How to Win at High School by Owen Matthews

Adam Higgs is a loser, and he knows it. However, he's hardly the kind of guy who doesn't fight back, so when he finds himself at a new school, knowing nobody and surrounded by people better off than he is, he decides to take matters into his own hands. There are plenty of ways for a guy to increase his social rank and earn a little extra cash on the side if he is creative. It starts with a small business writing class papers that quickly turns into a bigger operation. Whatever the kids want, Adam can get for them, and that includes everything from good grades to drugs. Everyone knows him. Everyone loves Adam. But Adam isn't satisfied with what he's done, and he may be going too far, pushing aside the people who care about him for the status he craves.

Adam is driven, ambitious, and determined, but he doesn't understand when he's going to far. He either misses or ignores the risks in what he's going and is too caught up with his own plans to notice others. While he does care about his family and wants to spend time with them, his illegal ventures get in the way, and he doesn't want to have to choose, a classic but satisfying moral dilemma.

I really enjoyed How to Win at High School! It's been a while since I read a gritty contemporary like this, and I found it refreshing. For one, the plot was exciting and fast-paced. I also thought the story had entertaining, realistic dialogue and a spot-on teen voice. It's easy to imagine a character like Adam and to relate to him and his desire for success, which was enjoyable. All in all, this stand-alone kept me hooked, and I would recommend it to anyone looking for something new! 5/5 stars.

#crimeandmystery #friendship