Brenda Rothert went a little dark with this fascinating story of small town, football, and high school hijinks. It was such a riveting story!
Roper, Missouri, is a small town, where nothing happens, so it’s understandable that high school football reigns supreme. The football players are seen almost like gods, so not surprising that they are conceited and entitled.
Chase is the team quarterback, he’s not that bad, he comes from a crappy home life with an abusive father who is pushing his dreams upon his son, he’s under a lot of strain as his father is trying to make his decisions for him. All he wants is to get drafted and take his mother and sisters away from that horrible man.
Gin is a fantastic character, I loved her so much. Her mother is a famous author, so they live in a gorgeous mansion. Gin is an awesome girl, raised by a mother who taught her to respect her body and her dignity. Still, she dresses sloppily, dyes her red hair black, and tries her best to be invisible. She only has two friends, Raj and Lauren, and pretty much ignores the rest of the students. She’s looking forward to graduation and escaping this hick town!
When Chase decides to choose her as a recipient of the rose on game day, she not only refuses, she insults the tradition and calls it for what it is, an action whose only purpose is to degrade the girls who receive the rose. You need to read the book to learn what the Sweet Sixteen tradition is about. It’s sickening and horrible.
I loved the ruckus that starts as a product of Gin’s actions. I loved the road to redemption and growth that Chase goes on. Gin’s relation with her mom is stellar and has brilliant moments during this story. And through it all, Gin shines as she stands by her principles and forces a sort of revolution. It was very intriguing and exciting, with many dramatic moments. It kept me riveted to the very end, very happy and proud of Gin, hopeful for Chase as he grapples with the concepts, and disgusted at this small town school, with its lack of tolerance for diversity. Very recommended!
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