This book is in the top 10 (out of hundreds) of books I have read. The story is beautiful. It highlights a population in our country that are ignored and marginalized. The books is a story about a young love, that is so mature in its selflessness and generosity. Kyland and Tenleigh are both high school students from a blighted coal mining town in Kentucky. They both want more than what life has offered them and are both competing for a scholarship that will allow them leave their tragic, poverty stricken and hopeless lives behind. Only one of them can win. What unfolds is a friendship that grows to an epic love story.
The high point of the book for me (after it taking us to a very heartbreaking low) was when Tenleigh finally realized what Kyland had really done and went to him. God, I was SO happy. I loved every single minute. This is my second Mia Sheridan book and this is the second time she has blown me away. I loved Kyland. He made an almost impossible decision. While I wish he had a chance to go where he wanted- it made for such an amazing story. This story made me cry first and then laugh with real happiness for the two wonderful characters who really embody the complex and dynamic notion of the American dream. This is one of the most poignant stories I have read this year. So so so beautiful and emotional. 6 Stars!
