Title: Lock and Key
Author: Sarah Dessen
Series: ---
Genres: Young Adult, Contemporary, Chick Lit
Publication & Year: Speak • 2008
Page Number: 283
Synopsis From Goodreads:
"Ruby, where is your mother?Ruby knows that the game is up. For the past few months, she's been on her own in the yellow house, managing somehow, knowing that her mother will probably never return.That's how she comes to live with Cora, the sister she hasn't seen in ten years, and Cora's husband Jamie, whose down-to-earth demeanor makes it hard for Ruby to believe he founded the most popular networking Web site around. A luxurious house, fancy private school, a new wardrobe, the promise of college and a future; it's a dream come true. So why is Ruby such a reluctant Cinderella, wary and defensive? And why is Nate, the genial boy next door with some secrets of his own, unable to accept the help that Ruby is just learning to give?Best-selling author Sarah Dessen explores the heart of a gutsy, complex girl dealing with unforeseen circumstances and learning to trust again."
My Rating: ★★★★★
Quotes I Like:
"The point is that no word has one specific definition. Maybe in the dictionary, but not in real life." - Ms. Conyers
"My point is, not everything's perfect, especially at the beginning. And it's all right to have a little bit of regret every once in a while. It's when you feel it all the time and can't do anything about it ... that's when you get into trouble." - Jamie
"Family isn't something that's supposed to be static or set, People marry in, divorce out. They're born, they die. It's always evolving, turning into something else." - Cora
My Thoughts:
Bags under my eyes, because I could not stop reading. This novel was definitely powerful and I could relate on a few levels to how Cora and Ruby felt. Poor Nate...his parents are assholes! Heather was sweet and Olivia was a joy. Family was definitely the key and theme in this novel and I must say -- it definitely has me thinking about my own family and emotions. Definitely a great read and I plan to read a lot more of Sarah Dessen's books.
- Spoiler Alert -
Okay Ruby and Cora's mom is a horrible person. I know she was suffering from the divorce and became depressed and an alcoholic, but to keep your daughters away from each other...that's messed up. I don't think any one should keep siblings away from one another. Then when Cora tried to tell Ruby the truth and she stormed out the house to go see her "friend with benefits" only to find out that her best friend and him were together was crazy.
Nate is such a sweet guy. I feel bad that he had to endure his father's issues and his mothers hatred, but thankfully Jamie and Cora were able to help him get away without him causing damage to himself.
I love how the relationship between he and Ruby developed over time. Definitely led to something meaningful. Found it even more amazing that they both wanted to help one another but neither of them were interested in receiving help until the last minute.
Very powerful book that revolves around family and trust. Highly recommend this novel to anyone looking for a great read!
Have you read this novel? What are your thoughts?