Chasing Ghosts: A Reckless Perfection Novel by Laura Francois has four main characters: Angela es Fresh, Amanda Prescott, Julia Rodriquez, and Mercedez Mendoza. Although these high school girls from the same New Jersey town have diverse backgrounds, coming from different socioeconomic, cultural and family groups, their struggles have themes familiar to many adolescents in today’s world. Much of the focus is on boyfriend relationships, including dealing with sexuality decisions, couple physical abuse and breakups. School, music, part-time jobs and family problems consume the young girls who face a multitude of difficult decisions. Many other people, connected to these four adolescent girls, are included in this drama-filled novel. One of the most difficult portrayals in the novel is the drug-using mother whose boyfriend has sexually assaulted one of the adolescent girls, causing pregnancy. Her “keeping the secret” leads to ongoing dilemmas.

There are many dramatic moments, both joyful and somber, in Laura Francois’ young adult fictional work, Chasing Ghosts: A Reckless Perfection Novel. Ms. Francois’ writing style, with just the right amount of narration and description, creates an interesting, easy-to-read story. The plot holds the interest of the reader throughout the book with many twists and turns – not unlike the lives of modern-day adolescents. The reader will not predict the unforeseen ending. The plot is strong and engaging. The book will certainly be enjoyed by thoughtful older adolescents and young adults.

Chasing Ghosts by Laura Francois is a story that revolves around four girls in their teenage years, the struggles and triumphs they face as they go through high school life. Mercedez already experienced domestic violence at a young age. Julia is experiencing a dilemma between her need to keep her boyfriend happy and keeping her vow to God to stay pure until marriage. There is Amanda, who will do anything to excel in school and belong to the popular group, even at the expense of her brother. Then there is Angela who had the most drama of them all. Faced with problems regarding relationships, family, school, wanting to belong, and all the difficulties of being a teenager, these four girls must find in themselves and their friends the strength to get through anything.

Chasing Ghosts started a little slowly for me, but gained traction as the story progressed. The four girls are relatable characters, especially to readers who are in the same age range as them. The supporting characters, like their families, enhanced the flavor of the story and added a little comedy and drama to it. I liked Troy’s character especially; other than being Amanda’s brother, he was involved and helped most of the other girls. He was funny, smart and witty all throughout the book. Laura Francois wrote the story in a way that was engaging and interesting, so I could really tune in to what will happen to these girls’ lives, their struggles and everything. I am not sure this book is part of a series, but I hope that it is because I wanted to know more. It feels like their stories aren’t finished just yet.