Boy on Hold by JD Spero – Review by Erin Clemence

Boy on HoldBoy on Hold by J.D. Spero
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Seven year old Henry Trout is outside after his bedtime one night, searching for hedgehogs. What he sees instead is something gruesome and heartbreaking- his beloved neighbour, Miss Sally, is assaulted and left for dead. When Henry’s brother, seventeen year old Tyler Trout, is arrested and charged with the crime, their mother, Marcella, and even Sally’s son, Bernie are convinced Tyler is innocent. But Tyler has been acting very strange lately, and under the bad influence of his friend, Derek, leaving the local police to cast on Tyler. But Henry knows his brother could not have done it, because he thinks he knows who did.

JD Spero’s novel, “Boy on Hold” is a heartbreaking story with relatable, empathy-inducing characters, full of suspense and intrigue. Young Henry is so innocent and charming and his relationship with his loving big brother is admirable. Marcella, as a single mother, does the best she can to protect her children and is willing to fight to keep their innocence. There is not a likable character in the bunch, and it was easy to bond with the Trout family, and root for a positive outcome.

Spero’s novel also touches on the devastating reality that is schizophrenia and mental illness. She realistically depicts a young boy struggling with the disorder, with his family watching on, neither of them recognizing the disorder for what it is, until it takes over completely and they have gone too far to turn back. Spero manages to depict mental illness in an honest and compassionate way.

The novel is told from different time periods- before and after the crime. Each chapter is labeled so it is easy to follow along with the time switches. I am normally not a fan of novels told in this way, but in “Boy on Hold” this plot style added to the suspense.

“Boy on Hold” is a unique and gripping story with realistic and relatable characters. I eagerly look forward to the second book in this series, “Boy Released”.

0 replies

Leave a Reply

Want to join the discussion?
Feel free to contribute!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *