Book Review: Breaking Free by Winter Page

Breaking Free

Author: Winter Page
Reading Level: Young Adult
Genre: GLBT
Released: April 10, 2014
Review Source: Harmony Ink Press | Netgalley

Raimi Carter is finally a girl, just like she always knew she was meant to be. At a new school where nobody knows she’s had gender reassignment surgery, she hopes to finally live the normal life she’s longed for, happy in her own skin.

Life is great until she discovers a dangerous bully is blackmailing head cheerleader, Clare Strickland, threatening to reveal her secret: she’s gay. As Raimi fights to free Clare from his clutches, the two girls move beyond friendship. But secrets from their pasts and their own fears of coming out tear them apart—maybe forever. Baring their souls to each other could cost them everything. For two girls trapped and desperately in love, only strength, courage, and trust in each other will help them break free and claim their future.

Raimi Carter is finally who she is meant to be. A girl. Yes, Raimi is a transgender. And she's at a new school where no one knows this big secret she has. Then she meets Clare who's being threatened by blackmail. Raimi knows she has to step up and help Clare. But, there's a potential that may lead to even bigger problems with bullying.

I don't want to say I didn't enjoy Breaking Free. Don't get me wrong, it grasped my attention long enough to not put it down and finish it in a day. But, within this book there was lots of room for improvement. I'm glad Winter Page stepped up and wrote a GLBT novel, I just wish it would have been a bit more realistic. Breaking Free did not feel real to me at all. It felt like your typical "too staged" and "too rehearsed" play or movie. I mostly feel this way because of the dreadful ending. Just...no.

I will say I am giving this book a 3 tree rating because it still holds your attention. The story line between Raimi and Clare, although it felt "forced," is still intriguing enough to keep you reading. And, since there aren't enough GLBT books in the YA world, props to Page for stepping up!