Thaw

It isn't often that a book comes along leaving me hating the main character but absolutely loving the complete package! The main character in this young adult novel is so refreshingly dislikable...a strange statement, I know, but really, take my word for it here. You'll have extreme disdain for him through most of the book, but by the end you'll love him and just want to give him a hug. When high school ski star and big man on campus, Dane begins suffering from Guillain-Barre Syndrome, life seems to stand still. Though the syndrome is not permanent, it results in Dane being completely immobile, having to slowly regain nerve function in his entire body and re-learn even the most basic of tasks all over again. While recovering, Dane resides in a rehabilitation home in central Florida, far from the snowy weather of his home in Upstate New York (YAY....my home too!) and very far from the verbal and mental abuse of his father. Given almost endless time to think and reflect on the past couple of years, Dane slowly begins to open his eyes to how he's treated people and why he is constantly surrounded by people, but always alone. Monica Roe did a beautiful job of creating an incredibly egotistical, smart mouthed main character that really believes he can do no wrong. He has treated his family badly, his girlfriend badly, and his teammates badly, though truly believes all that hurt is attributed to their faults, not his. As he struggles to become whole again, Dane's thought processes begin to shift and his coldness starts to melt, leaving him to try to mend fences that he had broken with his lack of care for others. Thaw was a true surprise to me. I really didn't like Dane in the beginning of the story, though I now see the point of the character being written the way he was. The plot is very strong and the characters all unique. This is a great teen novel and one I will most definitely be recommending to all.

Thaw is a remarkable read with rich characters and a fascinating story line. Roe draws the reader in from the first paragraph and keeps you engaged with her strong writing, unique story, and a flash-back technique that works extraordinarily well. Roe weaves together the voice of the protagonist and the emotions of the other characters in a compelling, satisfying manner that leaves you loving, hating and at times, holding your breath. Thaw is a story of revelation and redemption. And Roe has created one of the most satisfying endings I've read in a long time. The stories and the characters in this book will stay with you long after you finish reading. I highly recommend Thaw to anyone who loves a great read!

This book is a great read. I cannot believe this is her first novel. Her characters are so rich and full of life. I could not put the book down. Roe created a great level of suspense that made me want turn page after page to see what happens next. The word choice paints a beautiful picture and weaves a terrific plot. This book is a great choice for anyone and everyone!

This book is incredible. The author has brought the main character to life in a such a way that you develop strong emotional feelings for him while he's dealing with his disease. You start off hating Dane and his egotism, superiority and arrogance, and slowly grow to feel sorry for his situation and family life and then gradually begin to understand and grow fond of the person he becomes. The author did an incredible job of bringing to life the characters and the understanding of the disease in this book. While I am much older than the recommended age for this book, I would strongly recommend it for ALL ages! Incredible book. Incredible and believeable author.

I had the privilege of reading this book in manuscript form, and I'm looking forward to reading it again. Even as a boring thirty year old, I found it a really fun read and it sparked an interest in the work that physical therapists do. I also found the medical aspects of the story very interesting. It is very well written and thoughtful. I plan to buy a copy for my 14 year old brother in law as well. It's a compelling book, equally interesting for boys and girls, though perhaps a bit more morally useful for boys. The writer's approach toward the brutal years of teenagedom is raw, authentic and viable. I was easily drawn in!