Posted by Lauren in Book Reviews, Contemporary, Featured | 7 Comments
What Happens Next by Colleen Clayton
What Happens Next by Colleen Clayton
Publisher: Poppy
Release date: October 9, 2012
Pages: 320
Summary: Sid’s life is going just fine until one terrible night. While at ski camp, she agrees to meet an older guy away from the chaperones and her friends. Sid is drugged, raped, and left without a memory of exactly what happened. Now she needs to figure out what happens next.
My thoughts: What Happens Next is most notable for the visceral reaction it evokes. Clayton is tackling a tough subject, and she does it such a way that leaves the reader feeling as if part of themself were experiencing the same thing Sid is. Readers will be heartbroken over Sid’s loss of self-confidence and struggle to recover from her rape. What Happens Next is definitely a tear-jerker, but in the best way possible.
Somehow—and I felt a little bit guilty about this, because the subject matter was so sensitive—I found myself enjoying the drama a little too much. But hey, technically that’s a good thing, right? Colleen Clayton’s writing style is compulsively readable, and the tension is so high in What Happens Next; it’s hard not to get caught up in the rollercoasterlike story.
My only quibble with What Happens Next was in the resolution of one of Sid’s major conflicts. I don’t want to get spoilery, so I won’t go into detail, however this is an issue that a boy can not cure you of with words. I was disappointed that Clayton took the easy way out with this singular issue. The other issues, however—like Sid’s inability to speak out, her loss of self-confidence, her tentativeness in a new relationship—were handled nicely.
If you’re fond of contemporary stories—especially ones that address issues in a tear-streaked, unfiltered way—then What Happens Next is a great choice. You won’t be able to stop turning the pages.
In Summation
Tear-inducing drama
+ page-turnability
+ a mostly good depiction of “issues”
= What Happens Next, an unforgettable read.
4/5 stars
For those who like: realistic fiction, issue books, romance
Find the author at colleenclayton.com.
Comment question: How do you feel about “heavier” books? Do you tend to avoid them, or do you like reading about “issues”?
I really love issue contemp, and this one sounds awesome:)
My favorite issue contemporaries are Geek Girl, Pushing the Limits, Speechless, Don’t Breathe a Word. They all tackle issues through incredibly real characters, and I think that’s the secret here, the characters. If we didn’t bond with them, the issue wouldn’t affect us.
Great review:)
This definitely sounds like my type of book. I love issue books. The heavier books bring out more emotion in me I think and I really enjoy reading them. Great review!
Amy @ Book Loving Mom recently posted..Blog Tour: Gravity by Melissa West Excerpt and Giveaway
I love ‘heavy’ books, as you call them. What Happens Next will probably tickle my fancy. Great review!
Wonderful review, Lauren! I have to agree – I loved the drama in this one and it was fabulous, although a bit disappointing on that one particular plot thread. In terms of “issue books” as I call them, I DO tend to avoid them, but I’ve started to really enjoy them off late. Split by Swathi Avasti is my favorite by far, so I’d highly recommend that one if you haven’t already checked it out! :)
Keertana @ Ivy Book Bindings recently posted..Review: In the Woods by Tana French
I like reading realistic fiction that includes issues. I just prefer happy endings :) I preordered this book and look forward to reading it.
I like reading about issue books as long as they are realistic and not blown out of proportion. I have this one on my TBR so I’m glad you enjoyed it so much!
kailia Sage recently posted..Review: Gilt by Katherine Longshore
I kind of like a heavier reads sometimes. The issue needs to be handled well though.