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This Mess You've Made
Savannah has one goal in life and that's to make it to high school graduation. Seems simple enough, but the demons in her head make it near impossible to think about the future. They know she's yearning for something that's nowhere near her grasp, and she's been holding on with the hopes of some day reaching it. But it's becoming harder to hold on and all she wants is to let go.
Aryn considers himself to be a special breed of monster and is constantly confronting the aftermath of one fatal mistake. He has no idea where he's headed, but he's more afraid of the past than he is of the future.The only thing he yearns for is to forget. That is, until he meets Savannah.
Their story is one of chaos, anger, first love, and healing as they try to save one another from themselves. But you know how it goes: you can't save anyone who doesn't want to be saved.
Aryn considers himself to be a special breed of monster and is constantly confronting the aftermath of one fatal mistake. He has no idea where he's headed, but he's more afraid of the past than he is of the future.The only thing he yearns for is to forget. That is, until he meets Savannah.
Their story is one of chaos, anger, first love, and healing as they try to save one another from themselves. But you know how it goes: you can't save anyone who doesn't want to be saved.
- GenresYoung AdultMental Health
240 pages, Paperback
Published November 23, 2020
6 people are currently reading
2612 people want to read
About the author
D.J. Hawkins
5 books49 followersD.J. Hawkins is an author and poet from Upstate, New York whose writing has been praised for its use of poetic imagery and exploration of complex topics like self-harm and depression. Her debut YA novel “This Mess You’ve Made” was published in November 2020. She published “Quietus,” the first installment of her dark, paranormal romance series The Death Witch in June of 2021 and released a second, expanded edition in 2022. Her poem “The Allegory of Us” has also been published by Oprelle publications in the anthology titled “Matter.” Her first poetry collection, "Phoenix Rising", was published winter 2022.
A middle school teacher by day, novelist by night, D.J. earned her BA in Literature from Hamilton College and a Masters of Teaching in English Education from BU. She currently lives in southern Massachusetts with her husband, newborn, and chonky cats Tofu and Luna.
A middle school teacher by day, novelist by night, D.J. earned her BA in Literature from Hamilton College and a Masters of Teaching in English Education from BU. She currently lives in southern Massachusetts with her husband, newborn, and chonky cats Tofu and Luna.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
March 13, 2021
Traumatizing events have occurred in Aryn and Savannah's childhoods leading to bruised souls and haunted minds as these two similar depressed teens unite. Their thoughts... The way each sees their world\life, the events within and their perceptive place in it are so unusually descriptive the reader feels the weight of their mental anguish and loneliness. Yet they are surrounded by friends, those that really care, they just don't understand.
In the case of Savannah, she is isolated and truly Alone, cast aside by absently neglectful parents. Aryn has the stability of mom and sister but is consumed by guilt from a tragic mistake. He is almost as lost as Savannah.
There is High School drama, and both love and mystery as the reader is provided the full scope of the couple's connection, but not until nearly the last chapters. And then there is the end. A powerful one. I won't spoil it.
Recommended for the more mentally mature teenager and all ages above. The main characters are told in first-person point of view in alternating chapters. I really like that. Provides more three dimension and a connection to the character. Overall I rate 4.5 Stars
In the case of Savannah, she is isolated and truly Alone, cast aside by absently neglectful parents. Aryn has the stability of mom and sister but is consumed by guilt from a tragic mistake. He is almost as lost as Savannah.
There is High School drama, and both love and mystery as the reader is provided the full scope of the couple's connection, but not until nearly the last chapters. And then there is the end. A powerful one. I won't spoil it.
Recommended for the more mentally mature teenager and all ages above. The main characters are told in first-person point of view in alternating chapters. I really like that. Provides more three dimension and a connection to the character. Overall I rate 4.5 Stars
April 2, 2021
Powerful writing for any audience to appreciate
Aryn and Savannah have faced significant tragedy and trauma in their young lives. Peering at their inner thoughts and becoming acquainted with their demons, it would seem neither is in any position to help themselves, let alone one another. But when they meet, in a rather unusual way, these lost souls are drawn to each other. Both are at the proverbial fork in the road, one path descending further into darkness and the other a chance for love and acceptance.
Told in dual POV, This Mess You've Made gradually reveals more about each character’s haunted past; the reader dives inside Savannah and Aryn’s minds to understand how they’ve gotten to where they are today. Though it features YA characters, the writing is mature and powerful enough for any reader to appreciate. Repeatedly, I was impressed with Hawkins as a wordsmith; for example: “The rain knocks nervously against the windows and lightning whispers sweet nothings across the dark sky.” Such skillful personification and imagery pulled me in, immersing me in the characters and story from the beginning. I look forward to more from this author.
Aryn and Savannah have faced significant tragedy and trauma in their young lives. Peering at their inner thoughts and becoming acquainted with their demons, it would seem neither is in any position to help themselves, let alone one another. But when they meet, in a rather unusual way, these lost souls are drawn to each other. Both are at the proverbial fork in the road, one path descending further into darkness and the other a chance for love and acceptance.
Told in dual POV, This Mess You've Made gradually reveals more about each character’s haunted past; the reader dives inside Savannah and Aryn’s minds to understand how they’ve gotten to where they are today. Though it features YA characters, the writing is mature and powerful enough for any reader to appreciate. Repeatedly, I was impressed with Hawkins as a wordsmith; for example: “The rain knocks nervously against the windows and lightning whispers sweet nothings across the dark sky.” Such skillful personification and imagery pulled me in, immersing me in the characters and story from the beginning. I look forward to more from this author.
December 7, 2020
I'm biased because this is my book, but I thoroughly enjoyed writing it and rereading it for the 10th time. I love my characters and how complex, (at times) dramatic, funny, and real they are. This is a slow-burn romance and a not-so-typical boy/girl next door story. The major themes of this book deal with depression, self-harm, and suicide and the characters face real problems, both internal and external.
I hope you give this book a chance. Savannah and Aryn are waiting!
I hope you give this book a chance. Savannah and Aryn are waiting!
April 4, 2021
It is a beautiful, debut novel. The story is interesting and can be finished in one sitting. The narration has a good pace and the dialogues are realistic. It is the story of Aryn and Savannah who have faced significant tragedy and trauma in their lives and how their love story is evolved. Although it is much more than a girl meets the boy story. The friendships and emotions that are woven into the story are beautiful. The point of view of the main characters is written so amazingly that you feel they are talking to you personally. Above all who doesn’t like high school love stories? I really loved it!
March 15, 2021
The author did a tremendous job telling the story from two protagonists - Aryn and Savannah - who strived to move on from tragic events to learn how to love again.
The author is technically gifted and insightful into the fragile minds of teenagers. A beautiful story.
The author is technically gifted and insightful into the fragile minds of teenagers. A beautiful story.
May 8, 2021
Love Is Pain 💔
Love is Pain to some people and this story is so much, and very deep that it becomes visceral. Fair warning, it may cause triggers to some readers.
I have never read anything like this before, I'm bawling here as I write this. Didn't know where this was going, but damn, it hurt all the way through. This story has deep, mental/painful anguish, and you realize that mental health is very painful and very real for some folks. Thank you for this story and opening my eyes and helping me understand how deep it can go.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Love is Pain to some people and this story is so much, and very deep that it becomes visceral. Fair warning, it may cause triggers to some readers.
I have never read anything like this before, I'm bawling here as I write this. Didn't know where this was going, but damn, it hurt all the way through. This story has deep, mental/painful anguish, and you realize that mental health is very painful and very real for some folks. Thank you for this story and opening my eyes and helping me understand how deep it can go.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 22, 2024
TW: Abuse (non-sexual), Self harm, Suicide
I need to let this one marinate for a bit. Romances centered around mental illness are risky. I didn't see anything particularly problematic with it, but I definitely will not recommend it to my teen with struggles with mental illness. But that is just me.
The prose is flowery and pretty. Sometimes a bit too heavy & I would find myself exhausted after some chapters. I'd definitely read more of this author in a book of poems or short stories.
I need to let this one marinate for a bit. Romances centered around mental illness are risky. I didn't see anything particularly problematic with it, but I definitely will not recommend it to my teen with struggles with mental illness. But that is just me.
The prose is flowery and pretty. Sometimes a bit too heavy & I would find myself exhausted after some chapters. I'd definitely read more of this author in a book of poems or short stories.
February 25, 2021
TW: depression, self-harm, suicide.
🦄🦄🦄
“You are a light in the darkness for me, and I’m convinced no
one’s ever burned as brightly as you do.”
🦄🦄🦄
Savannah has one goal in life and that's to make it to high school graduation. Seems simple enough, but the demons in her head make it near impossible to think about the future. They know she's yearning for something that's nowhere near her grasp, and she's been holding on with the hopes of some day reaching it. But it's becoming harder to hold on and all she wants is to let go.
Aryn considers himself to be a special breed of monster and is constantly confronting the aftermath of one fatal mistake. He has no idea where he's headed, but he's more afraid of the past than he is of the future.The only thing he yearns for is to forget. That is, until he meets Savannah.
Their story is one of chaos, anger, first love, and healing as they try to save one another from themselves. But you know how it goes: you can't save anyone who doesn't want to be saved.
🦄🦄🦄
This Mess You’ve Made is a coming of age novel by D.J. Hawkins that left me in tears. Not only is the author's storytelling skills and writing style is beautiful, the plot is immaculate. It's simple and delicate, yet the amount of emotions it packs because of the issues it talks about.
Savannah and Aryn are characters that are written not to make them appealing to the readerss, but to give a glimpse into struggles caused my trauma in a respectful way. However, it's not only sadness that makes their story, but how they find each other just when they're about to break, how they are each others stronghold in times of distress.
This book is termed as a love story or a romance novel, but I don't view it that way. I view it as so much more than just a girl meets boy love story.
Keeping the main characters aside, I adore their friends because they've stuck around because they want to. Sometimes the bonds of friendship runs stronger than those of family.
Overall, I loved this book with all my heart and is definitely a contender for the best books of 2021!
🦄🦄🦄
Rated 10/10
Melina L.
🦄🦄🦄
“You are a light in the darkness for me, and I’m convinced no
one’s ever burned as brightly as you do.”
🦄🦄🦄
Savannah has one goal in life and that's to make it to high school graduation. Seems simple enough, but the demons in her head make it near impossible to think about the future. They know she's yearning for something that's nowhere near her grasp, and she's been holding on with the hopes of some day reaching it. But it's becoming harder to hold on and all she wants is to let go.
Aryn considers himself to be a special breed of monster and is constantly confronting the aftermath of one fatal mistake. He has no idea where he's headed, but he's more afraid of the past than he is of the future.The only thing he yearns for is to forget. That is, until he meets Savannah.
Their story is one of chaos, anger, first love, and healing as they try to save one another from themselves. But you know how it goes: you can't save anyone who doesn't want to be saved.
🦄🦄🦄
This Mess You’ve Made is a coming of age novel by D.J. Hawkins that left me in tears. Not only is the author's storytelling skills and writing style is beautiful, the plot is immaculate. It's simple and delicate, yet the amount of emotions it packs because of the issues it talks about.
Savannah and Aryn are characters that are written not to make them appealing to the readerss, but to give a glimpse into struggles caused my trauma in a respectful way. However, it's not only sadness that makes their story, but how they find each other just when they're about to break, how they are each others stronghold in times of distress.
This book is termed as a love story or a romance novel, but I don't view it that way. I view it as so much more than just a girl meets boy love story.
Keeping the main characters aside, I adore their friends because they've stuck around because they want to. Sometimes the bonds of friendship runs stronger than those of family.
Overall, I loved this book with all my heart and is definitely a contender for the best books of 2021!
🦄🦄🦄
Rated 10/10
Melina L.
November 22, 2020
Spoiler alert! Star author is in the making.❤️
As they say, one who suffers knows what suffering is. Such is the story of Savannah. She wants to be reached but is unreachable. She is the bearer of her unspeakable misery. This story has that sparkle of high school life, innocent memories with friends, and much more. A very well written story which just grows on you gradually.
Uniqueness :
What’s unique about this book is how the author has turned an ordinary story into an extraordinary one.
Predictability:
The book kept me glued to the present narration, so there was no point where I could figure out the ending.
Writing Style :
It is both narrative and descriptive. The story is laid out from the point of view of two characters. Very easy to read without any break in the flow.
Cost worth :
The shipping is free within the US! There is also an ebook version available on amazon. The author is also giving a discount on using the code “ReferAFriend” when ordered from the author’s website.
Entertaining :
Who doesn’t like high school love stories? The story is definitely relevant for any age group. It kept me glued to the seat, and I finished the book in one go.
Verdict :
This book targets a specific age group. However, I feel everyone can binge read it. In the end, what matters is the story and its impact.
9/10 by bookers diary.
As they say, one who suffers knows what suffering is. Such is the story of Savannah. She wants to be reached but is unreachable. She is the bearer of her unspeakable misery. This story has that sparkle of high school life, innocent memories with friends, and much more. A very well written story which just grows on you gradually.
Uniqueness :
What’s unique about this book is how the author has turned an ordinary story into an extraordinary one.
Predictability:
The book kept me glued to the present narration, so there was no point where I could figure out the ending.
Writing Style :
It is both narrative and descriptive. The story is laid out from the point of view of two characters. Very easy to read without any break in the flow.
Cost worth :
The shipping is free within the US! There is also an ebook version available on amazon. The author is also giving a discount on using the code “ReferAFriend” when ordered from the author’s website.
Entertaining :
Who doesn’t like high school love stories? The story is definitely relevant for any age group. It kept me glued to the seat, and I finished the book in one go.
Verdict :
This book targets a specific age group. However, I feel everyone can binge read it. In the end, what matters is the story and its impact.
9/10 by bookers diary.
August 24, 2021
Holy mother of everything, I absolutely loved the way I could connect with this book.
Hi, I'm August. I have been battling a lengthy and just overall terrible war with depression since about 6th grade(5 years). I'm an avid book-reader, and an aspiring author. I've wanted to write about my battles and fights and small victories of depression and anxiety for so long, but have struggled to actually find a book that I could really relate to. The Fault In Our Stars, John Green, taps a bit into the life of someone who (a) understand what it’s like to be dying, and (b) not have died. But finally, FINALLY!! I found an author who understands what it's like to be trapped in your brain, in your body, in a world that seems to spin like a room when you're drunk, but you're standing there not understanding what's going on.
A teensy, tiny little problem that I found, disclaimer, this destroys my heart to say, where's the main plot? The book starts with the girls, goes onto Aryn and their love, but comes back to Savannah's dad in the end and then suddenly she's cured? The end seemed rushed and chaotic, as much as it hurts me everywhere to say this.
Other than this tiny little snag, I absolutely loved the book. Mrs. Hawkins, you have an incredible mind and way with words, I cannot stress enough how much I cannot wait for more from you from the future.
With admiration,
August.
Hi, I'm August. I have been battling a lengthy and just overall terrible war with depression since about 6th grade(5 years). I'm an avid book-reader, and an aspiring author. I've wanted to write about my battles and fights and small victories of depression and anxiety for so long, but have struggled to actually find a book that I could really relate to. The Fault In Our Stars, John Green, taps a bit into the life of someone who (a) understand what it’s like to be dying, and (b) not have died. But finally, FINALLY!! I found an author who understands what it's like to be trapped in your brain, in your body, in a world that seems to spin like a room when you're drunk, but you're standing there not understanding what's going on.
A teensy, tiny little problem that I found, disclaimer, this destroys my heart to say, where's the main plot? The book starts with the girls, goes onto Aryn and their love, but comes back to Savannah's dad in the end and then suddenly she's cured? The end seemed rushed and chaotic, as much as it hurts me everywhere to say this.
Other than this tiny little snag, I absolutely loved the book. Mrs. Hawkins, you have an incredible mind and way with words, I cannot stress enough how much I cannot wait for more from you from the future.
With admiration,
August.
May 20, 2021
Reading this book, the feeling that has accompanied me the most has been sadness.
Aryn and Savannah are 2 17-year-olds who carry a great weight on their shoulders.
Aryn blames himself for an accident that caused the death of his father and Savannah blames herself for her parents not wanting to spend time with her.
Both characters have a group of friends who support them, Aryn even has a little sister and a mother who are there for him.
Aryn and Savannah find their perfect match in each other, bc they both understand each other’s pain, and when they both talk about their pain it breaks your heart.
But there are times when love is not enough and you cannot save someone who doesn’t want to be saved.
Topics such as depression and suicide are covered in this book, and although some parts are hard, it’s worth reading.
“But you still want to die. You said it in the hallway.” She looks away, muttering, “What does it matter? You said we’re dead inside anyway.”You’re here with me right now, in this moment.” I loosen my hold on her, but she leans into me. “I want a million more, no, a lifetime more of moments with you so have to hold on and you have to fight. Even when it gets hard, even when you feel like there are only dark days ahead of you.”
Aryn and Savannah are 2 17-year-olds who carry a great weight on their shoulders.
Aryn blames himself for an accident that caused the death of his father and Savannah blames herself for her parents not wanting to spend time with her.
Both characters have a group of friends who support them, Aryn even has a little sister and a mother who are there for him.
Aryn and Savannah find their perfect match in each other, bc they both understand each other’s pain, and when they both talk about their pain it breaks your heart.
But there are times when love is not enough and you cannot save someone who doesn’t want to be saved.
Topics such as depression and suicide are covered in this book, and although some parts are hard, it’s worth reading.
“But you still want to die. You said it in the hallway.” She looks away, muttering, “What does it matter? You said we’re dead inside anyway.”You’re here with me right now, in this moment.” I loosen my hold on her, but she leans into me. “I want a million more, no, a lifetime more of moments with you so have to hold on and you have to fight. Even when it gets hard, even when you feel like there are only dark days ahead of you.”
September 12, 2021
I gave this book four stars for its slow beginning even though that same beginning includes the very content for which I would give it ten stars.
I compare D. J. Hawkins to famed author Osamu Dazai, who wrote “No longer Human”, a book of suicide, social alienation, and depression that became the second best-selling novel ever in Japan after Dazai committed suicide (A tough way to sell a book.). As a reader of Dazai, this book is a must as I can honestly say she tops him. I can also say that I often had the uncanny sensation that the author had experienced this herself. She turns out key descriptive phrases of how disturbed minds see a distorted view of the world and does so one after another. Although not all the phrases worked for me (neither did Dazai’s), some hit like home runs. Readers will want to find the one phrase of the many to choose from, write it down, and make it their motto. Once you find it, and you will, it will be worth ten stars and you’ll remember this book and maybe even read it again to find another. They are there.
Here’s my choice for depression: “Do you know what’s worse than a house with hidden skeletons and vengeful ghosts? A house that’s haunted by me.” Throw in the context of the house in which it was written and it hits like a hammer.
I compare D. J. Hawkins to famed author Osamu Dazai, who wrote “No longer Human”, a book of suicide, social alienation, and depression that became the second best-selling novel ever in Japan after Dazai committed suicide (A tough way to sell a book.). As a reader of Dazai, this book is a must as I can honestly say she tops him. I can also say that I often had the uncanny sensation that the author had experienced this herself. She turns out key descriptive phrases of how disturbed minds see a distorted view of the world and does so one after another. Although not all the phrases worked for me (neither did Dazai’s), some hit like home runs. Readers will want to find the one phrase of the many to choose from, write it down, and make it their motto. Once you find it, and you will, it will be worth ten stars and you’ll remember this book and maybe even read it again to find another. They are there.
Here’s my choice for depression: “Do you know what’s worse than a house with hidden skeletons and vengeful ghosts? A house that’s haunted by me.” Throw in the context of the house in which it was written and it hits like a hammer.
May 7, 2021
This was a very beautifully written first attempt by Deasia Hawkins, and I can see a very bright future ahead for her! The way she put this story together was wonderful, and it kept me yearning for more. Savannah and Aryn were both wonderful key players, but the supporting cast really brings this story to life.
The friendships and relationships are just so real, and feel so genuine. Even though the topics (depression, death, suicidal thoughts/ideology), Hawkins makes the topics feel genuine. I never felt like I was reading something contrived, but was rather placed inside of a story that the author really understands on some level. It wasn't overly dramatic, as a lot of YA novels about those topics tend to be without intention, so it was nice to read something that felt real, and both sad and hopeful at the same time.
It had a good flow as well. It bounced between the POVs of both Aryn and Savannah, but that never took me out of the story at all. It all worked together nicely, and their intermingled stories were both wonderfully woven. I was very impressed, and am eager to read more by this author going forward!
The friendships and relationships are just so real, and feel so genuine. Even though the topics (depression, death, suicidal thoughts/ideology), Hawkins makes the topics feel genuine. I never felt like I was reading something contrived, but was rather placed inside of a story that the author really understands on some level. It wasn't overly dramatic, as a lot of YA novels about those topics tend to be without intention, so it was nice to read something that felt real, and both sad and hopeful at the same time.
It had a good flow as well. It bounced between the POVs of both Aryn and Savannah, but that never took me out of the story at all. It all worked together nicely, and their intermingled stories were both wonderfully woven. I was very impressed, and am eager to read more by this author going forward!
March 21, 2021
The friendships in the book are amazing. They are wholesome, supportive, and true. There are moments where there is lack of understanding between friends, but the realness of that makes the book all the better.
The book starts off slowly; it really takes the time to introduce the reader to the characters. The reader is given insight into the minds of the protagonists, Savannah and Aryn. Initially, as completely separate individuals with their own separate lives and then as their paths begin to cross, their stories begin to intertwine.
The support these two individuals have from their chosen families is incredible. Mental illness is something difficult to understand if you haven't either experienced it yourself or been exposed to it before. Even then it can be difficult as it is different for everyone. This being said, both Aryn's and Savannah's friends genuinely and honestly love them and support them as best they can.
I hope to see a sequel or even a little novella showing more of the growth and healing the characters have been able to achieve together.
The book starts off slowly; it really takes the time to introduce the reader to the characters. The reader is given insight into the minds of the protagonists, Savannah and Aryn. Initially, as completely separate individuals with their own separate lives and then as their paths begin to cross, their stories begin to intertwine.
The support these two individuals have from their chosen families is incredible. Mental illness is something difficult to understand if you haven't either experienced it yourself or been exposed to it before. Even then it can be difficult as it is different for everyone. This being said, both Aryn's and Savannah's friends genuinely and honestly love them and support them as best they can.
I hope to see a sequel or even a little novella showing more of the growth and healing the characters have been able to achieve together.
September 5, 2021
Savannah has one goal in life and that's to make it to high school graduation. Seems simple enough, but the demons in her head make it near impossible to think about the future. This author is amazing and in her book This Mess You've made, DJ does it again. The thing I like most about Hawkins is her unique ability to think out of the box and she goes deep into the manifestations of the mind and what makes us humans. The mystery of the living experience and how we think has never been written about the way DJ Hawkin does it. I think this young woman may be one of my favorite authors! It's important for us to read, and ask questions about our amazing rising stars. My son also loves this author's books and I can't wait for his review. Each time I read this author's work, I see a hand out. Great job DJ!
January 24, 2021
A beautiful, captivating debut novel. Through expert storytelling, the plot unfolds as you get to know the characters, their personalities, and the traumas that shaped them. I devoured it in one sitting, I was so invested in the lives of Savannah and Aryn. The prose is also absolutely lovely. A couple of my favorite passages from the book that I found particularly memorable:
"Getting lost is a privilege. It means you're going somewhere. If you never get lost, then you are always stuck in the same spot."
"I can't help but wonder if he is the kind of property that is recently renovated, with no broken pipes or uneven foundation. Or if he is the old haunted mansion wobbling on a hill, filled with secret passageways and skeletons in the closet."
"Getting lost is a privilege. It means you're going somewhere. If you never get lost, then you are always stuck in the same spot."
"I can't help but wonder if he is the kind of property that is recently renovated, with no broken pipes or uneven foundation. Or if he is the old haunted mansion wobbling on a hill, filled with secret passageways and skeletons in the closet."
January 27, 2024
Lots of beautiful descriptive words but I am not sure how I feel about the ending.
Its a story about 2 teenagers, depression and terrible things that have happened. They both are incapable of dealing with the events that happened in their lives until they meet each other.
The reason I gave it 4 stars is because it was heartfelt about depression, cutting oneself and the reasons behind this and actually feeling like you could take your own life.
Its a story about 2 teenagers, depression and terrible things that have happened. They both are incapable of dealing with the events that happened in their lives until they meet each other.
The reason I gave it 4 stars is because it was heartfelt about depression, cutting oneself and the reasons behind this and actually feeling like you could take your own life.
November 8, 2020
Was given an advanced reader copy so I am writing a review in exchange for that. This is actually the first young adult book that I’ve read since I was a teenager.
The writing style is pretty poetic and I like how the two main characters are complex and are dealing with their own issues. I also love how the two main characters are people of color!
The writing style is pretty poetic and I like how the two main characters are complex and are dealing with their own issues. I also love how the two main characters are people of color!
November 24, 2020
An amazing debut by D.J Hawkins! This book takes your typical high school love story and deepens it, telling a story of love, depression and grief that is all too real for many these days. The prose is beautiful, poetic and at times haunting, and the two main characters are incredibly endearing. I look forward to seeing what this author does next! :)
November 7, 2021
I really loved the character development in this book. It starts a bit slow, but as you get into it, you appreciate how well fleshed out each character is, so you understand their actions better. Not too dramatic, but will definitely stir your emotions. Great dialogue and it keeps you on your toes. I recommend it if you like compelling stories beautifully told.
January 5, 2021
A well written and brilliant read. From the start you understand the inner turmoil and insecurities the main characters carry. As they learn to love and grow self awareness, the story consumes you from the beginning.
September 21, 2021
Powerfully Emotional Writing! This book tugged at my heartstrings in a very powerful/beautiful way! The connection the characters had was deep and it was captivating! Great Debut Novel by DJ Hawkins, I foresee a long successful career!
November 14, 2021
Well written, descriptive, and deeply emotional look at modern teenagers struggling with depression, family issues, and young love.
April 10, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This Mess You've Made is a raw, emotionally charged story about two broken teens trying to find light in each other while wrestling with their own darkness. D.J. Hawkins writes with unflinching honesty and tender vulnerability, making Savannah and Aryn’s journey both heartbreaking and deeply hopeful.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This Mess You've Made is a raw, emotionally charged story about two broken teens trying to find light in each other while wrestling with their own darkness. D.J. Hawkins writes with unflinching honesty and tender vulnerability, making Savannah and Aryn’s journey both heartbreaking and deeply hopeful.
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January 5, 20244.5
Nice cover! A story that deals with depression, suicide and first love. Told in two different POVs, Savannah's and Aryn's. After meeting one another they will try to heal each other and recover from the mental struggles that they've been dealing with.
It is a mix between books such as All the Bright Places and Everything, Everything, so the fans of those will probably like This Mess You've Made by D.J. Hawkins.
Nice cover! A story that deals with depression, suicide and first love. Told in two different POVs, Savannah's and Aryn's. After meeting one another they will try to heal each other and recover from the mental struggles that they've been dealing with.
It is a mix between books such as All the Bright Places and Everything, Everything, so the fans of those will probably like This Mess You've Made by D.J. Hawkins.
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