A review by georgiasbookescapes
The Luis Ortega Survival Club by Sonora Reyes

challenging dark emotional hopeful inspiring reflective sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

Ariana Ruiz wants to be noticed in a positive way. She’s largely gone unnoticed due to her selective mutism as an autistic person despite her bold fashion. So when popular boy Luis pays attention, Ari finally feels seen. But quickly Luis’s attention turns wrong at a party where he takes advantage of her. Before she can decide how she feels the school rumours start flying, likely thanks to Luis’s ex-girlfriend Shawni bringing even more unwanted attention. When Ari finds a mysterious note in her locker that leads to a group of students determined to expose Luis for his predatory behaviours and actions. As time progresses friendships blossom and feelings develop for the last girl she expects. 

This book was incredible as expected by Reyes! Although once again much heavier than I initially anticipated for a YA. Which I’m beginning to feel is a theme with me and I don’t seem to have memory of the heavy topic books I’m sure I read whilst in the actual YA age brackets??? Nonetheless, this book is sweetly done despite the heavy topic of sexual assaults. The way the friendships and romance blossomed was heartwarming, the representation was much and the impact was superb. If only justice was this easy every time!