And Other Mistakes

By: Erika Turner

Narrated by: Danielle B

A teenage girl deals with insecurities, a stressful family life, tension with friends, and being on the cross-country team, in this inspiring YA story about accepting oneself, flaws and all.

For most of her life, Aaliyah's home situation hasn't been great, but she's at least had her childhood best friend and role as a cross-country star to balance it out. But once she got outed by a church elder last spring, everything came undone—including Aaliyah.

Now senior year is about to start and she is determined to come back faster and wiser. No more letting other people define her. No more losing herself to their expectations.

Except . . . well, with new friends, old flames, nosy school counselors, and teammates who don't trust her yet, the route already feels rough. And what's with the new girl, Tessa, who gives Aaliyah butterflies every time she looks at her? Regardless, she'll be fine. Because this is the year to prove to everyone—and most of all, herself—that she's more than her mistake

©2023 Erika Turner (P)2023 Spotify Audiobooks

Beautiful debut novel!

Erika Turner does a tremendous job building out the world of a 17 year old at the precipice of adolescence and emerging adulthood. The storyline is captivating and left me anchored in the reminder that true growth and meaningful connection come from vulnerability. And even when our microcosms feel like they’re caving in, what matters most will stay standing. So grateful that these lessons are intertwined with such inclusive characters that you can’t help but love!