Superior writing propels this engrossing story forward as high-school junior Rafa just can’t tear himself way from his no-good, gorgeous girlfriend. Rafa comes from a poor Latino family that is struggling to rise in the world. He has a chance to get a wrestling scholarship for college if he keeps up his practice. Monique captivates Rafa, however, and once he wins her away from an abusive boyfriend, he finds himself abandoning his values of hard work because Monique disapproves. He knows she’s not good for him but can’t stay away. Although she’s not writing suspense, Lynch maintains reader interest with her spot-on, realistic characterizations, and her insight into Rafa’s and Monique’s different families rounds out the story. Teen readers may spot the irony in the juxtaposition of Monique’s seemingly wealthy family against Rafa’s, which is rich in love. Who really is poor? Some sexual situations occur, but Rafa’s choices and growing control over his life dominate this absorbing, realistic effort. Outstanding for all teens as well as an attractive subject for reluctant readers. (Fiction. YA)
