Can I Stray

LoveReading Says

Following a young woman from her first relationship as a vulnerable 14-year-old, through its traumatic aftermath, to her eventual discovery of self-worth, Jenna Adams’ heart-rending Can I Stray is sure to provoke a strong emotional response.

Told in three acts covering its protagonists’ situations in 2010, 2014 and 2018, we first meet Brooke as a quiet 14-year-old. She’s been cast as Juliet in a local production, playing opposite 18-year-old Matt. When Brooke falls for her apparent real-life Romeo, it turns out the feeling is mutual.

But, knowing the outside world would think their relationship inappropriate - to say the least - Matt urges Brooke to keep it secret, just like Romeo and Juliet were compelled to. Then, one fateful night, things go too far.

Brooke’s voice, thought-processes and spiral to self-harm are exactingly evoked – her low self-esteem and youthful naïveté are painfully palpable, not least when she grasps the illegality of Matt’s actions. Four years on, the damage still runs deep. Brooke makes a rash journey; she’s consumed by guilt and worthlessness; all her relationships are co-dependent.

But, in time, Brooke finds folk who don’t take advantage of her vulnerability and, little by little, learns to navigate a new life of self-love.

Reviewed by Joanne Owen
Joanne Owen’s lifelong love of reading and writing began when she was growing up in Pembrokeshire, and very much wished that witches (and Mrs Pepperpot) were real.
More reviews by Joanne Owen

About Can I Stray

Fourteen-year-old Brooke Tyler has spent her whole life waiting for a boy to choose her. Matt is about to go to university, scared to leave behind everything he knows. When both are cast as romantic leads in Romeo and Juliet, they fulfil the roles of forbidden lovers both on and off the stage. Brooke is sure that her fairy tale is coming true - and best of all, Matt is older.

Read the full description

Find This Book In