This is a very insightful novel about the ramifications of peer pressure and how a young man deals with the aftermath of a major personal tragedy. Perhaps Will, the "villain" of the piece, could have been less stereotypical and a bit more likable, but I found Conner's journey following the tragedy to be very realistic for the most part. I particularly liked the role of music in his life and the fact that he was able to work through some of his feelings of guilt, remorse, grief, anger, etc. by creating his musical composition--"Ladder of Glass." The book will get the reader thinking about some very difficult questions. ( )

Reviewed by Sally Kruger, aka "Readingjunky" for TeensReadToo.com

Four boys. An abandoned rooftop. A gun. A game of Russian-roulette.

Connor Kaeden's life is changed forever. He and one friend are on probation. Another "friend" is in jail. His best friend is dead. What happens next?

Every one of Connor's relationships has been affected. His parents now question his every move. His younger brother won't even look at him. His older brother suddenly starts including him in his late-night escapades. His best friend's mother hugs him and tells him to visit anytime. Connor lives his days with constant reminders about what happened on that deserted rooftop, and the guilt that he should have done something to stop it.

With the help of his probation officer, Connor gets a job at a local hardware store hoping to earn the money to repay the fines and court costs his parents incurred. The work is satisfying and helps Connor with more than just money. Connor also finds relief when he resumes playing his violin. He often finds himself stopping work in the store's garden center to jot down a few bars of music that seem to express the turmoil in his mind. Basically, Connor tries to get his life back to what it once was. But is that even possible?

RICOCHET by Julie Gonzalez explores the emotional journey from tragedy to the gradual return of what might begin to pass for normal daily existence. This soul-searching, emotion-packed novel follows one young man and his family through the aftermath of one senseless act. ( )

Why would anyone put a loaded gun to their head and pull the trigger, just hoping the barrel stops on an empty chamber? What crazy person would take that chance? Connor Kaeden finds the answer is not as straightforward as it would seem. When Connor's friends play Russian Roulette and disaster results, Connor struggles to understand how the tragedy unfolded. He also struggles to cope with the end results of his choices and actions. ( )