Review: Every Exquisite Thing by Matthew Quick

Nanette O'Hare is an unassuming teen who has played the role of dutiful daughter, hard-working student, and star athlete for as long as she can remember. But when a beloved teacher gives her his worn copy of The Bubblegum Reaper - the mysterious, out-of-print cult-classic - the rebel within Nanette awakens.

As she befriends the reclusive author, falls in love with a young but troubled poet, and attempts to insert her true self into the world with wild abandon, Nanette learns the hard way that sometimes rebellion comes at a high price.

So this is where I admit that I haven't read any of Quick's previews books, however I have heard of his work. Because of that I was really looking forward to this book and I haven't been disappointed. Every Exquisite Thing is a stunning and utterly unique story. I have read it in 24 hours which is good going for me.

The story is about Nannette. A girl that just isn't like everyone else or like people want her to be. She tries to do what other people expect from her but its not what she wants. Although Nannette isn't sure what it is that she wants. When a teacher gives her a book called The Bubblegum Reaper her life is turned upside down. She develops a friendship with the author and is brave enough to quit soccer team. This starts some bullying from her former team mates. Not just that but her already strained relationship with her parents becomes even more complicated.

The book is forever in her mind, she rereads it over and over again. She wants nothing more then discover what happens to the characters beyond the story. She is introduced to Alex who is also 'obsessed' with the story and she feels a connection with him straight away.

Nannette goes on a discovery of herself in a way. The book draws a very vivid picture of school life for someone who just isn't fitting in with everyone else. I felt like I understood her very well and I found myself hoping that Nannette will find what it is that she wants.

This is one of those books that will stay with you for a long time. Where the characters are just unforgettable. I picked this book up when ever I could and I found it near enough impossible to put down. Its an emotional rollercoaster for both the characters and the reader. It gives one hope that there is a place for everyone in this world, no matter how different they may be.

It is indeed a very exquisite read, emotional and very powerful. I am very impressed, its a work of art. 

I believe it is now time for me to pick up another of Quick's novels.

Thank you to Headline and Bookbridgr for my copy in exchange for my honest review.

Every Exquisite Thing is out now!