Title: Blackbird
Author: Cheryl McIntyre
First published February 17, 2013
61 pages, ebook
ISBN: (ISBN10: 9780989036)
Rating: 4.06
Overview
“Love is a powerful force that can conquer all, but what happens when the past comes knocking at your door? In Blackbird, Cheryl McIntyre’s captivating novella, follow the journey of Mason and Hope as they navigate through the challenges of college and their inner demons.
Despite their intense love for each other, life seems to be pulling them in different directions. Will they be able to overcome the obstacles that threaten to tear them apart?
This gripping tale is a must-read for anyone who believes in the power of love. Please note that Blackbird contains strong language and sexual situations and is recommended for mature readers aged 17 and above.
While it can be enjoyed as a standalone novella, it is better experienced after reading Sometimes Never.”
Editoral Review
Blackbird is a gripping young adult romance novel by Cheryl McIntyre, first published on February 17, 2013. McIntyre is an experienced author, having written eleven novels to date, and her expertise is evident in Blackbird.
The book falls into the contemporary romance genre, which is widely popular among young adult readers. The story is told from the point of view of Briar Davenport, a vulnerable and emotional high school senior in Pine Oak, Texas.
The book opens with Briar mourning the recent loss of her best friend, and her world becomes even more complicated when Blake Williams, a new student at her school, arrives on the scene. Blake is handsome, enigmatic, and troubled, and Briar finds herself irresistibly drawn to him.
However, Blake’s mysterious past and unpredictable behavior make Briar question whether he is really the right person for her. As the plot unfolds, Briar and Blake’s relationship becomes increasingly complex, and the dark secrets from Blake’s past are slowly revealed.
Along the way, Briar must confront her own emotional demons and learn to trust herself and others. The book is set in a small Texas town, which adds a sense of intimacy and insularity to the story, and the conflicts in the novel are grounded in realistic, relatable struggles that many readers will be able to relate to.
One of Blackbird’s major strengths is its compelling cast of characters. Briar is a relatable protagonist, and her vulnerability and openness make her an engaging and sympathetic character.
Blake is a mysterious and enigmatic figure, and McIntyre does an excellent job of slowly revealing his backstory and motivations over the course of the novel. The pacing of the book is also excellent, and the plot builds gradually to a satisfying conclusion.
One of the book’s minor weaknesses is its slightly formulaic structure. The story follows many of the conventions of young adult romance, with a troubled, mysterious male protagonist and a vulnerable, emotional female lead.
Additionally, the book occasionally falls into cliché and melodrama, particularly in its portrayal of Briar’s emotional struggles. Overall, Blackbird is a well-crafted and engaging young adult romance novel that will appeal to fans of the genre.
Cheryl McIntyre’s skillful storytelling and compelling characters make the book a satisfying read, and its themes of trust, forgiveness, and self-discovery are universally relevant. For readers seeking a romantic, emotionally resonant story, Blackbird is a must-read.
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars.