Book Review: "Hot" by Laura L. Smith

Lindsey is gorgeous and dresses like a model, but inside she feels alone. She feels as though no one truly understands her—until she meets Noah. Noah possesses a calm self-confidence that Lindsey craves. But what price will she pay to escape to the comfort of Noah’s soft words and strong arms?

Drawn into a world where fashion, boys, and popularity rule, will Lindsey discover what truly matters before it’s too late?

This book is probably the best Christian based novel that tackles the ever touchy (har har) topic of teen sex. I'm always wary of these types of books because they always end up the same way. Same story, same outcome, same message throughout. Half the problem is that the author doesn't seem to understand how teens think and act, so the characters come off either too adult, too naive or just not cool. However this book is totally different from all the rest of them and I was more than pleasantly surprised when I finished reading.

First off, it did not fall into the oh so predictable stereotype of having the girl get pregnant, especially after the first time. I am so tired of reading about the Christian girl who is so naive and does it once, and then immediately finds herself pregnant. While I am sure that it happens quite a bit, I don't think it happens EVERY SINGLE TIME. In fact, it was refreshing to read about a girl who had sex, and enjoyed it albeit with a slightly guilty conscience. Because, while parents don't want their kids to be having sex, there are teens, even Christian teens that are doing it because they enjoy it. Why not hear from that point of view?

Second, Lindsey is not some naive, dumb blond. She knows what's going on in her relationship. While she may question Noah's complete stance, she is completely aware of her situation. She made the decisions herself and knew the risks and complications that might happen from them. Even with her final decision, she made it on her own. Such a refresher from other books where the girl tells everyone her problems.

Third, for a Christian book, it's rather kinda "hot" in describing what Lindsey and Noah do and how they feel. Some readers might feel a blush come on their cheeks while reading, but if you've read any general market YA, this is just a tamer version of what goes on in real life. Very realistic and gives the true nature of the feelings of the characters.

Fourth, Noah is a Mighty Ducks fan. And they watched all three movies. That's just major props in my book!

Due to the slightly mature subject matter, I would recommend this book for older teens. It's perfect though for those who are Christian and those who aren't. Smith writes this book in the exact way I felt a teenage girl would think and speak. Lindsey remains realistic throughout the entire book. I could relate to her feelings and I'm sure there will be teen girls who will be able to do so as well. The only qualm I had was that I felt the book ended rather abruptly. The reader is not sure what is going to happen after Lindsey tells Noah how she feels. Then again I can understand this because neither does Lindsey. Overall, I really enjoyed reading this book. It's a short read (less than 180 pages) but it packs a deep message throughout. Any teen girl would get a lot out of this book. HIGHLY recommended.

Hot by Laura L. Smith is published by NavPress (2010)

This review copy was provided by the publisher