One Decision Away by D. M. Carney

When Young Romance Takes a Dark Turn

Have you ever stumbled upon a book that simply refuses to let you go? That’s precisely what happened when I opened D. M. Carney‘s “One Decision Away.” This captivating young adult novel had me thoroughly engrossed, following the tumultuous journey of sixteen-year-old Gabby’s life in the Bronx. One moment, she’s a promising student with a bright future, and the next… well, let’s just say things take an unexpected and troubling direction.

A Love Story with Unforeseen Consequences

Picture this scenario: Gabby is living her best life in the Bronx. She’s excelling academically, has a close-knit family, and everything seems to be looking up. Then, quite unexpectedly, Richie enters the picture, all charm and gallantry, playing the hero and sweeping Gabby off her feet. Who doesn’t appreciate a good knight-in-shining-armor moment? However, there’s a catch—Richie harbors a darker side, and before long, Gabby’s entire world begins to unravel.

Carney masterfully captures the intensity of young love. You can almost feel Gabby’s heart racing whenever Richie is near. It’s that all-consuming, pulse-quickening kind of romance that makes you forget everything else. But as the narrative unfolds, you begin to notice the warning signs that Gabby, in her infatuation, fails to see.

The Bronx: A Vivid Character in Its Own Right

The way Carney brings the Bronx to life is truly remarkable. It’s not merely a generic urban setting—you can almost smell the aroma of pizza wafting from Sal’s, hear the constant hum of traffic, and sense the underlying tension in the air. The neighborhood becomes a character in its own right, influencing the choices our characters make and the consequences they face.

A Community on the Brink

The author doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of life in this part of the city. Illicit substances, violence, and economic hardship are ever-present, lurking in the shadows of every street corner. But it’s not all bleak—there’s a genuine sense of community too. Gabby’s family, her best friend Dani, and even some of the local shopkeepers form a protective network that you can’t help but root for.

Dual Timelines: A Mother’s Quest for Answers

Here’s where things become particularly intriguing. Carney employs a clever dual timeline structure that kept me on the edge of my seat. We follow Gabby’s story unfolding in the past, and then, suddenly, we’re propelled ten years into the future, following her mother, Patty, as she seeks answers about her daughter’s untimely death.

Patty’s Pursuit of Truth

Let me tell you, Patty is not to be underestimated. The pain and determination this woman carries is palpable. You can feel it emanating from the page. As she delves deeper into the circumstances surrounding Gabby’s fate, the tension escalates dramatically. I found myself holding my breath, wondering just how far she’d go to uncover the truth.

The Blurred Lines of Morality

What’s particularly compelling about this part of the story is how it challenges your perceptions. You completely understand Patty’s motivations, but at the same time, you begin to question whether her actions are justified. Carney does an exceptional job of blurring the lines between right and wrong, making you empathize with characters even when their actions are morally ambiguous.

Characters That Feel Authentic

The characters in this novel are remarkably well-crafted. Gabby isn’t portrayed as a flawless teenager—she has her flaws, makes mistakes, and at times, you want to intervene and guide her decisions. But that’s precisely what makes her so relatable and authentic.

A Supporting Cast That Leaves an Impression

It’s not just Gabby and Patty who command attention. The supporting characters are developed in a way that makes them feel like individuals you might encounter in real life:

• Dani, Gabby’s loyal best friend, always ready with a witty remark and unwavering support
• Jason, Gabby’s brother, grappling with his own challenges while trying to protect his sister
• Aunt Dee, providing much-needed moments of levity with her candid personality
• Richie… ah, Richie. He’s a character you find yourself conflicted about, but Carney gives him enough depth that you can’t help but feel a twinge of empathy for him as well

Themes That Resonate

“One Decision Away” isn’t just an engaging read; it explores profound themes about life, love, and the consequences of our choices. Here are some of the significant themes that left a lasting impression:

The Power of Choice

The title encapsulates it perfectly. One decision can alter everything. Carney emphasizes this repeatedly, demonstrating how a single moment can create ripples through time, affecting not just the individual making the choice, but everyone in their orbit as well.

The Complexity of Love

Love isn’t always straightforward, and this book doesn’t shy away from that reality. We see how love can be both a source of strength and a potential pitfall, how it can empower you and also cloud your judgment. It’s messy, it’s complicated, and it’s incredibly authentic.

The Enduring Impact of Loss

Patty’s storyline offers a poignant exploration of grief and its aftermath. The way Carney portrays a mother’s anguish is raw and honest, at times almost overwhelming to read. But it’s also a powerful reminder of the lasting impact of loss and the various ways people cope with profound pain.

A Writing Style That Engages

Carney’s writing style deserves special mention. This isn’t dense, pretentious prose—it’s crisp, engaging, and feels like someone recounting this story to you over a cup of coffee. The dialogue is spot-on, capturing the nuances of how people actually speak, from teenage vernacular to a grieving mother’s fragmented thoughts.

Pacing That Maintains Engagement

The pacing of the novel is particularly noteworthy. Carney knows how to maintain momentum. Just when you think you’ve grasped the situation, another twist emerges that challenges your assumptions. It’s an exhilarating reading experience—you never quite know what’s coming next, but you’re thoroughly invested in finding out.

The Verdict: A Must-Read for Young Adult Fiction Enthusiasts

To put it plainly, “One Decision Away” is a remarkable achievement. If you enjoy young adult fiction with depth and complexity, this book should be at the top of your reading list. It encompasses all the hallmarks of great YA literature—first love, family dynamics, coming-of-age challenges—but with an added layer of suspense and social commentary that elevates it to something truly special.

Who Would Appreciate This Book?

• Fans of nuanced, realistic young adult fiction
• Readers who appreciate stories of family bonds and personal growth
• Those interested in narratives that tackle challenging social issues
• Anyone seeking a book that will keep them thoroughly engaged

Similar Reads to Explore

If you find yourself drawn to the themes in “One Decision Away,” you might also enjoy these books that explore similar territory:

• “The Hate U Give” by Angie Thomas
• “Long Way Down” by Jason Reynolds
• “Sadie” by Courtney Summers

Concluding Thoughts

D. M. Carney has crafted a narrative that will linger in your thoughts long after you’ve turned the final page. It serves as a poignant reminder that life isn’t always clear-cut, that good people can make poor choices, and that sometimes the distinction between justice and vengeance is more nuanced than we’d like to believe.

“One Decision Away” is more than just an engaging read—it’s a book that prompts reflection, stirs emotions, and potentially alters your perspective on the world. I highly recommend giving it a chance. Just be prepared to set aside ample time, because once you start, you’ll find it difficult to put down.