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New Beginnings
Ida and Engen's 13-year-old friendship is altered when the death of their friend comes between them. Engen, guilt-ridden over Janelle's passing, has become violent. Ida, in her grief, attempts to fill the loss with a one-night stand, which leaves her pregnant. As punishment, their parents force them to join a program called Youth of America Help a Nation, and they are sent to Africa on work assignments. Enter Lev Rosen, Ida's irresistible boss at the orphanage where she’s been appointed. Lev has his own connection with Ida, although she doesn't know it yet. Engen hoped the time away would give him the courage to finally tell Ida his true feelings for her, but how can he do that now that she is getting closer to Lev?
- GenresYoung AdultComing Of Age
286 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 8, 2020
3 people are currently reading
104 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
October 24, 2020
New Beginnings by Janet Olson is a YA Coming of Age story that focuses on Ida following the death of her best friend. In the aftermath of her friends death, in a moment of stupidity, she has a one night stand and ends up pregnant. Her parents 'punish' her by sending her to Africa as part of a scheme whereby the youth of America 'volunteer' (Ida certainly didn't volunteer thank-you very much!) to help out in the community. Ida's role is in the orphanage where she works for the sexy-as-sin Lev, who is hiding one or two secrets of his own. Okay, now that my summary is written, onto my review... I don't normally read YA Coming of Age stories but I was intrigued by this one because of the setting. I've always wanted to go to Africa and so I do sometimes read things out of my preferred genre if they are set there. To be honest, despite wanting to read the book, I started it with a degree of trepidation (sorry Janet) but actually I thought it was brilliant! Bravo Janet! There was just something so compelling about it that I simply had to keep reading. The story is well told and the characters are as I seem to remember 16 year old me being - a little confused and unsure in the big wide world. The love triangle was well handled and I enjoyed being in on the secret of who Ida was really in love because it was obvious to all but her. This was an excellent read and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
May 8, 2021
An unusual YA contemporary romance
I picked up this book after seeing so many glowing reviews online. This is by no means a genre I would typically read, but I’ve been reading more widely of late and thought I’d give it a whirl.
The story follows Ida a Minnesota teenager who is shipped off to Africa by her parents when they find out she is pregnant... I mean, that in of itself is pretty rough, but she also happens to be grieving the loss of her best friend who died tragically in a motorcycle accident.
Ida is quite the confusing character. I couldn’t work out if it’s intentionally written that way because of her circumstances or she’s just a bit of a nonchalant, loner type. Either way, I would have loved to of read a bit more internal dialogue to truly understand her.
Now, it is a romance so of course there are love interests, a couple of them actually! Lev the saintly orphanage boss and Engen the strapping jock turned doting wannabe bf, both of whom are desperately vying for Ida’s affections and both of whom I would have kicked to the curb! #teamida
Now, at this point I must note, I think I’ve decided that this genre isn’t for me. It’s nothing to do with the book, it’s just personal preference. The writing is great, it’s a nice easy style which still conveys a lot of information and that is hard to pull off. The story premise was unusual too, plus there were a lot of good side character, but I’m just not a romance kinda gal.
With that said, I’m giving this one four stars because I love that the author weaved a really unusual story and I do genuinely believe lovers of YA contemporary romance will enjoy it.
I picked up this book after seeing so many glowing reviews online. This is by no means a genre I would typically read, but I’ve been reading more widely of late and thought I’d give it a whirl.
The story follows Ida a Minnesota teenager who is shipped off to Africa by her parents when they find out she is pregnant... I mean, that in of itself is pretty rough, but she also happens to be grieving the loss of her best friend who died tragically in a motorcycle accident.
Ida is quite the confusing character. I couldn’t work out if it’s intentionally written that way because of her circumstances or she’s just a bit of a nonchalant, loner type. Either way, I would have loved to of read a bit more internal dialogue to truly understand her.
Now, it is a romance so of course there are love interests, a couple of them actually! Lev the saintly orphanage boss and Engen the strapping jock turned doting wannabe bf, both of whom are desperately vying for Ida’s affections and both of whom I would have kicked to the curb! #teamida
Now, at this point I must note, I think I’ve decided that this genre isn’t for me. It’s nothing to do with the book, it’s just personal preference. The writing is great, it’s a nice easy style which still conveys a lot of information and that is hard to pull off. The story premise was unusual too, plus there were a lot of good side character, but I’m just not a romance kinda gal.
With that said, I’m giving this one four stars because I love that the author weaved a really unusual story and I do genuinely believe lovers of YA contemporary romance will enjoy it.
July 21, 2021
Part One of an Unusual and Convoluted YA Romance
Ida has a complicated life.
One of her best friends Janelle dies in a crash and her other best friend Engen is a guy and maybe more than just a friend. After Janelle's death, Ida slept with her best friend's crush and fell pregnant. Ida is sent on a youth volunteer experience where rich privileged American youngsters get to volunteer to help save poor severely underprivileged Ugandan orphans.
The first thing to say about this book is that it is very well written in the sense that the style of writing and language use is superb and very easy to read. All the characters are fleshed out in-depth and this is very much a book about people - about their relationships and in particular about Ida being the focus of two men. The book could have been set anywhere - a summer camp in the US, a youth project in an inner city in that the location contributes almost nothing to the story that is story-crucial, and the events are merely to push the people in their behaviour. And that is incredibly well handled. The unfolding of the complex past and relationships which have brought Ida to where she is, is brilliantly and convincingly handled as well.
However, and to my immense sadness, there was also a very great deal about this book I really struggled with and I sincerely hope might be addressed in future books.
Firstly, there is the premise.
No loving family (which hers is presented as being) would send a teenage daughter pregnant with her first child away on their own anywhere - let alone to another nation and especially not to a developing nation where the healthcare available is already limited and stressed.
Then why Uganda?
A reader could even be forgiven for not being able to name the country Ida goes to (every other review I read just says ‘Africa’). In this review I use 'Uganda' more than three times as much as the author does in the whole book that is set there (it is used twice and ‘Africa’ thirty-five times).
Ida meets Lev who is running the charity project orphanage. He is an ex-orphan himself and the only white orphan the orphanage ever had. That struck me as incredibly contrived and setting insensitive as to me it comes over as a blatant anomaly which appears to be there just so Ida's second romantic interest could be a gorgeous looking white man.
This book could have touched on something of what makes Uganda, its people, culture, complex past and present so unique. Instead, it presents it more as an insipid generic African backcloth - as if the entire continent from Cairo and the Canaries to Capetown was a single and homogeneous culture and geography, further fostering false, patronising and unhelpful stereotypes.
Then there is the point of view issue.
This is the biggest technical flaw in otherwise immaculate writing, IMO. As others have noted, the issue is that although we are in Ida's head we know almost nothing of what she is thinking and feeling. As a reader, that meant I felt very detached from the character and thus I never really came to care much about her as her unexplained actions often come over as thoughtless and selfish.
Finally, there is the end of the book.
Which isn't. The reader spends the whole book wanting to know which of the men Ida has idolising her she will pick only to be thwarted by a 'to be continued'. No end at all. No attempt at an end. Not even a cliffhanger. Just an end of chapter and 'to be continued'. I can not tell you how disappointed and frustrated that left me as it was the one thing I did care about in the book and what kept me reading to the end. Maybe the author should at least consider putting ‘Part One’ in the title to give a reader fair warning.
For those who are big into YA romance, this will offer a rather different, if just a little contrived, take on the theme. But be prepared for the long haul as the end of this story is likely a series away.
Ida has a complicated life.
One of her best friends Janelle dies in a crash and her other best friend Engen is a guy and maybe more than just a friend. After Janelle's death, Ida slept with her best friend's crush and fell pregnant. Ida is sent on a youth volunteer experience where rich privileged American youngsters get to volunteer to help save poor severely underprivileged Ugandan orphans.
The first thing to say about this book is that it is very well written in the sense that the style of writing and language use is superb and very easy to read. All the characters are fleshed out in-depth and this is very much a book about people - about their relationships and in particular about Ida being the focus of two men. The book could have been set anywhere - a summer camp in the US, a youth project in an inner city in that the location contributes almost nothing to the story that is story-crucial, and the events are merely to push the people in their behaviour. And that is incredibly well handled. The unfolding of the complex past and relationships which have brought Ida to where she is, is brilliantly and convincingly handled as well.
However, and to my immense sadness, there was also a very great deal about this book I really struggled with and I sincerely hope might be addressed in future books.
Firstly, there is the premise.
No loving family (which hers is presented as being) would send a teenage daughter pregnant with her first child away on their own anywhere - let alone to another nation and especially not to a developing nation where the healthcare available is already limited and stressed.
Then why Uganda?
A reader could even be forgiven for not being able to name the country Ida goes to (every other review I read just says ‘Africa’). In this review I use 'Uganda' more than three times as much as the author does in the whole book that is set there (it is used twice and ‘Africa’ thirty-five times).
Ida meets Lev who is running the charity project orphanage. He is an ex-orphan himself and the only white orphan the orphanage ever had. That struck me as incredibly contrived and setting insensitive as to me it comes over as a blatant anomaly which appears to be there just so Ida's second romantic interest could be a gorgeous looking white man.
This book could have touched on something of what makes Uganda, its people, culture, complex past and present so unique. Instead, it presents it more as an insipid generic African backcloth - as if the entire continent from Cairo and the Canaries to Capetown was a single and homogeneous culture and geography, further fostering false, patronising and unhelpful stereotypes.
Then there is the point of view issue.
This is the biggest technical flaw in otherwise immaculate writing, IMO. As others have noted, the issue is that although we are in Ida's head we know almost nothing of what she is thinking and feeling. As a reader, that meant I felt very detached from the character and thus I never really came to care much about her as her unexplained actions often come over as thoughtless and selfish.
Finally, there is the end of the book.
Which isn't. The reader spends the whole book wanting to know which of the men Ida has idolising her she will pick only to be thwarted by a 'to be continued'. No end at all. No attempt at an end. Not even a cliffhanger. Just an end of chapter and 'to be continued'. I can not tell you how disappointed and frustrated that left me as it was the one thing I did care about in the book and what kept me reading to the end. Maybe the author should at least consider putting ‘Part One’ in the title to give a reader fair warning.
For those who are big into YA romance, this will offer a rather different, if just a little contrived, take on the theme. But be prepared for the long haul as the end of this story is likely a series away.
September 14, 2020
I went into this book with no expectations and therefore, left with none fulfilled. The story appears to be about an older teen who is pregnant and off to a school-sponsored trip to Africa. The odd aspect of this is her family thought it was a bright idea to have her baby in Africa instead of Minnesota. Not casting aspersions in any way, but one would surmise pre and post-natal care is probably better in Minnesota.
The book is set in the year... I have no idea. I think it is loosely set in possibly the next decade and a half from now. That lack of clarity never allowed me to get fully engaged with the book.
Ida is a very hard to define character. She is the least naturally appealing lead character I have ever come across. It took the concerted attention of several males in the book for me to realize about halfway through that she was considered attractive. There is no defining aspect to Ida. She never really looks herself over in the mirror. The impression I got was a sad, introverted, quiet cipher of a person.
The overarching issue here is dealing with the passing of a best friend when you are young. The different reactions to this tragedy are well presented. There is no right way to grieve, there is just grief. The relationship between Emden and Ida is wrought with the loss of their third musketeer.
This is an important book for teenaged girls to read. New Beginnings is a clear example of the consequences of a thoughtless action and they can be severe. This book is well written in how it deals with the myriad characters and their interactions.
Lev came across to this reader as really nothing more than a glossy stalker. His single comment about Ida's lost friend should have meant he was kicked to the curb and NEVER considered as a human to Ida again. She is obviously a bigger person than I am. In my view, the ending of the book left more questions then simply being ‘to be continued’. I am not certain how the ending justified an ending. I am not certain what the ending means. A unique look at one girl's dealing with teen pregnancy.
Disclaimer: I read this on Kindle Unlimited.
My Rating: 4.5 stars
Reviewed by: Mr. N
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
The book is set in the year... I have no idea. I think it is loosely set in possibly the next decade and a half from now. That lack of clarity never allowed me to get fully engaged with the book.
Ida is a very hard to define character. She is the least naturally appealing lead character I have ever come across. It took the concerted attention of several males in the book for me to realize about halfway through that she was considered attractive. There is no defining aspect to Ida. She never really looks herself over in the mirror. The impression I got was a sad, introverted, quiet cipher of a person.
The overarching issue here is dealing with the passing of a best friend when you are young. The different reactions to this tragedy are well presented. There is no right way to grieve, there is just grief. The relationship between Emden and Ida is wrought with the loss of their third musketeer.
This is an important book for teenaged girls to read. New Beginnings is a clear example of the consequences of a thoughtless action and they can be severe. This book is well written in how it deals with the myriad characters and their interactions.
Lev came across to this reader as really nothing more than a glossy stalker. His single comment about Ida's lost friend should have meant he was kicked to the curb and NEVER considered as a human to Ida again. She is obviously a bigger person than I am. In my view, the ending of the book left more questions then simply being ‘to be continued’. I am not certain how the ending justified an ending. I am not certain what the ending means. A unique look at one girl's dealing with teen pregnancy.
Disclaimer: I read this on Kindle Unlimited.
My Rating: 4.5 stars
Reviewed by: Mr. N
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
January 9, 2022
I have so many unanswered questions at the end of this one, I am eager to read book 2 to find them. My feelings for all the characters flip-flopped so many times, I went through the whole range of emotions. I loved Ida's growth through the story and how she matured beyond the girl who was first introduced, but the whole book very much shows the failings of young love. Obviously for some people, it works, but this story reflected the sometimes stupid choices and miscommunications that can happen amongst those who are still immature. That extended into the cast of side characters just as much as the main 3.
Paul was my favorite character, without a doubt.
And as much good work as Lev does, which I respect him for, I'm still team Engen. There were just a few occasions where Lev set off red flags for me, but I won't write him off yet. I'm all for character growth. Looking forward to reading the next 2 installments.
Paul was my favorite character, without a doubt.
And as much good work as Lev does, which I respect him for, I'm still team Engen. There were just a few occasions where Lev set off red flags for me, but I won't write him off yet. I'm all for character growth. Looking forward to reading the next 2 installments.
June 4, 2020
From the get go, I knew this wasn’t going to be a typical YA coming of age tale. Olson expertly crafts her characters with realism and humanity. Main character Ida is perfectly flawed, and her journey to finding purpose in her life makes this book a page-turner. The supporting characters that Olson has created are amazing too- loyal Engen, irresistible Lev, and Ida’s hilarious little brother Paul (who might be one of the best written characters I’ve read in a book in a long time—I would die for this to be turned into a tv series just to see him on screen). The love triangle aspects of the novel are great, but I loved Ida’s growth to becoming the person she’s meant to be even more. She never needs a guy to make her complete, so she’s ultimately a great role model for young women (although she would never approve of such a title and would vehemently deny it).
I truly hope Olson has plans to make this into a series as I cannot wait to see where life takes Ida next.
I truly hope Olson has plans to make this into a series as I cannot wait to see where life takes Ida next.
April 17, 2021
How is this Olsen's debut novel?
So well written and enthralling.
I don't reach much YA books but I couldn't put this down.
Meet 17 year old Ida who after losing her best friend and having a one night stand becomes pregnant, because of this her parents send her to africa to join a work assignment at a orphanage.
There she meets Lev who beknown to her is connected to her long before she gets to Africa.
Ida is such a feisty, independent teenager and it was nice to see her stick up for herself and her men.
Her best friend Engen goes with her on the programme too as a punishment for beating someone up!!
The love triangle was so well written out and Engen stole my heart.
Olsen left it on such a good cliffhanger i need to read Between Two Worlds ASAP.
So well written and enthralling.
I don't reach much YA books but I couldn't put this down.
Meet 17 year old Ida who after losing her best friend and having a one night stand becomes pregnant, because of this her parents send her to africa to join a work assignment at a orphanage.
There she meets Lev who beknown to her is connected to her long before she gets to Africa.
Ida is such a feisty, independent teenager and it was nice to see her stick up for herself and her men.
Her best friend Engen goes with her on the programme too as a punishment for beating someone up!!
The love triangle was so well written out and Engen stole my heart.
Olsen left it on such a good cliffhanger i need to read Between Two Worlds ASAP.
December 31, 2020
A story as hot as temperatures in Africa!
I heard great things about this book and it did not disappoint! I could not put this down and when I did, the story stayed with me (even in my dreams) until I picked it up again and finished, which didn’t take long! Reading about Ida brought me back to my 17 year old self! To the similar teenage experiences I had and how I grew from being sent away as well. Needless to say, this story resonated with me on a whole other level. The characters are genuine, the story is sweet with a steamy love triangle. And in my opinion, it had a perfect ending with a cliff hanger that has me anxiously awaiting book 2! My grandmother is from Africa and reading this makes me want to jump on a plane and see her homeland.
I heard great things about this book and it did not disappoint! I could not put this down and when I did, the story stayed with me (even in my dreams) until I picked it up again and finished, which didn’t take long! Reading about Ida brought me back to my 17 year old self! To the similar teenage experiences I had and how I grew from being sent away as well. Needless to say, this story resonated with me on a whole other level. The characters are genuine, the story is sweet with a steamy love triangle. And in my opinion, it had a perfect ending with a cliff hanger that has me anxiously awaiting book 2! My grandmother is from Africa and reading this makes me want to jump on a plane and see her homeland.
November 5, 2020
The characters are well developed and easy to relate to. This is a poignant novel that depicts a whole myriad of emotions for each character including love, hate and jealousy! After their mutual friend dies, the dynamics change for Ida and Engen . The story unravels further as they travel together to Uganda.....
October 30, 2020
Bring on the sequel!
New Beginnings is a story of friendship, love, desire, loyalty, obligation, and all the many blurred lines in between. Olson captures the angst of approaching adulthood when every decision is momentous and which path to follow is never clear. This was an engaging read which left me eager for the continuing story.
New Beginnings is a story of friendship, love, desire, loyalty, obligation, and all the many blurred lines in between. Olson captures the angst of approaching adulthood when every decision is momentous and which path to follow is never clear. This was an engaging read which left me eager for the continuing story.
September 13, 2020
Can book 2 be done already?!? I need to know what happens!
Ida tragically loses her best friend, and in a moment of stupidity she gets pregnant by a boy she doesn’t even like. Her parents see her spieling out of control and decide to send her to Africa for 6 months to get her life back on track.
But they send her PREGNANT - not what I would expect but who am I to judge?
Africa truly changes her life for the better in more ways then one.
The one part of the story that drove me CRAZY was Ida leading on to boys that are in LOVE with her. Just pick one already! Stop the back and forth. But it perfectly fits with the story and you can see Ida grow throughout the process. But still haha.
Ida tragically loses her best friend, and in a moment of stupidity she gets pregnant by a boy she doesn’t even like. Her parents see her spieling out of control and decide to send her to Africa for 6 months to get her life back on track.
But they send her PREGNANT - not what I would expect but who am I to judge?
Africa truly changes her life for the better in more ways then one.
The one part of the story that drove me CRAZY was Ida leading on to boys that are in LOVE with her. Just pick one already! Stop the back and forth. But it perfectly fits with the story and you can see Ida grow throughout the process. But still haha.
January 9, 2022
I had no idea what I was getting myself into when I cracked the spine to this book! I had no idea it was going to be the story it was and I am SO very glad I chose to bump this one up my ever growing TBR list! It was an unexpected pager turner that made me lose sleep because I COULD NOT put it down! My husband literally had to pry it from my hands when we had things we had go do. The characters Ida and Lev evenly immature at times which makes me love them both because they both hurt each other and it's not one sided. However, the feelings of love that I feel coming from both of them and the maturity that they more often show just gives me all the feels for these two. The character Engen is well written as well, I just wasn't as fond of him as a person. This book left me wanting to visit Africa and work at an orphanage. The feelings of accomplishment one would find while there would be more than worth it! And then just as I am crossing my heart in anticipation to Ida choosing the right guy... I get a To Be Continued.... Wait? What? I have to wait to know what happens? There's a book two? Oh my goodness, I need it NOW!! Also, I need to get my TEAM Lev t-shirt purchased stat, because I am rooting for him!
October 18, 2021
The main characters in New Beginnings, by Janet Olson @janetolsonauthor, are flawed, loveable, often frustrating, but believable. They are in their late teens, smart, and vacillate between moments of maturity and heartbreaking immaturity. This is what you might expect from today’s teens, in the western world, especially those with advantages. Middle class kids are exposed to and bombarded with too much, they seem worldly, but are often actually sheltered. Ida and Engen are like this, till a tragedy occurs. They were part of a three-way friendship, one of great emotional significance, but the third member, Janelle, died in a motorcycle accident. It devastates both Ida and Engen. This is the beginning of their initiation into adulthood.
Ida, grieving and drunk, makes a terrible mistake. She has a one-night stand, which leaves her pregnant. Engen feels responsible for Janelle’s death because he feels he should have prevented her from going on a date with a guy on a motorcycle. Now, still grieving and pregnant, Ida is sent by her family to Uganda, to help out for six months in an orphanage. This seems extreme at first, but the grandfather has a close tie to this orphanage and there may be issues in the family’s dynamics that are not fully presented in this first book. Egan can’t bare for her to go alone, and arranges to go with her.
Once there, Lev becomes the third character making up the love triangle of this story. Lev is their boss at the orphanage, but not much older than them, and already has a crush on Ida when she arrives. He is an orphan himself and knows Ida’s grandfather well, since childhood, when her grandfather helped out at the orphanage in a primary way. He has heard a lot about Ida his whole life. Both Egan and Lev are loveable young men struggling to grow up. Lev is familiar with poverty and has suffered personal loss, but he compensates with an endearing blend of commitment to the orphanage and a light and unserious playfulness towards life. That is until Ida. Engen is more brooding by nature, but totally committed to Ida on every level.
What makes this book powerful is the intensity of this triangle. This is their new beginnings, their steps out of childhood. Ida can be annoying in the way she flirts, commits, withdraws, then teases, but truly loves both Lev and Engen in different ways. The dialogue is wonderful and there is a good supporting cast. It is a love triangle filled with hurtful moments, jealousies and finally, revelations. Who will Ida choose? What will she decide about her baby? Will she keep her child or give her up? The way they suffer, torment, help each other and grow, make this book breath. We will need to read book two, Between Two Worlds, to see how this resolves.
Ida, grieving and drunk, makes a terrible mistake. She has a one-night stand, which leaves her pregnant. Engen feels responsible for Janelle’s death because he feels he should have prevented her from going on a date with a guy on a motorcycle. Now, still grieving and pregnant, Ida is sent by her family to Uganda, to help out for six months in an orphanage. This seems extreme at first, but the grandfather has a close tie to this orphanage and there may be issues in the family’s dynamics that are not fully presented in this first book. Egan can’t bare for her to go alone, and arranges to go with her.
Once there, Lev becomes the third character making up the love triangle of this story. Lev is their boss at the orphanage, but not much older than them, and already has a crush on Ida when she arrives. He is an orphan himself and knows Ida’s grandfather well, since childhood, when her grandfather helped out at the orphanage in a primary way. He has heard a lot about Ida his whole life. Both Egan and Lev are loveable young men struggling to grow up. Lev is familiar with poverty and has suffered personal loss, but he compensates with an endearing blend of commitment to the orphanage and a light and unserious playfulness towards life. That is until Ida. Engen is more brooding by nature, but totally committed to Ida on every level.
What makes this book powerful is the intensity of this triangle. This is their new beginnings, their steps out of childhood. Ida can be annoying in the way she flirts, commits, withdraws, then teases, but truly loves both Lev and Engen in different ways. The dialogue is wonderful and there is a good supporting cast. It is a love triangle filled with hurtful moments, jealousies and finally, revelations. Who will Ida choose? What will she decide about her baby? Will she keep her child or give her up? The way they suffer, torment, help each other and grow, make this book breath. We will need to read book two, Between Two Worlds, to see how this resolves.
January 20, 2022
This was a strange one, caused in part by the difference in culture between the UK and the US. I can’t imagine any situation where a British family would immediately send a pregnant child to a third world country as a punishment for getting pregnant, AND expect her to give birth where health care is non-existent in some places, but in America I’m prepared to believe it. So suspend any doubts and go with it.
I really enjoyed this book because it was so unusual. The author wasn’t afraid to make her main character a little aloof and impetuous. Although I felt sorry for Ida, I couldn’t deeply relate to her because I’m a middle-aged English woman, not an American teen. I felt as if I were observing from the outside, rather than in her head. That being said, I was completely convinced by her character, and by that of the African characters playing their parts, especially Omo, Lev’s wonderful grandmother.
Poor Ida, though. Whilst grieving for her best friend, who’s untimely death casts a constant long shadow, she’s basically tricked into keeping the baby after her one-night-stand promises to support her, then reneges on the deal after it’s too late to terminate. She’s bullied at school by girls who should know better, because of her situation. Then her parents decide the best course of action is to send her to Africa (I’m not entirely sure where, exactly) and let them deal with the problem. No wonder she’s prickly a lot of the time.
Lev was hotness personified, but his attitude raised a lot of red flags for me. He was a polarising character. You’ll either love him or hate him for his controlling, even manipulative, behaviour, as he leads on another woman (Baba) in order to guilt-trip Ida to doing what he wants.
Engen, Ida’s closest friend, was a wounded soul, hurting from the loss of his best friend and seeing a more powerful adversary move in on the girl he loved. His awkwardness, anger and the silly games this love triangle played were incredibly convincing, as well as frustrating. I wanted to bang their heads together. This felt totally REAL. Lord, I’m glad I no longer have teenagers!
Finally, I think this is a well-written YA story, with two hot male leads and a sullen female protagonist, not dissimilar to Twilight but without the sparkly vamps and wolf shifters. There is a sizzling undercurrent of lust and jealousy rippling through the story – cleverly done as there are no overtly sexy scenes. This story ends on a cliffhanger but the next two books are already out, so if you enjoy this book, you can immediately continue the series. Be prepared to wait to see who Ida chooses in the end.
I really enjoyed this book because it was so unusual. The author wasn’t afraid to make her main character a little aloof and impetuous. Although I felt sorry for Ida, I couldn’t deeply relate to her because I’m a middle-aged English woman, not an American teen. I felt as if I were observing from the outside, rather than in her head. That being said, I was completely convinced by her character, and by that of the African characters playing their parts, especially Omo, Lev’s wonderful grandmother.
Poor Ida, though. Whilst grieving for her best friend, who’s untimely death casts a constant long shadow, she’s basically tricked into keeping the baby after her one-night-stand promises to support her, then reneges on the deal after it’s too late to terminate. She’s bullied at school by girls who should know better, because of her situation. Then her parents decide the best course of action is to send her to Africa (I’m not entirely sure where, exactly) and let them deal with the problem. No wonder she’s prickly a lot of the time.
Lev was hotness personified, but his attitude raised a lot of red flags for me. He was a polarising character. You’ll either love him or hate him for his controlling, even manipulative, behaviour, as he leads on another woman (Baba) in order to guilt-trip Ida to doing what he wants.
Engen, Ida’s closest friend, was a wounded soul, hurting from the loss of his best friend and seeing a more powerful adversary move in on the girl he loved. His awkwardness, anger and the silly games this love triangle played were incredibly convincing, as well as frustrating. I wanted to bang their heads together. This felt totally REAL. Lord, I’m glad I no longer have teenagers!
Finally, I think this is a well-written YA story, with two hot male leads and a sullen female protagonist, not dissimilar to Twilight but without the sparkly vamps and wolf shifters. There is a sizzling undercurrent of lust and jealousy rippling through the story – cleverly done as there are no overtly sexy scenes. This story ends on a cliffhanger but the next two books are already out, so if you enjoy this book, you can immediately continue the series. Be prepared to wait to see who Ida chooses in the end.
January 22, 2021
If you’re into YA novels with a mix of drama and deep romance. Then this book is for you!
Synopsis: Ida Denmark is a 17-year-old girl from Minnesota going through the motions of grief. The death of her best friend left her mentally drained, depressed, and caused her to have an unfortunate one night stand that left her pregnant. To make matters worst, as punishment, her parents shipped her to Africa to join Youth of American Help a Nation (YAHAN). A humanitarian program that is, somewhat, similar to the peace corps. A trip that was supposed to teach Ida responsibilities, left her falling in love with two different boys and questioning her life choices. Is Ida ready to make the right decisions for herself and her unborn child or will she cave into the love games? You’ll have to read the book to find out!
The Good: The author is a brilliant writer. The storyline was intriguing and the description of the setting and scenery made me feel as if I was actually in Africa watching the drama unfold. The author did well on hitting all 5 senses. I could practically feel the vibrant sun and hear the laughter of all the children that were described in the orphanage. It was very touching.
The Bad: The main character, Ida, was tough to connect with and often left me questioning her motives. She made decisions that left me jaw-dropping. Then I had to remember, she is 17.
The Ugly: It is a YA novel so someone is bound to get their feelings hurt. Unfortunately, it isn’t the main character. She’s fortunate enough to come out of the situation winning! My heart goes out to the Lovers that lost the battle of Ida. Goodbye Dan, you didn’t have a chance from the beginning, HAHA!
Overall: This is a story that will stick with you. It’s a book that is 100% book club-worthy. The writing, storyline, and drama will leave you wanting more from the author. I highly recommend this book!
August 21, 2021
Janet Olson spins a heartening and absorbing tale set in Uganda as a 17-year-old pregnant young woman copes with her friend’s untimely death, helps orphans and chooses between two love interests.
The book begins with Ida Denmark, a Minnesota teen, reflecting on her parents’ decision to send her to Uganda to take part in the Youth of America Help a Nation program, after learning that she was pregnant from a one-night stand. The unusual premise isn’t as far-fetched to Ida as it sounds, as her grandfather formed personal connections in the country while working for the United Nations. The trajectory of her time there is divided into three main storylines: coping with her pregnancy and decision on keeping the baby, learning about life in Uganda and choosing between two love interests Engen and Lev. Neither are the baby’s father. Though the streets and the people of Mukono, Uganda, didn’t come alive as a vivid, sensory experience for me as a reader, Ida’s feelings of being a fish out of water resonate as she learns how to cook and make arts and crafts with the young orphans while hiding her pregnancy as long as she can from the other volunteers. The slow-burn romances between Ida and Engen and Ida and Lev form the suspenseful heart of the narrative and showcase some of Olson’s charming writing: “You taste like Christmas morning.” This by no means a traditional YA romance, but Olson weaves the storylines together in a compelling fashion and keeps dramatic tension alive throughout as readers learn more about Engen and Ida’s back story and join Team Lev or Team Engen. In the end, unresolved situations leave the door open for more entries in Ida’s compelling journey.
An appealing and good-hearted love story about a teen searching for her distinct identity while carving her place in the world as a young mother. I recommend it!
The book begins with Ida Denmark, a Minnesota teen, reflecting on her parents’ decision to send her to Uganda to take part in the Youth of America Help a Nation program, after learning that she was pregnant from a one-night stand. The unusual premise isn’t as far-fetched to Ida as it sounds, as her grandfather formed personal connections in the country while working for the United Nations. The trajectory of her time there is divided into three main storylines: coping with her pregnancy and decision on keeping the baby, learning about life in Uganda and choosing between two love interests Engen and Lev. Neither are the baby’s father. Though the streets and the people of Mukono, Uganda, didn’t come alive as a vivid, sensory experience for me as a reader, Ida’s feelings of being a fish out of water resonate as she learns how to cook and make arts and crafts with the young orphans while hiding her pregnancy as long as she can from the other volunteers. The slow-burn romances between Ida and Engen and Ida and Lev form the suspenseful heart of the narrative and showcase some of Olson’s charming writing: “You taste like Christmas morning.” This by no means a traditional YA romance, but Olson weaves the storylines together in a compelling fashion and keeps dramatic tension alive throughout as readers learn more about Engen and Ida’s back story and join Team Lev or Team Engen. In the end, unresolved situations leave the door open for more entries in Ida’s compelling journey.
An appealing and good-hearted love story about a teen searching for her distinct identity while carving her place in the world as a young mother. I recommend it!
August 18, 2021
New Beginnings is the story of Ida Denmark, a pregnant teen who travels to Africa as part of a youth outreach program to volunteer at an orphanage. At first, I was willing to suspend my disbelief that Ida’s parents would send their pregnant daughter to another continent because I liked Olson’s writing style—it’s expressive, well-edited, solidly paced, and has a pleasant, easy-to-read flow. However, the plot didn't really resonate with me. Rather than focusing on Ida’s pregnancy or her experience at the orphanage, the story is mostly about whether she’ll fall in love with Engen, her handsome friend, or Lev, the handsome orphanage director.
I think love triangles can be an interesting plot device, but for me, this one just didn’t have enough complexity or believability. Both Ida's love interests, as well as her baby’s father, were all extremely attracted to her, while most other women in the story were smitten with Ida’s suitors—who of course, only had eyes for Ida. It just didn’t feel like an actual situation.
I also felt that this book needed a stronger ending. I think authors sometimes feel that if their book is part of a series, they don’t need to resolve their story—but it’s still important to resolve the central plot so readers feel satisfied, while leaving maybe a B plot or C plot unresolved to tempt people to read book two.
I did really like Ida’s younger brother Paul, though. He was an interesting, quirky character, and I think it would be great if he appeared more in future books.
I think love triangles can be an interesting plot device, but for me, this one just didn’t have enough complexity or believability. Both Ida's love interests, as well as her baby’s father, were all extremely attracted to her, while most other women in the story were smitten with Ida’s suitors—who of course, only had eyes for Ida. It just didn’t feel like an actual situation.
I also felt that this book needed a stronger ending. I think authors sometimes feel that if their book is part of a series, they don’t need to resolve their story—but it’s still important to resolve the central plot so readers feel satisfied, while leaving maybe a B plot or C plot unresolved to tempt people to read book two.
I did really like Ida’s younger brother Paul, though. He was an interesting, quirky character, and I think it would be great if he appeared more in future books.
May 18, 2020
Janet Olson’s debut YA novel New Beginnings is a must read! Janet sent us her book and we are so grateful!!! I picked this book up and the next thing I knew, it was several hours later and I had finished it. What a great story!
Ida is a pregnant teen sent to Africa to learn from her “mistakes”. Her best friend Engen is also sent. Their “punishment” is to volunteer for 6 months with an orphanage and its surrounding village.
Engen and Ida are still reeling from the sudden death of their best friend and now they must find a way to heal while dealing with unresolved feelings for each other thousands of miles from home. Ida is also determined to return home with her new born baby and turn her over to the father. She is certain that she wants nothing to do with the child. Will the work she does in Africa change the way she feels and will the experience bring her and Engen closer together or push them further apart?
This book is available on kindle unlimited for free right now! Please take advantage of this great deal and support this amazing author! This writing in this book flows seamlessly and effortlessly and I could not put it down!
I was very pleased to see that there will be a second book following Ida’s story and I can only hope and pray that I don’t have to wait too long to find out what happens next!!!
Ida is a pregnant teen sent to Africa to learn from her “mistakes”. Her best friend Engen is also sent. Their “punishment” is to volunteer for 6 months with an orphanage and its surrounding village.
Engen and Ida are still reeling from the sudden death of their best friend and now they must find a way to heal while dealing with unresolved feelings for each other thousands of miles from home. Ida is also determined to return home with her new born baby and turn her over to the father. She is certain that she wants nothing to do with the child. Will the work she does in Africa change the way she feels and will the experience bring her and Engen closer together or push them further apart?
This book is available on kindle unlimited for free right now! Please take advantage of this great deal and support this amazing author! This writing in this book flows seamlessly and effortlessly and I could not put it down!
I was very pleased to see that there will be a second book following Ida’s story and I can only hope and pray that I don’t have to wait too long to find out what happens next!!!
March 28, 2021
Compelling and beautiful. I loved it!
This story had me gripped from page one. The characters are so well written and develop beautifully throughout that it is impossible not to get involved. The story is rooted in grief as Ida tries to come to terms with the death of her best friend. Through her confusion and shock, she has a one night stand and becomes pregnant. Her parents send her away on a youth scheme to try and sort herself out. She doesn’t want to go but the beautiful story that ensues is compelling.
Ida is a strong, independent, feisty and flawed young woman who finds herself in a love triangle with Engen (oh Engen) and Lev. She never lets the boys make a decision for her and I love that about her. Teenagers should read this book for that alone. But what really had my emotions going with this novel is how well grief is shown through her eyes. Ida is so broken by the loss of her friend that she allows it to control her, making decisions based on the guilt she feels. I felt frustrated, relieved, excited, and a little bit broken myself as I stepped back into my teenage years. This novel is brilliantly written, I immediately bought the sequel, and I’ll probably go back and read this one again. I could go on and on but just go and read it. Honestly cannot recommend highly enough.
This story had me gripped from page one. The characters are so well written and develop beautifully throughout that it is impossible not to get involved. The story is rooted in grief as Ida tries to come to terms with the death of her best friend. Through her confusion and shock, she has a one night stand and becomes pregnant. Her parents send her away on a youth scheme to try and sort herself out. She doesn’t want to go but the beautiful story that ensues is compelling.
Ida is a strong, independent, feisty and flawed young woman who finds herself in a love triangle with Engen (oh Engen) and Lev. She never lets the boys make a decision for her and I love that about her. Teenagers should read this book for that alone. But what really had my emotions going with this novel is how well grief is shown through her eyes. Ida is so broken by the loss of her friend that she allows it to control her, making decisions based on the guilt she feels. I felt frustrated, relieved, excited, and a little bit broken myself as I stepped back into my teenage years. This novel is brilliantly written, I immediately bought the sequel, and I’ll probably go back and read this one again. I could go on and on but just go and read it. Honestly cannot recommend highly enough.
March 21, 2021
New Beginnings is a fiction book about a seventeen year old who travels to Africa while she is pregnant. While she is there, she struggles between loving her best friend, and loving a man that seems to be “her fate.”
I stayed up until 2AM to read this (which says a lot, normally I’m asleep by 10:30pm.) I got deeply involved in Ida’s life and her struggles between these two men. To be honest, this is the first story I have read of its kind.
Being the analyst that I am, I reached out to the author. We discussed flat arcs, (or in more casual terms, certain characters/side characters maintaining homeostasis during tough times.) I have not read a book with more than one flat arc. No spoilers, but this author is genius to incorporate more than one technical flat arc while still keeping intrigue and suspense. Different foreshadowing points may not be as they appear in this novel, so I think you will be surprised by the ending.
I also listened to a podcast where Janet speaks more in-depth about the book, to satiate my appetite for more.
I stayed up until 2AM to read this (which says a lot, normally I’m asleep by 10:30pm.) I got deeply involved in Ida’s life and her struggles between these two men. To be honest, this is the first story I have read of its kind.
Being the analyst that I am, I reached out to the author. We discussed flat arcs, (or in more casual terms, certain characters/side characters maintaining homeostasis during tough times.) I have not read a book with more than one flat arc. No spoilers, but this author is genius to incorporate more than one technical flat arc while still keeping intrigue and suspense. Different foreshadowing points may not be as they appear in this novel, so I think you will be surprised by the ending.
I also listened to a podcast where Janet speaks more in-depth about the book, to satiate my appetite for more.
July 2, 2022
‘New Beginnings’ is a great title for this book about young love and dealing with grief. It’s easy to forget how relationships can be the best part of life or be utterly devastating when you are still getting to know yourself and control isn’t always in your own two hands.
Olson’s story is about many other things too — mistakes, decisions, responsibility but most of all — it’s about learning to navigate love, family, and friendships.
Main character Ida travels abroad for a semester and isn’t happy about it—she’s not happy about very much after losing her best friend in a tragic accident. An introvert, Ida doesn’t make friends easily and losing her friend hits especially hard.
When Ida discovers she’s pregnant, her parents decide a few months volunteering in Africa will help her come to grips with her situation. Instead it complicates every aspect of her life. But are complications always bad?
Great story, relatable characters, and real situations make for an enjoyable read. I’m excited that ‘New Beginnings’ is the first in a series because I want more.
Olson’s story is about many other things too — mistakes, decisions, responsibility but most of all — it’s about learning to navigate love, family, and friendships.
Main character Ida travels abroad for a semester and isn’t happy about it—she’s not happy about very much after losing her best friend in a tragic accident. An introvert, Ida doesn’t make friends easily and losing her friend hits especially hard.
When Ida discovers she’s pregnant, her parents decide a few months volunteering in Africa will help her come to grips with her situation. Instead it complicates every aspect of her life. But are complications always bad?
Great story, relatable characters, and real situations make for an enjoyable read. I’m excited that ‘New Beginnings’ is the first in a series because I want more.
January 1, 2023
Unpredictable, emotionally numb and humors. I know it might sound crazy to have all three descriptions but the way in which this author's creativity appealed to me was stellar. The book had the most humor I have read in ages. Ida must have been the strangest, most twisted and unpredictable character I have met in one teen. But it was fun. She might have been unstable and chilling but somewhere at the core of her heart she was just everyone's caretaker in the strangest ways.
Being totally immersed into the dynamics of Ida and her lover boys: Engen and Lev, sadly I cannot say the same for Dan since he was just her infatuation gone wrong leaving her with a bump to somehow give her dead friend a gift sending her to another continent to atone her mistakes.
Where does that leave Engen and Lev? My heart ached. I was torn between the males as I could not choose who Ida should settle for in the end simply because the guys were equally amazing with their flaws. It’s the perfect book to read with a family of teens and young adults.
Being totally immersed into the dynamics of Ida and her lover boys: Engen and Lev, sadly I cannot say the same for Dan since he was just her infatuation gone wrong leaving her with a bump to somehow give her dead friend a gift sending her to another continent to atone her mistakes.
Where does that leave Engen and Lev? My heart ached. I was torn between the males as I could not choose who Ida should settle for in the end simply because the guys were equally amazing with their flaws. It’s the perfect book to read with a family of teens and young adults.
September 27, 2020
Janet Olson’s “New Beginnings” is far from a typical young adult romance. It’s also a fish-out-of-Water, surprise baby, friends-to-lovers, everyone sees it but them, love triangle that takes place at some point in the future and spends the majority of the time in set in Africa.
While I had a hard time relating to the characters and felt the storyline was a little slow, it was an interesting and unique enough story to keep me reading and I think the second half of the book was better than the first.
I was constantly torn between the two love interests: Lev and Engen. Before finally selecting my ‘ship in the last 25% of the book.
I loved the obvious tension in the relationships and the fact that this book is so different from others.
I recommend this book to anyone that loves young adult romance novels and is looking for a break from the usual storylines and settings. Just beware the cliffhanger at the end!
While I had a hard time relating to the characters and felt the storyline was a little slow, it was an interesting and unique enough story to keep me reading and I think the second half of the book was better than the first.
I was constantly torn between the two love interests: Lev and Engen. Before finally selecting my ‘ship in the last 25% of the book.
I loved the obvious tension in the relationships and the fact that this book is so different from others.
I recommend this book to anyone that loves young adult romance novels and is looking for a break from the usual storylines and settings. Just beware the cliffhanger at the end!
February 8, 2021
A story every teenager should read!
5/5 Star Review!
Janet Olsen has written a story called New Beginnings that I think every teenager should read. It should be part of school curriculum. It is a coming of age tale for a young girl named Ida, who finds herself pregnant after a one night stand. She has lost her best friend to death and her other best friend is acting angry since the death. The two are sent to Africa to volunteer. She meets Lev while helping at the orphanage, as he is in charge there. She soon has a problem, and it's not just the pregnancy. Her friend Engen seems to love her and so does Lev. A love triangle ensues. What I loved about this book is that Ida is a strong female character. She would be a good role model for young girls who find themselves in this situation. I felt for each of the characters. It was written beautifully. The grammar was on point. I look forward to seeing much more from this author. Bravo Janet Olson!
5/5 Star Review!
Janet Olsen has written a story called New Beginnings that I think every teenager should read. It should be part of school curriculum. It is a coming of age tale for a young girl named Ida, who finds herself pregnant after a one night stand. She has lost her best friend to death and her other best friend is acting angry since the death. The two are sent to Africa to volunteer. She meets Lev while helping at the orphanage, as he is in charge there. She soon has a problem, and it's not just the pregnancy. Her friend Engen seems to love her and so does Lev. A love triangle ensues. What I loved about this book is that Ida is a strong female character. She would be a good role model for young girls who find themselves in this situation. I felt for each of the characters. It was written beautifully. The grammar was on point. I look forward to seeing much more from this author. Bravo Janet Olson!
July 23, 2021
I think this is a great story for teenage girls to read. It says a lot about YA consequences and friendships. Ida is sent on a school sponsored trip to Africa to teach her about the ‘real’ world. Circumstances including Ida pregnant at 16 and her best friend dying in a tragic accident seem to be the underlying reason behind this decision. Ida and her long-time friend Engen are sent to Africa to do volunteer work and share a background and history, he hopes. But Ida's new boss, the charismatic Lev, has his own ideas about Ida. He knows all about her and her family...and he likes her, a lot! I enjoyed the teenage angst and easy banter between the young people. The African setting was different and refreshing also. My only concern was Ida's non-chalent attitude toward her pregnancy. It was almost a non-issue where her romances were concerned. Olson has a good handle on teenagers and their actions and reactions. Definitely recommend this book for anyone looking for a good story.
August 11, 2021
A lovely story of teens figuring out life, love, and loss. This book deals with some heavy issues, but does so in an empathetic, caring way.
The plot centers on the death of a friend among a group of teens. All ensuing events spiral out from that tragedy as Ida struggles with her grief at the same time as dealing with trying to figure out what to do with her life after high school- a struggle coming for most teens. And she has to come to terms with the fallout of a decision she made in her grief. One that affects her other two (surviving) best friends.
All this set against a backdrop of an African orphanage through which Ida learns more about her reclusive (to her) grandfather, her friends, and herself.
The topics were handled with great care & emotion. The things Ida deals with are quite realistic. Though I will say I did struggle a bit to accept the idea of a pregnant American teen being sent to Africa in part because she was pregnant.
The plot centers on the death of a friend among a group of teens. All ensuing events spiral out from that tragedy as Ida struggles with her grief at the same time as dealing with trying to figure out what to do with her life after high school- a struggle coming for most teens. And she has to come to terms with the fallout of a decision she made in her grief. One that affects her other two (surviving) best friends.
All this set against a backdrop of an African orphanage through which Ida learns more about her reclusive (to her) grandfather, her friends, and herself.
The topics were handled with great care & emotion. The things Ida deals with are quite realistic. Though I will say I did struggle a bit to accept the idea of a pregnant American teen being sent to Africa in part because she was pregnant.
December 19, 2020
Holy love triangle!
This is an incredible read from Janet Olson. I absolutely loved the setting. She painted Africa beautifully and made me want to go there. The writing is smooth and has a way of really pulling you in. I could picture everything perfectly and loved the vibe!
The two leading guys in the story were both likable (but I definitely had a favorite from the beginning!). I think this story is relatable and a good book for girls to read. It’s important to see that romance and love goes beyond the “perfect boyfriend”. You might not love a guy who says and does all the right things and that’s okay! I love that message.
Ida’s pregnancy brought so much depth to the story. I loved to see the transformation she made. It’s amazing how much a person can change when they finally allow themselves to be happy.
I can’t wait to see what comes next for these characters!
This is an incredible read from Janet Olson. I absolutely loved the setting. She painted Africa beautifully and made me want to go there. The writing is smooth and has a way of really pulling you in. I could picture everything perfectly and loved the vibe!
The two leading guys in the story were both likable (but I definitely had a favorite from the beginning!). I think this story is relatable and a good book for girls to read. It’s important to see that romance and love goes beyond the “perfect boyfriend”. You might not love a guy who says and does all the right things and that’s okay! I love that message.
Ida’s pregnancy brought so much depth to the story. I loved to see the transformation she made. It’s amazing how much a person can change when they finally allow themselves to be happy.
I can’t wait to see what comes next for these characters!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 15, 2021
Sweet love triangle involving teenagers working in an African orphanage.
Easy to read, gripping and very well written. Not a typo in sight!
To start with I found it a bit tricky to get my head around the MC being so gorgeous that every super attractive boy was head over heels for her, whether she was interested or not. However as the story progressed and the characters grew, I could understand it more. They were all very well developed and genuinely felt real, and all morally grey.
I loved how Ida's attitude towards the baby reflected her character growth and arc beautifully.
That cliff hanger ending though!! I can't wait to see what she chooses. In my mind the correct choice is obvious!
This book is fade to black stream wise. It focuses much more on the relationships between the Americans than African culture.
Easy to read, gripping and very well written. Not a typo in sight!
To start with I found it a bit tricky to get my head around the MC being so gorgeous that every super attractive boy was head over heels for her, whether she was interested or not. However as the story progressed and the characters grew, I could understand it more. They were all very well developed and genuinely felt real, and all morally grey.
I loved how Ida's attitude towards the baby reflected her character growth and arc beautifully.
That cliff hanger ending though!! I can't wait to see what she chooses. In my mind the correct choice is obvious!
This book is fade to black stream wise. It focuses much more on the relationships between the Americans than African culture.
March 16, 2021
This young adult novel will leave you wanting more! Like in any good story, the main character, Ida, is a strong young woman, but throughout the novel the reader learns of her weaknesses, what caused those cracks, and then gets to struggle along with Ida as she learns and grows throughout the book. And like in any good young adult story, you find yourself struggling to decide which love interest you want to help support Ida as she navigates being far from home and adapting to the changes in her life. Team Engen? Team Lev? Or perhaps, simply, Team Ida!
I am hopeful that newcomer Janet Olson will continue the story, because there's so much more to learn about the characters. I want to know more about their future, but I also want to know more about the past that led them to become the people they are in New Beginnings.
I am hopeful that newcomer Janet Olson will continue the story, because there's so much more to learn about the characters. I want to know more about their future, but I also want to know more about the past that led them to become the people they are in New Beginnings.
November 30, 2020
Finally, a YA heroine who feels real!
Usually I have issues with YA leads. They are predictably juvenile and their narration can be very... trite.
I appreciate that representing the teenage mind in a narrator is not an easy job but I do feel that they are not representative of how I thought and acted as a teenager.
Now enter Ida Denmark, a YA heroine without the pitfalls of naivity and immaturity. She's witty, she knows her own mind and she's complex.
Here Olson has avoided creating a stereotypical teenage facsimile, and instead produced a multifaceted, flawed, likeable and interesting young woman.
Even if romance isn't your thing, pick up this book and get to know Ida. You won't regret it.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Usually I have issues with YA leads. They are predictably juvenile and their narration can be very... trite.
I appreciate that representing the teenage mind in a narrator is not an easy job but I do feel that they are not representative of how I thought and acted as a teenager.
Now enter Ida Denmark, a YA heroine without the pitfalls of naivity and immaturity. She's witty, she knows her own mind and she's complex.
Here Olson has avoided creating a stereotypical teenage facsimile, and instead produced a multifaceted, flawed, likeable and interesting young woman.
Even if romance isn't your thing, pick up this book and get to know Ida. You won't regret it.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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