Nina is not OK

My first thoughts on this book was that it reminded me of the Georgia Nicolson series by Louise Renninson (for those who need another hint: Angus, Thongs and Full Frontal Snogging). It’s written in ‘teenager language’ and it’s so brutally honest, I couldn’t help but love the style like I did ten years ago. BUT after the first few pages, I realised that this book had a different edge – it didn’t focus on boy crushes, spots and bra sizes – instead there was a more sinister focus on how alcohol and sex combine and create a destructive cocktail for any older teenager.

Nina is seventeen, clever and knows how to have a good time…. unfortunately sometimes her idea of a good time ends up with her drinking so much she can’t remember the night before and the book explores the boundaries of taking advantage of someone whilst they’re drunk. On numerous occasions within the book, Nina ends up sleeping with men when she’s absolutely plastered and although I was shocked and disappointed with the men that slept with her, it was clear that there’s a very grey line between when it’s right and when it’s not.

As things get worse and Nina becomes an alcoholic – to the point where she swills vodka around her mouth before leaving for college – Nina not only alienates her family but also her friends and she’s given an ultimatum by her mum: get clean or you’re not my daughter.

Reading how the fog lifted in Nina’s head on all the events that had occurred during her road to recovery felt real and believable. As she detangles drinking from the loss of her father and begins to stand up against the man that raped her, I couldn’t help but feel a surge of proudness – a ‘you go girl!’ moment.

This book is never going to be a fictional classic but what I loved about it was the realness, the honesty and that it linked to a topic debated heavily this generation. It was also a helpful reminder that teenagers can be SO CRUEL…. Thank god I’m well past those years!

Until next time, Chloé x