Breathless by Jessica Warman



“When Katie Kitrell is shipped off to boarding school, it doesn’t take her long to become part of the It Crowd. She’s smart, she’s cute, and she’s a swimming prodigy. What her new friends, roommate, and boyfriend don’t know is that Katie has kept a secret about her past—that her schizophrenic older brother, Will, is quickly descending deeper into insanity. As her lie constantly threatens to reveal itself, it’s all Katie can do to keep her head above water.”

I’ve been on a contemporary kick lately.  I’ve wanted to read this one for some time, someone on a message board I frequent said they were reading it, so I decided I’d buy it and finally read it, too.  The story is so real with a mix of fun drama and a bit of a terrifying storyline.

Considering all Katie had been through, I found her to be a strong, likeable character.  Her “lying” about her brother, seemed natural.  Who would want to admit their brother was crazy to a bunch of strangers?  Will, her brother, was such a terrifying character.  I found myself fearful when he’d be in a scene, wondering what he could possibly do next.  Most of all I LOVED Mazzie, Katie’s roommate.  Her character was so fun and down to earth, it made me wonder just what all she’d been through that she was keeping secret.

I loved the writer’s style.  Her portrayal of the characters was simply put, amazing.  I’ve already purchased her second book and can’t wait to read it.