"HAS TO BE LOVE," by Jolene Perry, Albert Whitman and Company, $16.99, 259 pages (f) (ageas 16 and up)
Author Jolene Perry weaves a story of love and self-discovery that emerges from tragedy in her latest book, "Has to Be Love."
Though she just got accepted to a prestigious college in New York, Clara Fielding is conflicted about her future. Leaving Alaska means leaving her boyfriend, Elias, and meeting lots of new people — people who will likely stare at the scars on her face and ask questions.
Tired of people always seeing her scars from the bear attack — the attack that killed her mother — Clara longs for someone to see her for who she really is: a talented writer. When Rhodes, an attractive new student teacher, first sees Clara for her writing and not her scars, Clara's life becomes more conflicted. Her desperation to feel wanted, desired and attractive clouds her better judgment.
While trying to decide what she wants, Clara finds herself making decisions that conflict with her Mormon faith. Elias is her "safe" choice, but Rhodes makes her feel like anything is possible. Moving across the country for college is intimidating but seems more doable once her scars get fixed. She believes her life can only truly begin after her scars are gone. Clara finds her heart, mind and desires in inner turmoil.
"Has to Be Love" is a story of love, introspection and overcoming obstacles — both perceived and actual. Perry's book does contain some mild swearing and some heavy kissing scenes, one of which contains partial described nudity. Though there is no sex in the book, there is described sexual content.
Perry, who is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, lives in Alaska and is the author of several young adult and speculative fiction novels.
Wendy Jessen is a regular contributor for familyshare.com and frequently does media reviews. Her email is wendyjessen26@gmail.com and she blogs at mormonmomofsix.blogspot.com.