolutely boiled my blood! It deals with serious subject matter (consent, rape, etc.) and was completely tone deaf, especially with everything that is going on in the U.S. right now. The book started out interesting enough and then we find out about the longstanding tradition of the football team to bestowing a rose to a special girl before a game. Seems sweet, until you find out the rose is is given out to virgin girls who are publicly gang raped by the football team after the game. Oh, and that the male romantic lead of the story (Chase) leads this little ritual and has participated 32 times!!! I was completely turned off him from that point on. I don't care that he finally realized this was wrong after Gin called him out on it (although, why he needed another person his own age who was obviously was able to learn right from wrong without participating in gang rape and then being called out). He is not what we should be celebrating as "romantic" lead and the fact the author choose to make him so made me beyond angry and disappointed.
Chase (and the author) justify his behavior by saying he grew up with an abusive father so he had no role model, and the girls always had the right to say no. However, the fact that the "consent" for the gang rape came from UNDERAGE girls who were DRUNK and PRESSURED to say yes means it is not consent. Let me say that again for the people in the back - THAT IS NOT CONSENT!!! Add in the fact the lovely gang rapes are filmed make it child pornography since these girls (and guys) are underage. And no one in the town (parents, teachers, authorities, etc.) had a problem with this ongoing tradition that has been occurring for 20+ years?! The fact that not one of those boys realized what they were doing was wrong until Gin called out Chase is sickening. I'm sorry, but I feel like they should've realized long before that publicly fucking a teenage virgin (while filming a lot of the time) and then allowing 12 or your teammates to do the same was wrong.
I know the author meant for us readers to see Chase as an anti-hero who learns from his mistakes and therefore become worthy of the female lead, but in this case it was impossible for me. I'm not looking to find redemption in a guy who participated in this disgusting ritual over and over again. Great that he learned that this who thing was wrong and helped put a stop to it, but that doesn't erase the fact that he was involved previously and face no consequences whatsoever. A few of his teammates getting vaguely mad at him for stopping things is nothing compare to what those girls went through, or even Gin went through for simply choosing not to participate. Chase still got to be the football star, still got his full ride scholarship and still got the girl. He faced no consequences for his actions.... which, sadly, makes that the most believable part of the whole story since we see it happen in the real world more often than not in cases of sexual assault.
This story was utterly disgusting to me and truly dangerous in my opinion. That this is categorized under the contemporary romance genre is alarming to me on ever level. I don't think it's romantic that a rapist can be redeemed and become the romantic hero. The whole thing plays into the "boys will be boys" mentality instead of holding them to a higher (human!) standard. And most damaging, this story completely ignores what actual consent should be.
I would rate this with negative stars if I could!
May 5, 2021
Okay so straight up?
Chase is not at all what I though his character would be
Tbh you can’t give me a character like him and expect me
To feel something for him.
I mean he takes the dumb jock vibe to a hole new level
It’s not even that I could chalk it up him being a manwhore
I mean... it was rape
There is no well they where just drunk or the girls didn’t say no
But Jesus it was disgusting your telling me that just because he’s a boy he can’t figure out that a girl who’s a virgin obviously isn’t going to enjoy or receive any pleasure for being with 12. Guys?
Sweetie boo boo what?
Like one of the girls who comes back from rehab literally had to spell it out for him and be like
“ chase do you really think a girl can enjoy her first time that way”
And honestly I expect more of a reaction but there really wasn’t one
He was all man I feel
So guilty..... dude okay I give you that maybe you thought the girls where I go it fine
But really you basically participate in a rape gang for three years here... wtaf
And gin was really cool like Her character was a vibe
Until the author made her have a crush on chase and I wanted to die
See I thought okay maybe that’ll disappear once she finds out the guy she likes is apart of rape culture that she’s so against
But nope she knows but likes him anyway
Jesus the girl was dumb when is came to the cute popular guy
Like she even thinks that’s she’s not like other girls
And a part of her is in complete shock that he chose her because his attention feels good but she’s not his usual typ
Tf girl?
This isn’t some dark romance it’s supposed to be
YA/NA contemporary
So the fact that she’s down playing what these dudes are doing and trying to make chase a victim is just... stupid writing imho
Like girl... boo ... he’ raped some girls
And it’s passed off as boys being boys and not knowing better
While gin is getting butterflies over him 🙄
Two stars because I kinda loved the scene where he try’s to get gin to be there next girl as a... “favor” yea he’s really that dumb
And he’s like so excited because he legit thinks he’s doing this great thing and wow she’s going to be so popular
I was like.... This dumb as hell bishhh is that much of an idiot huh?
Chase is not at all what I though his character would be
Tbh you can’t give me a character like him and expect me
To feel something for him.
I mean he takes the dumb jock vibe to a hole new level
It’s not even that I could chalk it up him being a manwhore
I mean... it was rape
There is no well they where just drunk or the girls didn’t say no
But Jesus it was disgusting your telling me that just because he’s a boy he can’t figure out that a girl who’s a virgin obviously isn’t going to enjoy or receive any pleasure for being with 12. Guys?
Sweetie boo boo what?
Like one of the girls who comes back from rehab literally had to spell it out for him and be like
“ chase do you really think a girl can enjoy her first time that way”
And honestly I expect more of a reaction but there really wasn’t one
He was all man I feel
So guilty..... dude okay I give you that maybe you thought the girls where I go it fine
But really you basically participate in a rape gang for three years here... wtaf
And gin was really cool like Her character was a vibe
Until the author made her have a crush on chase and I wanted to die
See I thought okay maybe that’ll disappear once she finds out the guy she likes is apart of rape culture that she’s so against
But nope she knows but likes him anyway
Jesus the girl was dumb when is came to the cute popular guy
Like she even thinks that’s she’s not like other girls
And a part of her is in complete shock that he chose her because his attention feels good but she’s not his usual typ
Tf girl?
This isn’t some dark romance it’s supposed to be
YA/NA contemporary
So the fact that she’s down playing what these dudes are doing and trying to make chase a victim is just... stupid writing imho
Like girl... boo ... he’ raped some girls
And it’s passed off as boys being boys and not knowing better
While gin is getting butterflies over him 🙄
Two stars because I kinda loved the scene where he try’s to get gin to be there next girl as a... “favor” yea he’s really that dumb
And he’s like so excited because he legit thinks he’s doing this great thing and wow she’s going to be so popular
I was like.... This dumb as hell bishhh is that much of an idiot huh?
August 22, 2018
O livro prende bastante e a escrita da autora é bem fluída.
Eu realmente adorei a Gin em contra partida não sei que pensar do Chace ainda.
É uma boa leitura pra passar o tempo e bem rápida.
Eu realmente adorei a Gin em contra partida não sei que pensar do Chace ainda.
É uma boa leitura pra passar o tempo e bem rápida.
July 21, 2018
I was definitely not expecting this book to turn out the way it did.
Yes, I agree with the warning, although this book takes place in a high school setting, it has many, many dark tones, and strongly recommended for readers 18+. That being said, I wish I could give this book more than 5 Stars.
Sweet Sixteen takes you on quite a ride. It’s going to show you bullying, racism, sexism, objectification, physical and substance abuse,harassment of all types, the after effects that some of those things can lead to... Brenda Rothert blends that in such a painful yet beautiful way.
Roper High school is part of a small town with a HUGE football following. It’s the typical town that worships the ground these football players walk on.
Every football season, before game night, the football captain must give a rose to a willing girl to become part of the sacrifice after winning the game. It’s a tradition that’s been in place since the 90’s. All the football players get into it and all the girls beg for it because it is a one way ticket to popularity.
In comes Gin, who is only trying to keep to herself in her last year of high school. She doesn’t follow the high school norms, nor does she care to.
She sees a girl being bullied while a small crown watches, laughs, and records. Gin steps in, defends the girl, and ends up getting a beat down by that bully. Because the little girl that was being bullied is the sister of the captain of the football team, the only way he thinks to repay her back is to give her what all girls in school want; a one way ticket to popularity. But, in baggy clothes, gothic makeup, Gin has always that she is unconcerned with what anybody thinks. Fast forward to the Friday where our football captain, Chase, is to give Gin the rose in preps to their winning ritual, where she blatantly tell him and the football team to shove it up their asses. She refuses to degrade herself for some ritual the girls see as an honor but in reality is just an objectification.
This is where our story starts. Where one student thought he was helping another into popularity, turns into the biggest backlash where students give Gin the worst and teachers and parents turn a blind eye.
I really loved this story. It shows us so much on how standing up for what you believe in is better than being a sheep and follow the crowd. Taking a stand and staying strong will always be better than giving in, especially to something so morally wrong.
Yes, I agree with the warning, although this book takes place in a high school setting, it has many, many dark tones, and strongly recommended for readers 18+. That being said, I wish I could give this book more than 5 Stars.
Sweet Sixteen takes you on quite a ride. It’s going to show you bullying, racism, sexism, objectification, physical and substance abuse,harassment of all types, the after effects that some of those things can lead to... Brenda Rothert blends that in such a painful yet beautiful way.
Roper High school is part of a small town with a HUGE football following. It’s the typical town that worships the ground these football players walk on.
Every football season, before game night, the football captain must give a rose to a willing girl to become part of the sacrifice after winning the game. It’s a tradition that’s been in place since the 90’s. All the football players get into it and all the girls beg for it because it is a one way ticket to popularity.
In comes Gin, who is only trying to keep to herself in her last year of high school. She doesn’t follow the high school norms, nor does she care to.
She sees a girl being bullied while a small crown watches, laughs, and records. Gin steps in, defends the girl, and ends up getting a beat down by that bully. Because the little girl that was being bullied is the sister of the captain of the football team, the only way he thinks to repay her back is to give her what all girls in school want; a one way ticket to popularity. But, in baggy clothes, gothic makeup, Gin has always that she is unconcerned with what anybody thinks. Fast forward to the Friday where our football captain, Chase, is to give Gin the rose in preps to their winning ritual, where she blatantly tell him and the football team to shove it up their asses. She refuses to degrade herself for some ritual the girls see as an honor but in reality is just an objectification.
This is where our story starts. Where one student thought he was helping another into popularity, turns into the biggest backlash where students give Gin the worst and teachers and parents turn a blind eye.
I really loved this story. It shows us so much on how standing up for what you believe in is better than being a sheep and follow the crowd. Taking a stand and staying strong will always be better than giving in, especially to something so morally wrong.
August 8, 2018
Brenda Rothert takes the high school narrative and turns it on its head. Sweet Sixteen delves into some seriously hard-to-read issues with effortless grace and style. I adored Gin and her self-reliant, unwilling-to-bend-to-the-crowd attitude and how both she and Chase grew and opened up throughout the book.
There are issues touched upon in SS that need to be addressed, that aren't exactly easy to tackle in even upper YA or NA. Rothert, however, is a strong, gifted author who brings the narrative of high school difficulties to the surface, displaying their import to an audience that simplly will be unable to look away.
I loved the writing, the beautifully arching characters and the sweet resolution that had me wanting to go back immediately and reread.
Highly recommended.
There are issues touched upon in SS that need to be addressed, that aren't exactly easy to tackle in even upper YA or NA. Rothert, however, is a strong, gifted author who brings the narrative of high school difficulties to the surface, displaying their import to an audience that simplly will be unable to look away.
I loved the writing, the beautifully arching characters and the sweet resolution that had me wanting to go back immediately and reread.
Highly recommended.
July 27, 2018
Sweet Sixteen was not what I expected it really took me by surprise in the best possible way and now I need to try and put words on paper that will do this journey justice.
Roper High School is how I imagine high schools in small towns right across the US to be where the football team are God’s they get away with things no one else would and the whole town turn out to watch their games putting them on the highest pedestal possible. The football team have a tradition that before every game the captain gives a rose to a girl who is willing to become part of a sacrifice because after winnng each game the team have a party where nothing is banned and everything is swept under the table the next day when the clean up crew come in with no questions asked.
Sweet Sixteen is the story of one girl standing up to the football captain not only saying no to the Rose but also making him see the tradition that’s been going on since the 90’s is wrong, this is a journey about two kids who are opposites falling in love, growing strong together and making Roper High School a safer place for everyone. I loved how these characters grew as the story unfolded it was a book that took over I couldn’t put it down, it’s a beautifully written story that in parts is very dark and I think it can only be recommended to 18+ readers. Brenda Rothert shows us just how diverse her writing talents are with Sweet Sixteen it’s like nothing I have read before.
Roper High School is how I imagine high schools in small towns right across the US to be where the football team are God’s they get away with things no one else would and the whole town turn out to watch their games putting them on the highest pedestal possible. The football team have a tradition that before every game the captain gives a rose to a girl who is willing to become part of a sacrifice because after winnng each game the team have a party where nothing is banned and everything is swept under the table the next day when the clean up crew come in with no questions asked.
Sweet Sixteen is the story of one girl standing up to the football captain not only saying no to the Rose but also making him see the tradition that’s been going on since the 90’s is wrong, this is a journey about two kids who are opposites falling in love, growing strong together and making Roper High School a safer place for everyone. I loved how these characters grew as the story unfolded it was a book that took over I couldn’t put it down, it’s a beautifully written story that in parts is very dark and I think it can only be recommended to 18+ readers. Brenda Rothert shows us just how diverse her writing talents are with Sweet Sixteen it’s like nothing I have read before.
July 23, 2018
Thought and discussion provoking story to be read. Brenda Rothert tells a story unique to her style and makes you believe in the progression and outcome.
This is not what you think when it comes to Y/A romance. It goes beyond romance and carries a heavy load in the subject matters it addresses as the storytelling progresses. The characters are carefully crafted in a jarring reality still facing youth regarding attitudes towards sex and gender roles.
For my full review, go to my blog post here
If you have questions regarding triggers for sensitive readers, please click on the spoiler link only for my personal thoughts. Be aware this is storyline spoiler.
4.5 out of 5 stars
This is not what you think when it comes to Y/A romance. It goes beyond romance and carries a heavy load in the subject matters it addresses as the storytelling progresses. The characters are carefully crafted in a jarring reality still facing youth regarding attitudes towards sex and gender roles.
For my full review, go to my blog post here
If you have questions regarding triggers for sensitive readers, please click on the spoiler link only for my personal thoughts. Be aware this is storyline spoiler.
4.5 out of 5 stars
July 25, 2018
Gin Chase
This is like no other book I ever read. The subject matter you may think was definitely not an everyday subject matter to read about but let me tell you can’t book the bloody book down once you start.
High school shenanigans, high school on goings so unbelievable. How do you say no to supposedly the greatest honour a girl could experience? It is it really? Not for Gin. Being the first girl ever to say no she has to deal with the consequences of her decision. But little do she know her decision to say no will have a huge impact and may change the future of the school all together. But it will also change the one person who put her in that position.
Chase, once the most popular kid in his school finds himself questioning everything he thought was just a fun game. But after getting to know Gin more on a personal level he soon learns there is more to life than being popular and giving out roses for a girl to become part of the sweet sixteen club.
Amazing. Brilliant. Like nothing else I read before. A definite recommend and a definite 5 star read.
This is like no other book I ever read. The subject matter you may think was definitely not an everyday subject matter to read about but let me tell you can’t book the bloody book down once you start.
High school shenanigans, high school on goings so unbelievable. How do you say no to supposedly the greatest honour a girl could experience? It is it really? Not for Gin. Being the first girl ever to say no she has to deal with the consequences of her decision. But little do she know her decision to say no will have a huge impact and may change the future of the school all together. But it will also change the one person who put her in that position.
Chase, once the most popular kid in his school finds himself questioning everything he thought was just a fun game. But after getting to know Gin more on a personal level he soon learns there is more to life than being popular and giving out roses for a girl to become part of the sweet sixteen club.
Amazing. Brilliant. Like nothing else I read before. A definite recommend and a definite 5 star read.
July 24, 2018
First of all the cover is just gorgeous! Second of all the story is not like anything I’ve read before. Love the words in this story. From beginning to end I could. It out this book down. Great story, I would recommend you read it. If you have a daughter in high school I recommend she read it also, to know how a teen boy should treat girls.
August 21, 2018
I have to say that I only finished half this book (55%) and then jumped to the epilogue. The story line of this book floored me and not in a good way. I had to rate this book because I am what it looks like the only one who didn't enjoy this book. This book was ridiculous. I can't get over the fact this this book was about gang bangs and group sex from high school students. I may be naïve but really giving one girl a rose on game day and then that girl screwing the football team...WTF!! Plus that this has been going on for years and years is bat shit crazy. This book was just beyond wrong.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 24, 2018
Gin and Chase are everything!
Wow, Brenda has done it again. I was hooked from this story from the beginning when it started off at Inklo. So I was very happy to see how their story ended. I love how Gin stands up for herself and others and never changed for others. And finally Chase saw the wrongs and slowly changed everything he believed was right into the right direction. I recommend for everyone to check this story out you won't regret it.
Wow, Brenda has done it again. I was hooked from this story from the beginning when it started off at Inklo. So I was very happy to see how their story ended. I love how Gin stands up for herself and others and never changed for others. And finally Chase saw the wrongs and slowly changed everything he believed was right into the right direction. I recommend for everyone to check this story out you won't regret it.
August 28, 2019
Upon reading the summary about the book, I (perhaps obliviously) had no idea what the "Sweet Sixteen" element of the story would entail. However, in spite of its dark turn through serious themes, I absolutely loved this book. I appreciate Gin's character in that she holds true to her morals, especially through the awful treatment she receives, and how her strength in herself and her values inspires an honest change in Chase. I think it could have been easy to craft a storyline in which Gin caves under the pressure of the bullying, or where Chase's character development does not come from honest hardship himself, but the fact that this story doesn't follow this easy pattern is what makes it so special. I appreciate that Chase doesn't just change his tune because others tell him the distinctions between right and wrong in his actions, but because he sees the deep impact that is actions have on himself and on Gin and Michelle. I think the sincerity of the novel is indebted to the fact that Chase had to experience a lot of backlash on his own actions, and not just Gin. The sincere hardships and bullying in the plot is what makes a character like Gin so relatable and inspiring, and it is what allows the reader to develop an actual appreciation for Chase and the lengths to which he goes to grow and stand up for what he believes in, as opposed to just loving the super cute football player. I think this book is honest and tackles several dark themes with grace and truth. It forces the entire town to take a serious look at their priorities and stand up for what is right and not just for what is "normal." All in all, I really enjoyed and appreciated this book.
Note: I was gifted this copy for an honest review, but I am seriously contemplating reading it again because I thoroughly enjoyed it
Note: I was gifted this copy for an honest review, but I am seriously contemplating reading it again because I thoroughly enjoyed it
July 21, 2018
A girl who's true to herself. Knows her mind and isn't afraid to stick up for her beliefs is refreshing and mesmerising to those who look and listen.
A jock who walks the walk and talks the talk. Parties with the boys and is part of a much eagerly anticipated game match ritual.
The rose.. is but a pretty flower to most, but to the students at Roper High School its the ticket into the all exclusive sweet sixteen.
How do these three mingle and co exist well that's what this book is all about...
Gin isn't memorable in comparison to the cheerleaders. She has dyed black hair and is very fond of her black eyeliner. Her clothes aren't hip nor stylish. She tries to blend into the background just wanting to survive the remainder of high school.
Chase is the opposite. He's the quaterback and team captain. Much loved and adored by all. The leader of the pack so to speak.
Who stands up for the little guys, the underdog no one in a high school situation might be your answer, but here that's wrong Gin does and that's how her path crosses with Chase.
I was enthralled and completely captivated by the beauty within this book. The passion of belief and the repercussions of said actions had me sat on the edge of my seat praying for the underdog, hoping against hope for her to survive the hostile school environment.
Having read the acknowledgements at the end of this book though I don't know them I feel grateful to KP Simmon and Rachel Van Dyken for encouraging Brenda to write this book because it's utterly fantastic and I think people can learn so much from Gin and her experiences.
I'm so glad I gave a new author a try. I had no expectations going into this but came out the other side with the fullest of hearts and nothing but praise.
A jock who walks the walk and talks the talk. Parties with the boys and is part of a much eagerly anticipated game match ritual.
The rose.. is but a pretty flower to most, but to the students at Roper High School its the ticket into the all exclusive sweet sixteen.
How do these three mingle and co exist well that's what this book is all about...
Gin isn't memorable in comparison to the cheerleaders. She has dyed black hair and is very fond of her black eyeliner. Her clothes aren't hip nor stylish. She tries to blend into the background just wanting to survive the remainder of high school.
Chase is the opposite. He's the quaterback and team captain. Much loved and adored by all. The leader of the pack so to speak.
Who stands up for the little guys, the underdog no one in a high school situation might be your answer, but here that's wrong Gin does and that's how her path crosses with Chase.
I was enthralled and completely captivated by the beauty within this book. The passion of belief and the repercussions of said actions had me sat on the edge of my seat praying for the underdog, hoping against hope for her to survive the hostile school environment.
Having read the acknowledgements at the end of this book though I don't know them I feel grateful to KP Simmon and Rachel Van Dyken for encouraging Brenda to write this book because it's utterly fantastic and I think people can learn so much from Gin and her experiences.
I'm so glad I gave a new author a try. I had no expectations going into this but came out the other side with the fullest of hearts and nothing but praise.
July 30, 2018
5 Stars
Review by Jen Skewes
Wow!! That was how I felt at the end of this book and probably while reading it as well. Sweet Sixteen is nothing I expected to be and it is also unlike anything that Brenda Rothert has written. In the beginning there was a part of me that was so shocked by what was going on that I wasn’t sure how I would continue. But this being Ms. Rothert I knew that I would. It was that moment that made me realize just how different this book really was and how much this book would affect me. In a way it set me up for the emotions that I would feel.
Gin is a senior in a small town where football is the most important thing. She just wants to continue to lay low, finish her senior year and move on to NYU. Gin is not the most popular girl, people may talk about her behind her back but she doesn't really let it affect her. She knows how to defend herself and does so when necessary. But she also looks out for others as well, and she proves that when she defends a girl from being bullied and beaten up. The girl’s brother is Chase Matthews, the captain of the football team. Chase was there to take care of her and thanked her for what she did for his little sister. But he wanted to do more, and my God did he. His gesture was, in his mind, supposed to be a good thing, but instead was the complete opposite. It ruined the quiet senior year she had hoped to have. It completely turned things upside down in not only her world but also his.
I don’t want to go into any more detail. You need to go into this one blind, just like I did. This book deals with some very heavy topics and truth be told some things that went on just made me sick. But it also truly opened my eyes. Does this really go on in small towns, or any town for that matter? Some moments truly were difficult to deal with and caused my heart to beat out of my chest. But while they were intense and maybe a bit raw, Ms. Rothert still managed to handle them in the perfect way. A way that makes you not only feel the emotions but also doesn't completely turn you off to the story itself, if that makes sense. It makes you want to read on and see what will happen next, in hopes that these characters will come out ok.
Gin is an amazing heroine who I loved. I admired her strength and the ability to be herself no matter what anyone said about her. She always managed to stay true to herself. She had a crush on a boy that she should have despised. But she saw some good in him and still managed to stand up for herself and call him out on his behavior. She may have tried to be invisible throughout her high school career but she is one of those girls who has a major impact on not only the people around her but this story.
Chase, oh how this boy toyed with my emotions. I wanted to hate him!!! As the captain of the football team he had responsibilities and ones that were just so wrong. He made excuses for it and I hated it. But I knew that there was so much more to him. Maybe he was just a teenage boy caught up in this world and no idea how to get out. Maybe the pressure from so many people is what led him to be the boy that we first meet. Truth is I am not sure what his reasons were, but in the end that wasn’t what mattered. It was the way he grew as an individual. The way he stood up to people and took a stand. And yes maybe he didn’t do it the right way at first but he completely turned around and in the end I loved him. I loved him and Gin together and how they truly helped each other through a very tough year.
I loved this book and everything it stood for. I applaud Ms. Rothert for writing it, for dealing with the topics that she writes about. The writing is flawless, the words written on each page are done so in a way that brings out every emotion. I felt it all with these characters. I felt like I was a part of their little world, one at times I wanted to escape from just as Gin did. I loved watching the two of them grow, both as individuals but also together. To see the way they worked through things, and opened up to each other is what also made this book so special. This is by far one of my top reads for this year. It was brilliant and one of those books that will stay with me.
Review by Jen Skewes
Wow!! That was how I felt at the end of this book and probably while reading it as well. Sweet Sixteen is nothing I expected to be and it is also unlike anything that Brenda Rothert has written. In the beginning there was a part of me that was so shocked by what was going on that I wasn’t sure how I would continue. But this being Ms. Rothert I knew that I would. It was that moment that made me realize just how different this book really was and how much this book would affect me. In a way it set me up for the emotions that I would feel.
Gin is a senior in a small town where football is the most important thing. She just wants to continue to lay low, finish her senior year and move on to NYU. Gin is not the most popular girl, people may talk about her behind her back but she doesn't really let it affect her. She knows how to defend herself and does so when necessary. But she also looks out for others as well, and she proves that when she defends a girl from being bullied and beaten up. The girl’s brother is Chase Matthews, the captain of the football team. Chase was there to take care of her and thanked her for what she did for his little sister. But he wanted to do more, and my God did he. His gesture was, in his mind, supposed to be a good thing, but instead was the complete opposite. It ruined the quiet senior year she had hoped to have. It completely turned things upside down in not only her world but also his.
I don’t want to go into any more detail. You need to go into this one blind, just like I did. This book deals with some very heavy topics and truth be told some things that went on just made me sick. But it also truly opened my eyes. Does this really go on in small towns, or any town for that matter? Some moments truly were difficult to deal with and caused my heart to beat out of my chest. But while they were intense and maybe a bit raw, Ms. Rothert still managed to handle them in the perfect way. A way that makes you not only feel the emotions but also doesn't completely turn you off to the story itself, if that makes sense. It makes you want to read on and see what will happen next, in hopes that these characters will come out ok.
Gin is an amazing heroine who I loved. I admired her strength and the ability to be herself no matter what anyone said about her. She always managed to stay true to herself. She had a crush on a boy that she should have despised. But she saw some good in him and still managed to stand up for herself and call him out on his behavior. She may have tried to be invisible throughout her high school career but she is one of those girls who has a major impact on not only the people around her but this story.
Chase, oh how this boy toyed with my emotions. I wanted to hate him!!! As the captain of the football team he had responsibilities and ones that were just so wrong. He made excuses for it and I hated it. But I knew that there was so much more to him. Maybe he was just a teenage boy caught up in this world and no idea how to get out. Maybe the pressure from so many people is what led him to be the boy that we first meet. Truth is I am not sure what his reasons were, but in the end that wasn’t what mattered. It was the way he grew as an individual. The way he stood up to people and took a stand. And yes maybe he didn’t do it the right way at first but he completely turned around and in the end I loved him. I loved him and Gin together and how they truly helped each other through a very tough year.
I loved this book and everything it stood for. I applaud Ms. Rothert for writing it, for dealing with the topics that she writes about. The writing is flawless, the words written on each page are done so in a way that brings out every emotion. I felt it all with these characters. I felt like I was a part of their little world, one at times I wanted to escape from just as Gin did. I loved watching the two of them grow, both as individuals but also together. To see the way they worked through things, and opened up to each other is what also made this book so special. This is by far one of my top reads for this year. It was brilliant and one of those books that will stay with me.
July 25, 2018
I started this book not knowing anything about it. Figured it was a sweet story about a girl turning sixteen. I couldn’t have been more wrong. This story was so different from what the author has written in the past. And while I love all her books, I think Sweet Sixteen is my new favorite. Gin and Chase attend Roper high school in a small town where football is everything to everyone. Gin is an outcast who takes up for a up for an underclass an getting bullied. Chase is the star quarterback that everyone loves. After Gin takes up for his little sister he decides to make Gin’s year a little bit better. He honestly thinks he’s doing a good thing for her, so he doesn’t understand it when she declines his help.
I LOVED Gin. She was so strong willed and knew who she was. She didn’t try to fit in with all the “football” people. It took me a little longer to like Chase, but he eventually got me to come around. This story touched on some difficult subjects, but I honestly think these things go on in the world. I enjoyed every word of this book and the messages it portrayed. I’d give Sweet Sixteen more than five stars if I could. I definitely recommend that everyone reads this book.
I LOVED Gin. She was so strong willed and knew who she was. She didn’t try to fit in with all the “football” people. It took me a little longer to like Chase, but he eventually got me to come around. This story touched on some difficult subjects, but I honestly think these things go on in the world. I enjoyed every word of this book and the messages it portrayed. I’d give Sweet Sixteen more than five stars if I could. I definitely recommend that everyone reads this book.
February 5, 2023
Why would anyone write a teen romance, or any romance with a male MC who’s involved in repeated gang rapes?
Chase is supposed to be a Good Guy because he stops gang raping girls who want to be popular after Gin calls him out on it. Prior to her reaction, he thought being *chosen* to be part of the SWEET SIXTEEN, an initiation to popularity by having coerced sex/rape with sixteen football players.
Apparently the outcast Gin is so desirable, she turns on the lightbulb in Chase’s head and he realizes the error of his ways, thinks the other guys can go ahead and do their things, but he’s out. What a profile in courage (insert rolling eyes emoji).
Gin is supposed to be a champion of the little guy, a feminist, yet she still has a crush on Chase, after he asks her to be one of the SWEET SIXTEEN.
SWEET SIXTEEN sends the wrong message about actions and consequences, the ease of going from rapist to nice guy and feminism.
Chase is supposed to be a Good Guy because he stops gang raping girls who want to be popular after Gin calls him out on it. Prior to her reaction, he thought being *chosen* to be part of the SWEET SIXTEEN, an initiation to popularity by having coerced sex/rape with sixteen football players.
Apparently the outcast Gin is so desirable, she turns on the lightbulb in Chase’s head and he realizes the error of his ways, thinks the other guys can go ahead and do their things, but he’s out. What a profile in courage (insert rolling eyes emoji).
Gin is supposed to be a champion of the little guy, a feminist, yet she still has a crush on Chase, after he asks her to be one of the SWEET SIXTEEN.
SWEET SIXTEEN sends the wrong message about actions and consequences, the ease of going from rapist to nice guy and feminism.
July 24, 2018
Emotional, thought provoking, one of the best Young Adult novels I have read. Gin is trying to slide through her senior year under the radar. She has her sights on NYU and escaping the confines of small town Roper. Chase is Roper High School's Golden Boy, captain of the football team and poised to receive a full football scholarship to the college of his choice. One small school, two very separate lives that are about to collide. As I am 53 years old, I am past this stage of my life and my daughters are also grown but do not let the Young Adult classification sway you. It is relevant for any stage of life. I could not put this one down. Thank you for the look into the past Brenda Rothert. I will treasure this story for years to come.
July 24, 2018
I have been a fan of Rothert's writing for several years. I read my first book by her in 2014 and was sucked into her storytelling abilities. Now four years later I have had the opportunity to read numerous books she has written and watched/read as her writing style has grown and developed into so much more. Sweet Sixteen is a bittersweet tale of two acquaintances that become close friends and more after one rushes to the aide of a younger sibling. This may be Rotherts best work to date in my opinion. Even now as I sit here and try to write this review, I am still not sure what to say! It doesn't just touch on the subject of bullying, it delves into the repercussions of the act of bullying and the fallout that occurs for those at the receiving end. The subject matter also deals with racism, alcoholism, physical and mental abuse. As someone who was bullied for several years during middle school and into high school, I could relate to the subject matter and it brought back a lot of those feelings that I have locked away. No child should ever have to suffer at the hands of another. The subject matter is strong and Rothert does such an amazing job of writing about it. Her characters show compassion, strength, and caring toward one another. There is learning and growth for the characters as they recognize that some of the things that they have been doing for years are not as acceptable as they once thought. That their mindset needs to change and after reflection, they aren't afraid to take a stand for what they feel is right, no matter what the backlash may be.
Chase Matthews is the local high school, golden boy. He has a one-way ticket to the NFL if he plays his cards right. Something he wants more than anything as a way to save his family from all the hurt and heartache that his father has caused. As the leader of his team not just on the field, but of it as well, the younger players look up to him for guidance. But when a time-honored tradition fails miserably one early Friday morning, Chase sets in motion a wave of anger and frustration. When he learns that his past actions may have driven a fellow student over the edge, he decides to find it in himself to change his ways. With the help of hoped-to-be-conquest, he manages to see the error of his ways. Can he convince his fellow teammates that they need to make a change as well or will he find himself fighting on his own for what is right?
Ginger "Gin" Fielding is ready to be finished with high school and the small town mentality that seems to consume everyone in Roper. Where everything seems to be okay on the surface, but what lurks below the surface is ignored. One high school ritual that she will not embrace is the "Sweet Sixteen." When she finds herself on the receiving end of the rose, she steps up and fights back for all those before her. The hardest part of it all is that her crush now notices her. It just took her saving his younger sister from a bully. Gin has had a crush on Chase for years and the advances he brings make her feel things she never imagined, beside the anger that rolls off her in waves. Can she help Chase see the errors of his ways?
If you are looking for a really gritty, emotional, REAL, read, then this book is for you. I am still at a bit of a loss as to what to say. This is a story that will stay with me for a long time and at this point, I am considering letting my daughter read it. I realize that the subject matter is strong, but the fact that there is so much bullying going on in schools today, makes me want to let her read this. There is so much truth to what you will find in the pages of Sweet Sixteen. Rothert has outdone herself with this one. If I could give her ten stars I would.
5++ iScream Stars!
Chase Matthews is the local high school, golden boy. He has a one-way ticket to the NFL if he plays his cards right. Something he wants more than anything as a way to save his family from all the hurt and heartache that his father has caused. As the leader of his team not just on the field, but of it as well, the younger players look up to him for guidance. But when a time-honored tradition fails miserably one early Friday morning, Chase sets in motion a wave of anger and frustration. When he learns that his past actions may have driven a fellow student over the edge, he decides to find it in himself to change his ways. With the help of hoped-to-be-conquest, he manages to see the error of his ways. Can he convince his fellow teammates that they need to make a change as well or will he find himself fighting on his own for what is right?
Ginger "Gin" Fielding is ready to be finished with high school and the small town mentality that seems to consume everyone in Roper. Where everything seems to be okay on the surface, but what lurks below the surface is ignored. One high school ritual that she will not embrace is the "Sweet Sixteen." When she finds herself on the receiving end of the rose, she steps up and fights back for all those before her. The hardest part of it all is that her crush now notices her. It just took her saving his younger sister from a bully. Gin has had a crush on Chase for years and the advances he brings make her feel things she never imagined, beside the anger that rolls off her in waves. Can she help Chase see the errors of his ways?
If you are looking for a really gritty, emotional, REAL, read, then this book is for you. I am still at a bit of a loss as to what to say. This is a story that will stay with me for a long time and at this point, I am considering letting my daughter read it. I realize that the subject matter is strong, but the fact that there is so much bullying going on in schools today, makes me want to let her read this. There is so much truth to what you will find in the pages of Sweet Sixteen. Rothert has outdone herself with this one. If I could give her ten stars I would.
5++ iScream Stars!
August 25, 2019
I was gifted a copy for an honest review.
Well, the sweet sixteen was not what I was expecting and ewwww! Gin was right not wanting to be part and it was good to see a strong female character. She stood up for people and what she believed in. Chase was the star quarterback with not such a good home life. It took Gin to wake him up and realise that what he was doing wasn’t good. Then he too took a stand - regardless of the flack he got. Gin and Chase were great together and I really liked Gin’s mum. We get a lovely epilogue at the end. A very satisfying read.
Well, the sweet sixteen was not what I was expecting and ewwww! Gin was right not wanting to be part and it was good to see a strong female character. She stood up for people and what she believed in. Chase was the star quarterback with not such a good home life. It took Gin to wake him up and realise that what he was doing wasn’t good. Then he too took a stand - regardless of the flack he got. Gin and Chase were great together and I really liked Gin’s mum. We get a lovely epilogue at the end. A very satisfying read.
July 29, 2018
My Readultery Life Review
WOW…this book is like no other book that I had read recently.
Sweet Sixteen is a book about the ups and downs that most high school teenagers experience during their time at school and the repercussions that follow from everyone’s decisions. This story is raw and will be hard for some readers to read.
Brenda Rothert does a beautiful job at portraying the social issues that many teens these days face in their everyday school life, issues like bullying, racial abuse and even sexual assault. These issues can have a massive impact on a teens childhood and can be left with issues that they take with them into adulthood. Brenda Rothert has written this story with the perfect mix of tough love, reality and empathising what it means to take responsibility for one’s actions.
Our main characters are amazing, both hero and heroine battle with the issues that this story covers and we as readers experience the impact that from both sides off the story when they, the teens make their decisions and how their actions have a causal effect.
Gin, our heroine, is wise beyond her years. She knows who she is and what she wants her life to be once high school is over. This alone made her one off my favourite characters that I have read today. Its very rare for a person of her age to take a stand like she did and when her stance isn’t liked she certainly feels that backlash form the school. But even with the hostilely she faces, she stays true to her and the beliefs that she has a human being and as a young female adult. Its these qualities that we need to embrace in our youth off today. Strength in character, perseverance, kindness and being in yourself.
Chance, man he was the character that tugged at my heart strings. While he is one off the problems within the school and his decisions up to a point have resulted in some questionable actions, its his actions after he becomes aware of his part in the issues at school that shows the kind of man he will become. For me, as I was reading this story and seeing the changes that Chances goes through and his willingness to accept responsibility for his actions was the focal point for me in this story. We all have the capacity to make mistakes, its how we as an individual accepts responsibility and atones for our actions can show our true character.
Overall, this book for me is a fantastic YA romance and a coming off age read that highlights important issues that we as a society must help our future generations overcome. We must encourage the good within each individual and offer assistance for those who can’t find their way. Brenda Rothert has written a beautiful and raw romance. She has the ability to address issues with a softness that leaves an impression in people of all ages.
***** 5 Stars
WOW…this book is like no other book that I had read recently.
Sweet Sixteen is a book about the ups and downs that most high school teenagers experience during their time at school and the repercussions that follow from everyone’s decisions. This story is raw and will be hard for some readers to read.
Brenda Rothert does a beautiful job at portraying the social issues that many teens these days face in their everyday school life, issues like bullying, racial abuse and even sexual assault. These issues can have a massive impact on a teens childhood and can be left with issues that they take with them into adulthood. Brenda Rothert has written this story with the perfect mix of tough love, reality and empathising what it means to take responsibility for one’s actions.
Our main characters are amazing, both hero and heroine battle with the issues that this story covers and we as readers experience the impact that from both sides off the story when they, the teens make their decisions and how their actions have a causal effect.
Gin, our heroine, is wise beyond her years. She knows who she is and what she wants her life to be once high school is over. This alone made her one off my favourite characters that I have read today. Its very rare for a person of her age to take a stand like she did and when her stance isn’t liked she certainly feels that backlash form the school. But even with the hostilely she faces, she stays true to her and the beliefs that she has a human being and as a young female adult. Its these qualities that we need to embrace in our youth off today. Strength in character, perseverance, kindness and being in yourself.
Chance, man he was the character that tugged at my heart strings. While he is one off the problems within the school and his decisions up to a point have resulted in some questionable actions, its his actions after he becomes aware of his part in the issues at school that shows the kind of man he will become. For me, as I was reading this story and seeing the changes that Chances goes through and his willingness to accept responsibility for his actions was the focal point for me in this story. We all have the capacity to make mistakes, its how we as an individual accepts responsibility and atones for our actions can show our true character.
Overall, this book for me is a fantastic YA romance and a coming off age read that highlights important issues that we as a society must help our future generations overcome. We must encourage the good within each individual and offer assistance for those who can’t find their way. Brenda Rothert has written a beautiful and raw romance. She has the ability to address issues with a softness that leaves an impression in people of all ages.
***** 5 Stars
August 27, 2018
2.5
RTC
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December 14, 2018I just... wow.
July 27, 2018
Wowww this was so unexpected and nothing like any of the YA books I’ve read before. I was blown away by this story and how it brought interesting, sensitive issues to surface.
Gin by far was one of my favorite heroine from a YA book. She was strong and was no one’s doormat. She stood firmly by her beliefs and didn’t get pulled into peer pressure.
Chase I had mixed feelings about him at the beginning. He seemed legit when he helped Gin after she defended his sister but then obviously he didn’t really “know” Gin and thought she was like every other girl in the school. How wrong was he. He was intrigued after she turned him down literally in front of the entire school on some bs tradition that him and his football teammates had. It was degrading and very sensitive. But Gin didn’t care about their tradition and stood up to them. As time passed Chase realized how much more Gin was and he was falling her. Gin didn’t make it easy for him which I applauded.
Gin helped Chase out with lots of things including family matters. They were perfect for each other. And who knew that Gin would’ve been the one to change Chase for the better. He was so in love with her that it melted my heart. And that epilogue?!?! Priceless, ❤️.
Gin by far was one of my favorite heroine from a YA book. She was strong and was no one’s doormat. She stood firmly by her beliefs and didn’t get pulled into peer pressure.
Chase I had mixed feelings about him at the beginning. He seemed legit when he helped Gin after she defended his sister but then obviously he didn’t really “know” Gin and thought she was like every other girl in the school. How wrong was he. He was intrigued after she turned him down literally in front of the entire school on some bs tradition that him and his football teammates had. It was degrading and very sensitive. But Gin didn’t care about their tradition and stood up to them. As time passed Chase realized how much more Gin was and he was falling her. Gin didn’t make it easy for him which I applauded.
Gin helped Chase out with lots of things including family matters. They were perfect for each other. And who knew that Gin would’ve been the one to change Chase for the better. He was so in love with her that it melted my heart. And that epilogue?!?! Priceless, ❤️.
July 30, 2018
** Spoiler Free Review**
This is the first book that I have read by Brenda, I cannot wait to do this review.
I was so blown away by this book. It's actually one of the best I have read this year. In my opinion any mother of a high school girl should read this book. It was truly eye opening.
I know high school football is a huge deal in some towns. But at Roper High School the team takes things to a whole new level. The old saying boys will be boys should not apply in this case. Red roses are suppose to be a sign of love or in some cases death. But at Roper it is a whole big deal. And it's not one that I would want my daughter to be a part of.
I truly loved reading this and I would recommend it
This is the first book that I have read by Brenda, I cannot wait to do this review.
I was so blown away by this book. It's actually one of the best I have read this year. In my opinion any mother of a high school girl should read this book. It was truly eye opening.
I know high school football is a huge deal in some towns. But at Roper High School the team takes things to a whole new level. The old saying boys will be boys should not apply in this case. Red roses are suppose to be a sign of love or in some cases death. But at Roper it is a whole big deal. And it's not one that I would want my daughter to be a part of.
I truly loved reading this and I would recommend it
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