Déjà Vu by Angela Grey is a psychological drama that follows Ivy Lancaster, a girl preparing for her high school graduation. Although she should be in good spirits, the recent death of her schoolmate Amber and a flash of déjà vu related to the incident lead her to believe that Mr. Donaho, the school’s biology teacher, is the killer. Ivy is convinced that the man the police have in custody is innocent, causing her mind to spiral out of control. She experiences sudden bouts of mania, goes on unplanned trips, makes impulsive purchases, and is diagnosed with bipolar disorder. After starting medication, her health begins to improve, and she develops a connection with her new workmate, Drake, who has anxiety. When the police announce that the man they arrested is not Amber’s killer, Ivy decides to conduct her own investigation, but soon realizes that Mr. Donaho has been stalking her and her life may be in danger.

Déjà Vu is a captivating read with an intriguing and memorable storyline. It is both entertaining and suspenseful, while also addressing important issues related to mental health. Angela Grey skillfully captures the struggles faced by individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Her portrayal of Ivy is immersive, allowing readers to feel her fear and the sudden changes in her emotions. What makes the narrative engaging is the uncertainty surrounding Ivy’s accusation of Mr. Donaho—whether this is grounded in reality or a manifestation of her mental health challenges—which adds a layer of mystery to the story. The author also includes commentary on bipolar disorder and anxiety, discussing symptoms, triggers, medication, side effects, therapy, and the stigma surrounding mental health conditions. I particularly loved the ending, which was unpredictable with a shocking plot twist. Overall, this is an outstanding read, and I recommend it to anyone interested in young adult dramas that tackle mental health topics.

Déjà Vu by Angela Grey is a psychological thriller that takes an intimate look inside mental illness from the perspective of a young woman and her ongoing battle with bipolar disorder. When Ivy begins having nightmares and vivid flashes about the murder of one of her classmates, as well as events she is certain have not occurred yet, her father is convinced it is just a simple case of déjà vu. However, the realism of her memories and insights convinces her that it is the truth and that she knows who the murderer actually is, a teacher from her former school. As Ivy’s life begins to spiral with eating issues, self-harm, and insomnia, she is confined in the psychiatric ward of the local hospital, where she desperately searches for a human connection, which she finds in another young patient, Drake. Seeking release from her mind’s prison, discovering the truth of her classmate’s murder, and ultimately a life of “normalcy” become Ivy’s motivating factors, but it will also lead her down a road full of danger, betrayal, and difficult realities.

Déjà Vu will appeal to its target audience of young adults, as well as to parents and caregivers everywhere. In this world where we seem to have a generation of young people lost and uncertain about their place in society and their future, mental illness in all its varied guises is experiencing a massive upswing. What author Angela Grey does so well is present us with believable, real characters who people will be able to identify with. To most, Ivy does seem a well-adjusted young woman, but underneath her façade is someone struggling with issues that ultimately lead her into psychiatric care. I particularly appreciated how the author explained not only the symptoms Ivy and Drake experienced but also the options for treatment and care. What I took away from this story was that mental illness is no respecter of wealth, class, ethnicity, gender, or intelligence. It can strike any of us or anyone we love, and it behooves us to understand, empathize, and care for those afflicted by it. What makes this book special is that, besides the intensive look at mental illness, the author seamlessly weaves a taut, psychological thriller into the narrative, which will keep readers guessing and ultimately surprised. The amalgam of education and entertainment lifts this story above its competitors in its genre. I highly recommend this read.