You know those books that grip you right from the start and then make you feel like the characters could be people you want to be close to? That was this book. Mental health is such an important topic for young people to see in novels. This book delivered a definite and necessary gut punch.

Shelbi moved to Windward Academy as a senior to escape parts of her past that she doesn’t want anyone to know about. She doesn’t plan to make friends.

Andy’s family is imploding and he doesn’t know how to cope. He’s had too much to drink again and he sends a text. The text that changes the trajectory of his life.

This is now my favorite Nic Stone book. Although there was a lot of crying, the anticipation and intensity of Andy and Shelbi's friendship had me hooked enough to read this book in two days. The content was tame enough that I would give it to my middle schoolers if there wasn't so much reference to how easy it is to get alcohol and how it's an easy fix. I would rate this book 4 out of 5 stars.

So, I want to start out by saying that I received an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy for those of you new to the term) of Chaos Theory by Nic Stone through NetGalley. I’d like to thank the publisher, Random House Children’s, for the chance to read this before it is released in stores. I can genuinely say that I have enjoyed all of Nic Stone’s novels and Chaos Theory is no exception.

Oddly enough, this book has a lot, but still… not a lot. It’s kind of hard to describe, but I absolutely loved the representation for mental health (although, I would’ve liked a little more from Shelbi on how it impacts her life and the daily symptoms that she faces). I also really appreciated the alcoholism that Andy Walter Criddle faced. It makes these two very common problems (mental health and alcoholism, that is) relatable and able to be sympathized with, which is what any good problem novel should do. Now, back to it being a lot but not a lot: it’s a lot with its representation (a lot in a good way, obviously), but still not a lot in story. It’s very simplistic, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing.

Now, to get to the actual story itself: this is 100% a romance novel. A cutesy, mostly wholesome teenage romance that I fell in love with. Those “new” love feelings are so precious and Nic Stone encapsulated them perfectly. Shelbi and Walter had so much chemistry that I probably smiled like an idiot in public while reading this book. It’s the mundanity of this novel that makes it so relatable. First loves. Heartbreak. Trauma. So much that goes into forming a person and making a life. I really enjoyed it, and Nic Stone’s unique writing style made it great.

With her writing style, you see a lot of modernization on the page. I want to remind everyone that I read an ARC, so not everything I read is necessarily in the novel the way that I read it. However, the text formatting, the emojis, the use of language as it would literally be used by teens, all of it put together in this novel made it firmly situated in its YA genre. You were never guessing whether or not this novel should be YA or New Adult (still not sure if this is even a thing?) or General Adult. Stone knows her audience and it shows. So, if you like YA, highly highly recommend picking this book up.

Overall, Shelbi and Walter’s journey through navigating their own problems and becoming friends was just the lighthearted romance that I needed in my life. Sometimes, when you have a million and one different things going on around you, all you need is to pick up a good book and get thoroughly and invigoratingly lost in it. Chaos Theory helped me to lose myself, and when I finished it? It reminded me of all of the instances in my young adult life that made me me.

**My review for this novel is scheduled to be posted on my website and Goodreads on February 23rd at noon.

Content warnings (please note I may have missed some): suicidal ideation, toxic friendships and family members, alcoholism, depression, abortion, child death, grief

This is a love story between two recent high school graduates: Shelbi, who didn’t bother making friends at her new school due to past bad experiences and transferring so late into her high school career, and Andy, a politician’s son struggling with his past and alcoholism.

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: I love smart girls! And the fact that Shelbi skipped a grade and graduated high school at sixteen all while dealing with “neurotransmittal atypicality” (as the author puts it) just like me is so special.

The main characters were so lovable and three-dimensional. Their story was so interesting and my only complaint is I wish certain things were explored more.

Thank you Netgalley and Random House Children’s Books for a free digital review copy. (I actually shouted when I saw I was approved!)

The book opens with a letter from the author, serving as a sort of content warning to acknowledge this book contains hard things. Specifically, it contains characters with brains that function differently than they are “supposed” to and while this is a work of fiction, Nic Stone says “It is me at my rawest and most vulnerable, truly.”

Honestly, anyone that knows me knows I’m a Nic Stone fan (the author and the person), but this my might now be my favorite of all her books. I did not want to put it down. I finished in 2 days, which is unusual for this slow reader. That being said, it does not shy away from difficult topics, but it handles them with care and in a way that feels real. I was so invested in these characters and ultimately I was left feeling hopeful.

I know these characters will stick with me for quite some time and will resonate with many teens and adults alike.

CW: mental disorders, alcoholism, depression, bullying (off-the-page), and self-harm

I love the way Nic Stone approaches her books especially her characters. Shelbi and Andy (Walter) like all her other characters feel like real people to me. Thats an impressive thing for a writer to do! I didn't end up giving this a full 5 stars because I struggle with 3rd person perspective. So not a book thing-- a me thing.

Nic Stone has created an amazing book here that everyone needs to read. It shows us that mental health is a thing that needs to be just as important as physical health.
Andy and Shelbi, I loved watching their relationship grow and change and how they helped each other.
I loved this book. I suffer from depression and know how I can get in my own head and how hard that is. My father had bipolar depression and as I have learned more about it, it helps me understand who he was.
Shelbi deals with so so much and I feel for her and I also now understand more about what happens in the head of someone who suffers from this. Stone writes it so well! Thank you Stone for showing us this side of mental health. We need to see more like this and help support more people who suffer with mental health.
The writing in this book is also so real and spectacular. I had a hard time putting it down.
A quote that really stayed with me " People aren't put on this Earth to meet your expectations." This is so true and is helping me see the world a different way.
Thank you Nic Stone for releasing this book into the world.

Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC!

Absolutely amazing book! I read it in one sitting-could not put it down! This might be my favorite...after Dear Martin.

I absolutely loved this book, the characters, and everything in between. I loved the vulnerability of the author and the characters in this book. I loved how accurate the portrayal of mental health is in this story and the fact that the author has personal experience just made it that much deeper. The book was more than just characters, theme, and excellent writing, it was personal, raw, and left me thinking about it long after I was done reading it.

This is the first book by this author I have read but it definitely won’t be the last as her writing is captivating and the way she unfolds a story is truly enchanting! I think I read that she doesn’t write a lot of romance but I hope that is a myth because she is excellent at it.

Chaos Theory by Nic Stone is a phenomenal book! It's easily one of my favorite reads of this year and definitely my favorite of Nic Stone's books. Her letter to the reader at the end of the book was especially moving and I appreciate and applaud her honesty and passion regarding mental health.

My favorite parts of Chaos Theory are the fantastic characters. Shelbi and her supportive family and Andy (Walter) and his dysfunctional one are relatable. nuanced characters with a ton of heart and soul. I really liked Shelbi's personality. She's super smart but also funny and she feels so deeply all of the things. I immediately wanted to be her friend and tell anyone who would hurt her off! I think her relationship with her family is wonderful because, even when they disagree you can FEEL the love and trust between them. It's beautiful and makes it such a stark contrast to when her brain is telling her that she's unloved or unwanted. Powerful stuff.
Andy has almost the opposite situation with his poor choices overshadowing his sweet demeanor and friendly personality. His mom is the worst and his dad doesn't seem much better. As someone who has struggled with alcohol, I can sympathize with his desire to numb the pain from his family's tragedy. He is caught in a vicious cycle and it's heart wrenching that he feels like there's no-one he can turn to for help. I love the way their friendship starts slowly and tentatively but grows stronger with each obstacle they face. It's a beautiful story of finding someone who really "gets" you.

I think the author did such a good job of showing how difficult mental health and addiction is to manage on a day to day basis. She doesn't shy away from hard topics in this book but instead gently shows them in all of their raw, ugly detail. The hope imbued in every page of this book was really moving and it made me cry so many times. I'm buying a physical copy for myself as soon as it's released.

Thank you to Nic Stone and Netgalley for an ARC of this book for my honest review.

Let me just preface this review by saying, I read this in 3 hours.
Once I started reading this book, I was not able to put it down! I love the dynamic between the two main characters. While this story touches on several topics that may be triggering, I loved every second of watching this novel unfold! I am so ready for this to go to print so that I can add it to my bookshelf!

I read this book in less than 24 hours. I’m a mom with a toddler, so that should tell you how absolutely wonderful this book is! It’s sweetly romantic and made me nostalgic for being young and in love.

Shelli and Walter are both incredibly intelligent graduating high school seniors and headed to prestigious universities. They both struggle with mental illness (Shelli- bipolar disorder and Walter- alcoholism). Their friendship and subsequent romance helps each other set boundaries and encourages them to take care of their mental health.

Be sure to keep on reading after the author’s note at the end!

Content warnings: mental illness, abortion, death of child, miscarriages, alcohol abuse

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.

An episode for Books Are Magical featuring this novel will be released on the book’s birthday.

Oh wow! My heart!
Chaos Theory is full of emotion. It’s powerful, real, and raw. I felt everything.

Shelbi and Walter have the most amazing dynamic. Both are working through some difficult things. Both are the light the other needs, and watching their journey is beautiful. The way they meet, the way their friendship blossoms, the way they let each other in. The ups, the downs, the heartbreak, the laughter. This story is a kaleidoscope of feelings. It’s forgiveness, understanding, acceptance, healing, and second chances. It has so much packed into it and you feel it all. Nic Stone portrays intricately how people relate and react to their surroundings and the things they are going through. The writing is simply beautiful.

Chaos Theory is a beautiful, emotional, heartfelt story that leaves your heart with a smile.

Nic Stone does such a realistic depiction of mental illness and addiction in Chaos Theory. The two main characters, Shelbi and Andy was dealing their own stuff. Shelbi is new at school and has been struggling with bipolar disorder. Andy is using alcohol to cope with his grief. The two of them quickly have a connection after bonding over their struggles and become friends. Even though there is some romance between the two of them, it's not the main plot of the novel. This is definitely not one of those books where falling in love fixes all of the problems they have going on. It's much more realistic than that. This is the first book by Nic Stone that I've read and now I'm looking forward to reading through her back catalog!

Shelbi is starting at a new school for her senior year, so she figures there's not a lot of point in getting attached to anyone. After all, in a year, they're all going to go their separate ways. The less they know about her, the better. On the other side, Andy Criddle has seen better days. He's wasted. Again. And things are about to get really bad for him. Perhaps even something that he can't come back from.

When Shelbi ends up helping Andy as he's on the brink of devastation, the two quickly form a bond. She knows what it's like to hit rock bottom, and just wants to help. But as the two start to get closer, their past threatens to break them apart. Will their newfound connection be able to adapt? Or will their histories ending up pulling them apart?

Thanks to NetGalley and Random House Children's for an advanced copy of Chaos Theory by Nic Stone to review! Of course, Nic Stone is always on my to-read list when she has a new book coming out, and I think this one might be one of her best ones yet.

One of the ways the story is told in this book is through text exchanges between Shelbi and Andy. They both have impeccable chemistry, even from the first time they interact. They're both dealing with heavy stuff, Andy with alcoholism and grief, Shelbi with bipolar disorder, and they find solace in each other. This entire book speaks to prioritizing mental health, and getting help when you need it. We honestly need more books like this one!

Outside of Shelbi and Andy, we have a well-fleshed out cast of characters. From both of their parents to their friends, you'll find a fully vibrant cast here. I especially loved Shelbi's parents; they were so supportive of her and worked to get her the help that she needed. And the way they bring Andy into the fold! Just lovely.

This is quite a heavy book, but in a way, it didn't feel that way? It's about two people finding each other in a time of need, and growing together and helping each other. It'll hit you right in the feels at a number of points, and in an entirely good way.

Overall, this is a powerful book that I hope makes it into the hands of those that need it!

Stone has done a wonderful job showing the reality of young people living with a mental illness and trauma. The romance between the two main characters as they travel life's ups and downs will connect with teens and young adults. The dialogue is modern and believable and not at all patronizing to young people, which is refreshing and greatly appreciated. Make no mistake, this is no fairy tale love story. Instead it is a realistic, sometimes somber, coming-of-age tale for the modern world.

Chaos Theory by Nic Stone is a brilliant, compassionate young adult romance story about two teenagers on the cusp of adulthood navigating what it means to fall in love while navigating mental illness and addiction struggles. I thoroughly enjoyed the way Nic Stone approached telling this story: the letter to readers at the introduction as she reminds us that mental illness is alive and well and we need to do more to combat the stigma and have honest conversations about the different ways these struggles can present; the narrative told via text between Shelby and Andy as they seek connection with each other and navigate the teenage angst of getting to know someone over time while carefully unraveling the parts of yourself you're terrified to show; the mental health ally agreements presented in the narrative and at the end of the story; and even the author's own mental health struggles shared in vulnerability in the introduction and afterword.

I am so grateful that YA writers like Nic Stone exist and use their talents to speak to the painful truths of life that we all must learn to manage and will all be touched by at some point on our journeys.

I loved that the story line was honest about the challenges mental health can present and that the story didn't end perfectly. The epilogue provided the reader with hope and a realistic picture of what it means to foster meaningful connections, even romantic ones, when we are still healing from our trauma.

Bravo! Thank you to the author and publisher for the e-arc copy!

Shelbi and Andy live in two separate worlds until a wrong number text creates a surprising bond. Both fighting their own battles, the two forge an unexpected friendship in their support of each other.

I loved the author's note about mental illness, and the topics in the book were handled with care. I also liked the character development and growth. I think the short length and important topics will be of high interest to students.

Let me begin by saying I’ve never been more excited to receive an ARC, yet my review will remain unbiased.

Nic Stone earned ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ stars before I read the first line of the book. The transparency of her author’s note (I never read those, but read this one) and content warning was so endearing and a testament to who I imagine she is in her everyday life. Yes, she wants you to read her work but the reality of her acknowledging and ensuring you know this may be a mirror riddled with triggers was so-selfless.

After swooning for a few moments, and taking the time to send a few “omg, I got it…you need to preorder this…the content warning was OMG” messages I dove head first into Shelbi and Walter (can I call him that or will I get some random email that says “Andy to you”). I always love Stone’s use of text messages in her books - puts you fully in your YA mind and becomes a subtle reminder that in this day and age that is the bulk of many peoples communication style. The characters were amazing, fully developed, with tons of Life happening. They’ve been through a lot, we’re going through a lot and survived A LOT. More of a mirror than I wanted at times but absolutely what I needed to remind me that we’re all TRYING. Mental health status not factored in, the world is a place of “chaos theory” requiring that we adjust and cope with the unexpected - now add in some chemical imbalances and it’s a whole other balancing act. Nic Stone touched on so much - interracial relationships, class, hiding from your past, perception versus reality, woman’s rights, grief, death, consequences. Sometimes it was overt, other times it was so subtle- yet through it all I was forced to think and reminisce. I’ll be preordering my hardback copy and I’d absolutely love a sequel to this. There’s so much of Shelbi’s growth I still need to witness…how does she take her awareness until the terrifying “adult world”? Admittedly this desire is both bookish rooted and the realization that I learned from this book…*looks at my ice pack* I think need to purchase an extra one.

What an inspirational opening! This heart wrenching, honest letter of Nic Stone hooked up me to this book unconditionally.
First of all: the best thing about this book is characterization!

Oh Shelbi! She’s getting through a lot at young age, suffering from bipolar, trying to adjust her life in school by avoiding to get close with anyone else!

She’s burned before by opening her heart, sharing her mental condition. But honesty didn’t earn anything to her. She’s got bullied, humiliated, opening her eyes in the hospital. She’s quirky as hell. So smart, so passionate about science! She’s fast thinker, looking for unique aspect to the things out of ordinary. I loved her nerd brain!

I also fell in love with her parents. His mischievous, down to earth dad , her coolest urban romance author mom Shonda , her tough, protective, sarcastic cousin Beck ( who is her only friend), her sweetest, joyful bibi ( Grandma)! They are always supportive. They give Shelbi enough freedom to come out from her shell. They don’t treat her with kid gloves. They know she’s vulnerable but they don’t push her hard. They just let her know they will be always be there for her when she needs their help!

And Walter Andy Criddle! That boy earns ten thousand hugs. I hated her politician mother from the beginning ( she also earned ten thousand slap points) He lost his three years old sister. He is suffering from really bad breakup ( that’s more than breakup)! His parents are having fights day and night. Alcohol become best solution for numbing the pain which resulted with totaled car, DUI, six months of driving suspension, false texting to stranger.

That ominous night he had an accident, his patch crosses with the girl from his class. She finds his wallet and gives him a speech about self worth he mostly needed. She might be the same person he accidentally texted.

That’s how Shelbi and Walter ( a.k.a Andy) make a pact of friendship. They hold each other when one of them is about to fall. But what if they want more than friendship? Shelbi is afraid of burning again and Walter deals with so many things at the same time: grief, alcoholism, verbal abuse of his mother. How long they can hold each other’s hand when two of them are about to hit the rock bottom?

Overall: there are so many sensitive and triggering issues bravely and honestly discussed in this book including mental health, alcoholism, teen pregnancy, abortion, parental abuse, suicidal tendencies, self harm. I loved the author’s realistic approach, honesty to open up about her own mental health issues, informing us brain’s different functioning, help centers, what kind of action should be taken to help the people suffer from same mental illnesses.
It’s absolutely inspirational, thought provoking, educational reading for me earned my five blazing stars!

Special thanks to NetGalley and Random House Children’s/ Crown Books for Young Readers for sharing this amazing digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest thoughts.