Shades of Blue

This has to be one of the best YA novels I’ve ever read. Although it’s an awful long time since I’ve been a teenager, I had instant identification with the protagonist, a desire to find out about her, and so, a need to read on. Tension kept increasing as the story developed, to explode into the final denouement. Believable characters and action, vivid description and completely age-appropriate ways of thought and behavior bring the story to life.
The novel conveys several important messages of morality and ethics, but never by preaching (even by one character to another), and never on the surface. Perhaps the most important is not to judge people on the basis of rumor. For example, one girl is introduced as “backseat Britney,” the girl who gives a good time to any boy. We find out that this reputation is false, being deliberately generated slander, and when we learn her history, compassion just has to replace judgment. Many other lessons, similarly well presented, make this an inspiring guide to behavior for youngsters, as I said, without seeming to be so. On the surface, it’s just an exciting read.
The story has a female protagonist, and I think will primarily appear to girls, but boys should enjoy it, too.
Only one thing puzzled me while reading. The title is “shades of blue,” and many of the chapters are named for blue colors. I thought this must be a girl thing: I couldn’t see a connection. Even this got resolved on the last page.

The only book with the word "Shades" in the title that you'll ever need!

Suspenseful and engaging story with amazing characters.

This is such a sweet love story. About two kids growing up next door and going from best friends to falling in love. There is a lot of rocks to climb over for the two young kids. Things that are not predictable. This book will keep you guessing and you will not want to put it down. Be prepared to fall in love with JoJo and Sam. Even though their lives are like two different worlds, that doesn't stop the sweet love they have for each other and the support they give to one another in the time of need. Sometimes love is just written in the stars. A must read.