Review - Beautiful Chaos

Beautiful Chaos by Alex Tully

What they say: While most seventeen year-olds work part-time delivering pizzas or whipping up frappuccinos, Brady O’Connell’s job is a little less conventional. Helping his dad with the family ‘business’ is a responsibility he doesn’t take lightly, especially when thousands of dollars are being exchanged. There are rules to be followed, timetables to be kept. But when his best friend Jay gets backstage concert tickets, and business interferes with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to meet their favorite band, Brady decides to break the rules, just one time.

And one time is all it takes to send his life spinning out of control. When an envelope full of cash ends up in the wrong hands—specifically in the hands of a pretty red-head named Vivienne—things get messy in a hurry. Where Vivienne goes, a whole lot of chaos seems to follow.

But sometimes…chaos is a beautiful thing.

From the author of Hope for Garbage comes another fast-moving, emotionally-charged tale, full of plot twists that will keep you guessing, and true-to-life characters you will root for. Most of all, this is a story of first love—crazy, chaotic first love—love that hits us hard, and never lets go.

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I received a copy from YA Bound in exchange for an honest review!

What I say: On the surface Beautiful Chaos is about the happiness and agony of first love, but in realty the plot runs far deeper. Brady is a huge support to his Dad and has taken on a lot of responsibility for somebody his age. Vivienne is learning that life is far more complicated than she's used to.

Brady stood by his Dad, and is often more parent than child. Their story is difficult and sad but a twist of fate introduces him to Vivienne. As Brady and Vivienne find themselves on an unexpected mission they start to trust each other. 

Brady and Vivienne are both a little immature at times and are quick to jump to conclusions (often the wrong ones). I would have liked a little more balance in the pacing.

The depth of the story doesn't really come from the beginnings of their cute romance but from the deeper issues. The story touches upon teen violence, gambling, grief, guilt and greed.

I particularly loved the creative date Brady comes up with...

3 Stars in my Sky!