Book of the Week October 29, 2026
Sestina is the hottest pop performer of the moment; her highly personal songs capture the attention of fans who call themselves “Tinas” and flock in droves to her stadium shows. Olive, a musician herself, adores Sestina’s music, though her soulmate, Felix, simply endures it. Another concertgoer, Jeremy, does appreciate the music, but is heartbroken as his girlfriend Alma broke up with him on the way to the concert. Suddenly, a massive explosion splits the night. Prompted to write his first YA novel since The Edge of Everything by the Ariana Grande concert suicide bombing, Giles focuses not on the “why?” but on the survivors’ desperation to find loved ones, weaving in their back stories, which include divorce, transphobia, and the effects of stardom. The dialogue is pitch perfect, capturing the challenges of teen/adult communication. The book is part thriller and part love story, complete with unlikely heroes. Readers will find themselves completely immersed in this feverish tale, their hearts pounding right up ’til the final page. Write us another one, Mr. Giles.—Dodie Ownes
