Not My Fault

by S.B. Frasca

"Not My Fault" is popping up at home, in the park, even at school. At first, it's a secret way for Hy to deal with being bullied, but the protest art becomes addictive and morphs into a massive, creative project in defense of other social injustices.
Hy's own social circle is more like an adult-sized square with Mr. Sanchez, Mom, Mr. Fadikar, and Gram at the corners while Hy stands alone in the middle. But a chance encounter in the park with an exotic eleventh-grader named Belinda is about to change the shape of everything. Buzzing with newfound confidence at school, Hy is again targeted by Jordan- this time with an outcome nobody would believe. When Belinda gets pregnant, Hy has to navigate more uncharted territory and add to some already messy feelings of lust, loss, and friendship.
So this former tenth-grade loser is about to soar into the art world with spray cans blazing… right? Maybe, but getting kicked out of school wasn't part of the plan. Fortunately, Hy gets some help from an unlikely a dad who, until now, has never been in the picture thanks to Mom's big secret.
"Not My Fault" is for anyone- from current teenager to one still at heart- who's ever felt lonely, other, unsure, or simply undiscovered. Readers will relate to, root for, and ultimately cheer for Hy.

Genres: Young Adult, Fiction

259 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 1, 2023

About the author

A multi-platinum, award-winning songwriter and novelist, Sabelle admits the most rewarding part of her career has been commiserating with young hearts to shape raw, relatable emotions into things you can sing at the top of your lungs. She knows what it means to have a voice in the silence, an outlet for the angst. She also knows it helps to keep a fuzzy hat handy for when you’re taking yourself too seriously.
Raised in the visual art world, 'Not my Fault' is her first novel.

Reviews

[Reader Views · Rating 5 out of 5]

For tenth grader Hy, his days consist of evading bullies, eating his feelings, and trying not to be the reason for the sadness in his single mother’s eyes. Despite this somber reality, he finds moments of joy through creating art. The phrase “not my fault” has him particularly charged up and inspired, thinking it perfectly embodies the plight of being a misfit. Hy begins anonymously sharing this message throughout his school and community by carving it into furniture and creating flyers, causing people to take notice. In addition to his newfound inspiration, Hy’s self-esteem is lifted when he meets Belinda, a well-to-do older girl from his neighborhood.

Hy is used to being a wallflower, but this new confidence changes everything. People start to take notice. He begins to form friendships and navigate exciting, albeit confusing romantic encounters, and the not-my-fault message is becoming a viral sensation. Still, problems arise when he gets kicked out of school. All he wanted was to spread some positivity, not for his academic life to be in jeopardy. Follow Hy as he treads the uncharted waters of friendship, grief, and social politics in this immersive book for teens.

“Not My Fault” by SB Frasca caught me off guard; I didn’t expect to be so profoundly impacted by a novel geared towards a younger audience. The common themes of a young adult book, such as coming-of-age, friendship, and identity, were sprinkled throughout. Still, more than that, I was impressed by how the author illustrated that youth can be a catalyst for change in recognizing and taking on social injustices. Hy’s courageous art movement delivered a strong message about acceptance and inclusivity, so much so that I felt inspired to seek ways to enact positive change within my community.

Hy transformed before my eyes. His character evolution was fascinating. The author expertly highlighted the growth from the early days of wanting to disappear and fly under the radar to developing friendships and standing up to bullies. As he navigates deep feelings like empathy, loss, and understanding burgeoning physical urges, Hy’s journey is emotionally charged and age-appropriate for young readers.

The book has much to offer teens—a relatable protagonist, character diversity, and the power of believing in yourself. If you’re a young reader, or a reader of any age for that matter, who loves to root for the underdog, this book is for you!

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

In "Not My Fault" by S.B. Frasca, readers are introduced to the captivating world of Hy, a high school student who grapples with invisibility in a world teeming with personalities. The book opens with Hy's artistry, carving the Latin phrase "Non mea culpa" into a desk at the library. Hy's unique voice and perspective immediately draw readers in, as the story unfolds with an air of mystery surrounding their identity and gender. Hy's use of "Hy" as a shortened, friendlier version of their birth name is a clever attempt to navigate a world where they often feel overlooked. There is no specification of gender hence adds an intriguing perspective to the narrative. The author masterfully captures Hy's feelings of isolation and the desire for connection, making the character relatable and endearing. These challenges the traditional norms making it a refreshing read. Hy’s dream becomes the driving force, and “Not my Fault” is a platform for expressing personal struggles and feelings of injustice.
As the narrative progresses, the story delves into Hy's observations of their fellow students, including Ryan Malloy and the popular girl who catches his attention. These observations reveal the complexities of adolescence, where attraction, curiosity, and the longing for human connection are a central part of life. The book skillfully blends humor and introspection, allowing readers to empathize with Hy's struggles while finding moments of laughter in their witty observations. The depiction of Hy's relationship with their mother, Gram, and the librarian Mrs. Nardo adds depth to the narrative, showcasing the importance of these connections in Hy's life.
The author has created a plot that ensures readers are connected t the story as the protagonists is vulnerable to share the innermost struggles and thoughts. The exact quote said is “My life has been so unfair having to deal with a dad that abandons me and being poor and being fat and feeling ugly.” The use of art supplies as a coping mechanism is a powerful outlet for pain and a form of therapy. Nurse Mona, helps bring emotion to the story in interacting with Luna, demonstrating the humane qualities the medical field has. By taking the moment to acknowledge the character’s feelings, Mona reminds us why human connection matters most when we need someone to hear us.
In the thrilling conclusion of "Not My Fault" by S.B. Frasca, readers are taken on a rollercoaster ride as Hy's artistry takes center stage. With their own curated art show just around the corner, the anticipation is palpable, and Hy can hardly believe that this moment has arrived. The excitement is further enhanced by Hy's choice of outfit, which is both stylish and unique, reflecting their evolving sense of self. The camaraderie between Hy, Belinda, and Manny adds a touch of magic to the moment, as they embark on this journey together. The bond between these characters, forged through shared experiences and a common love for art, shines through as they set off for the gallery.
Although, if the characters personal stories had been explored deeply, it could have enriched the narrative and given a more profound dynamic. More nuanced backstories could have further brought the aspect of empathy and understanding and would have allowed readers to connect with the secondary characters on a more profound level and enhanced the overall impact of their interactions with Hy. "Not My Fault" is not just a story of personal growth but a celebration of art's ability to unite and inspire change, making it a compelling and heartwarming read for young adult and adult readers alike.

[Aditya · Rating 5 out of 5]

"S.B. Frasca's 'Not My Fault' dives deep into the heart of adolescence, capturing the tumultuous journey of Hy, a tenth-grade outsider, as he navigates the treacherous waters of bullying, self-discovery, and the transformative power of art. Set against a backdrop of societal injustices and personal struggles, this coming-of-age tale resonates with readers of all ages, inviting them to embrace their own uniqueness and find solace in the creative expressions that set them apart.

Hy's story begins as a tale of resilience—a young soul finding solace in protest art as a response to being bullied. The phrase "not my fault" becomes his mantra, his way of combating the world's injustices while dealing with his own pain. Frasca's portrayal of Hy's evolution is both poignant and realistic, as the protagonist transforms from a self-described "loser" into an empowered young artist who uses his creativity to bring about change.

The novel is masterfully woven with themes of friendship, identity, grief, and the complexities of teenage emotions. The interactions between Hy and the enigmatic Belinda add depth and complexity to his character, propelling him into unfamiliar territory that forces him to confront his own desires, vulnerabilities, and the challenges of young romance. As the narrative unfolds, Hy's experiences highlight the profound impact that genuine connections and unexpected friendships can have on personal growth and self-acceptance. Frasca's narrative skillfully highlights the power of art as a medium of communication and protest. Hy's anonymous art movement, marked by the phrase "not my fault," becomes a unifying message that resonates with individuals facing their own struggles. The story eloquently captures the essence of self-expression and the ways in which it can amplify voices that might otherwise be silenced.

With themes that transcend age and resonate deeply with readers, 'Not My Fault' is a testament to the importance of embracing individuality, standing up against injustice, and seeking connection even in the face of adversity. The emotional depth of Hy's journey, paired with the relatability of his experiences, make this novel a compelling read for teens and adults alike. Frasca's ability to explore complex emotions and societal challenges through the lens of a relatable protagonist is a triumph, leaving readers cheering for Hy's growth, resilience, and the transformative power of art." Much gratitude to the author for writing such a great book for us, readers.

Thank you
Happy Reading

[Manik and Sayee |favbookshelf · Rating 4 out of 5]

Set in a small American town, this contemporary novel delves into the life of Hy Murphy, a teenage girl whose life unfolds after she decides to voice something through her art. The story progresses as she explores her own identity and learns to live confidently in her skin. It is a beautiful story dealing with significant themes of self-discovery, discrimination, self-expression, individuality, and family.

The story's resonance with young readers is undeniable, thanks to its relatable protagonist and the use of simple language intertwined with urban slang commonly embraced by today's generation. The plot beautifully conveys the message that even when you feel as if the universe is conspiring against you and your sole companion is the relentless gray cloud of loneliness, taking risks and expressing your true self is the path to contentment, even if it involves the possibility of rejection. While the narrative commences on a somber note, it gradually takes an uplifting and hopeful turn, captivating readers with its optimistic spirit. The characters, for the most part, are portrayed with a sense of positivity, creating a comforting and uplifting atmosphere throughout the book. Other characters undergo significant development, though less intensely than the protagonist, which adds depth to the essence of the book. It is the clarity in the narrative's words, the plot's structure, and the portrayal of its characters that genuinely enhances the book's beauty. Throughout the story, readers will also find moments of light humor and clever puns that endear Hy to their hearts. "Not My Fault" bravely addresses the helplessness experienced by victims of bullying and sheds light on the fact that bullies are often not marginalized in the same way. Social marginalization, loneliness, and the budding innocence of romance are additional highlights in this narrative. Employing a first-person narrative, the author skillfully takes us on a vivid exploration of the complexities of a teenager's mind. While the journey is engaging, there are occasional moments of monotony within Hy's thoughts. Nonetheless, "Not My Fault" is a four-star read, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to all readers, with a particular emphasis on teenagers who are in the midst of their own journeys of self-discovery and personal growth. SB Frasca's work is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of self-expression.

[Akanksha S · Rating 4 out of 5]

S.B. Frasca's 'Not My Fault' is a literary rollercoaster ride through the vibrant and tumultuous journey of adolescence, where art becomes a lifeline and protests become a battle cry. This book stands out like neon artwork on a city wall among a sea of coming-of-age stories.

Hy, our enigmatic protagonist, whose gender remains undefined, breathes life into every page with an unapologetically unconventional voice. Like a mosaic, the narrative pieces together Hy's life layer by layer, revealing a character who's like a delicate work of art—fragile yet remarkably resilient. Hy's exploration of the art world, guided by the cryptic mantra 'Not My Fault,' unfolds like a magnificent mural, brimming with vivid colors and raw emotions.

This novel distinguishes itself by fearlessly delving into social issues and personal struggles. Frasca fearlessly tackles bullying, discrimination, sexuality, and the messy intricacies of teenage relationships. Through Hy's eyes, we witness the relentless quest for identity, a sense of belonging, and the desire to make a difference.

The supporting characters are like brushstrokes on Hy's canvas of life. From the nurturing art teacher, Mr. Sanchez, to the unlikely friendship with Mr. Fadikar and the enigmatic Belinda, each character adds depth and richness to the story. It serves as a reminder that life is a complex interweaving of diverse experiences and people.

While the book doesn't shy away from tackling serious issues, it's peppered with humor and moments of genuine warmth. Hy's witty observations and quirky sense of humor add a refreshing layer to the narrative, making it both thought-provoking and delightfully entertaining.

"Not My Fault" transcends the boundaries of age and speaks to the universal human experience of grappling with our faults and finding the courage to confront injustices. It's a call to arms, an ode to the power of art, and a celebration of the resilience of the human spirit.

Whether you're a teenager navigating the tumultuous seas of adolescence or an adult looking to rekindle the fire of youthful rebellion, this book will leave an indelible mark on your heart. It's a literary masterpiece that demands to be read, discussed, and cherished.

[Feliz · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Not My Fault” by S.B. Frasca is a captivating exploration of the teenage experience through the eyes of the endearing protagonist, Hy. Despite the cruelty of the community Hy reveals her innermost emotions as she immerses herself into the chaos of teen hood.
Lack of father figure is an issue which affects Hy who claims he does not even care to send a shoutout on her birthday. Together with mom, they “have to pretend he doesn’t exist.” The way Hy navigates the complexities of family dynamics will resonate with young readers who may have their own questions about family relationships.
Belinda, an eleventh-grader who is on the brink of a life-altering transition due to an unplanned pregnancy, turns to be a key confidant in Hy’s predicaments. This unexpected twist places Belinda in “a whole nother league of teenager,” and her friendship with Hy deepens as they confront the challenges of growing up together. Teens will appreciate the honesty and depth of these characters' experiences.
At home, there's the classic struggle of forbidden snacks, and it's in the forbidden that Hy's relationship with the local shopkeeper, Mr. Fadikar, flourishes. Mr. Fadikar runs F Mart, where the tantalizing goodies that Mom forbids are sold. This unlikely friendship brings a kind and almost paternal figure into Hy's life, offering a unique perspective on family and connection.
Throughout the narrative, Hy's view of life is marked by a refreshing and candid outlook. Hy's perspective on the name Hy itself, on gender, and on the passing of time is laced with humor and authenticity. Readers, particularly teenagers, will appreciate this unfiltered approach to the uncertainties of growing up. The reality of life Hy acknowledges to the point it is until your feelings are hurt that you know a line has been crossed is testament she embraces “Not My Fault” motto. The phrase becomes Hy's mantra, appearing in various forms and languages throughout the story.

[Courtnee Turner · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Not My Fault, S.B. Frasca tells the story of Hy, an underprivileged sophomore student who sees the unfairness and cruelty in her community. Unlike some of the other students her age, Hy chooses to express her feelings through her artwork, adopting a “Not My Fault” tag. As she communicates her emotions through her pieces, from graffiti on a bandshell to a cover piece over hate speech, she begins to transform, morphing her physical appearance to represent her artistic tendencies. A terrible accident, unfortunate death, and a reunion with a past family member threaten her new mental and emotional image, but Hy embraces her unlikely friends and art to cope with her situation.
S.B. Frasca has written a book that covers the emotional highs and lows of every teen, whether their flaws are on the surface or covered by expensive clothes and status. Whether they’ve been the bully or the subject of ridicule, readers will sympathize with Hy and love the description of her art pieces. As the character grows, so does her art and her comfort as she reveals it. Even though the artist’s identity is unknown, the community supports Hy’s work and extends their appreciation to others on social media. Through her notoriety, Hy is humble and reflects noble qualities, even though she could sink to the level of her teenage bullies. Not My Fault is a great selection for young adults and teens who may need encouragement after they’ve been oppressed or for experienced readers who enjoy all-inclusive young adult selections.

[Stephanie Ward · Rating 4 out of 5]

'Not My Fault' is a poignant young adult contemporary novel that readers of all ages and backgrounds can relate to. I personally don't read much contemporary fiction, but the description pulled me in and I decided to give it a try - and I'm so glad that I did. I ended up really enjoying the story and I empathized deeply with Hy. Hy was a fantastic main character for the story. They are incredibly realistic and very easy to connect with right away. Hy is sensitive, smart, creative, a loving son, a loyal friend, a gifted artist, and just an all-around great person. They have their issues, like everyone else, but it just helps to round them out as a character. I loved watching Hy change and grow throughout the story. There were some rough spots and big obstacles, but there were also positive changes and life-changing situations.

The plot focuses on a few very important topics that are incredibly relevant in our society - mostly bullying, hate, identity, and being true to yourself but it also talks about family, self-esteem, friendship, love, and the power of art. The author's portrayal of these throughout the story is emotionally charged and genuinely touching. Like most people, I experienced bullying in high school, which allowed me to truly empathize with Hy and the problems they faced daily. It brought back a lot of strong feelings and memories for me and I felt my heart breaking right along with Hy's. I loved that everything worked out great for Hy, although the bigger things that happened towards the end of the book were unrealistic and mostly unbelievable. I know it's a work of fiction, but everything up until then was well-written and down-to-earth and it felt like a big departure to me. Overall, I really enjoyed this story and I recommend it to fans of the genre.

[John Kamande · Rating 5 out of 5]

What can I say about this book, Not My Fault by S B Frasca? I am in awe of it. It is an undeniably awesome read that you’ll enjoy from the start till the end. Let me say beforehand that there was no cliffhanger which is good for me. I feel that everything the writer needed to tell in the book, she did it very well. I like the way the book is easy to read and understand because she doesn’t use very difficult words. The flow of the story cannot go unmentioned. The way she weaves in different characters in her storyline makes it enriching and an enthralling page-turner. Hy is an art enthusiast who is subject to a lot of bullying from people. His name is also a reason why his peers pick on him. At some point in the book, he jokes about how his name is like a common salutation which reminds me of how Frasca has made an effort to include humor in her book. I just find myself giggling as I read the book. Hy uses his art to come up with a project called Not My Fault, derived from the Latin words non mea culpa. The intention is to make known the bullying that is happening without being identified as well as make people understand that sometimes it is not their fault when certain things happen which I thought, “What an amazing thing to do!” My takeaway from that is, it is important to stay true to yourself. The story continues to unfold in a beautiful way and that’s why I think you must indulge yourself in this book!

[Adrienne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was such a great coming-of-age/teen/high school drama piece of fiction. I thought Hy was a very cool protagonist and I loved that the author kept their gender ambiguous. You never are told if Hy is a girl or a boy and even Hy mentions feeling a bit disconnected from their body. I feel like keeping it this way made the reader connect with Hy better, because gender aside, so many people have probably had similar feelings or thoughts while in High School.

I thought the pacing of the story was great, but a part of me wondered if it is so easy going from total loner with no friends, to changing and impacting their surroundings in such a big way and having friends etc, especially because things happen fairly quickly. I guess it really does go to show how art, and in this instance Hy's use of Not My Fault in their artwork to counteract the affects of bullying and hate in the community really brought people together.

You can feel Hy's confidence bloom throughout the story and I loved how inspiration overtook them. While gender was never revealed, a lot of the way Hy talks and thinks definitely made me think girl more than boy, but none of that matters to the story. Author did a great job describing Hy's art and I feel like accurately portrayed a teens feelings and thoughts navigating high school. Hy-ly (get it) recommend.

[Kibet · Rating 5 out of 5]

A teen's tale of turmoil and triumph

S.B. Frasca's "Not My Fault," is like a literary roller coaster that throws you into the chaotic world of high school, friendship, and unexpected twists. The story revolves around Hy, your typical tenth-grade underdog whose social circle is more like a geometric shape than a circle. Picture Mr. Sanchez, Mr. Fadikar, and Gram at the corners, while Hy awkwardly stands alone in the middle. But fear not, because everything takes a wild turn when Hy crosses paths with the exotic eleventh-grader, Belinda, in the park. 
"Not My Fault" takes you through the highs and lows of teenage life. Whether you're a current teenager navigating the tumultuous waters of adolescence or someone with a heart that's forever young, this book is for you. S.B. Frasca captures the essence of feeling lonely, different, and unsure, making Hy a character that you'll relate to, root for, and ultimately cheer on. So, if you're looking for a read that's equal parts heartwarming and heartbreaking, with a dash of teenage rebellion and a sprinkle of unexpected twists, "Not My Fault" should be the next addition to your reading list. Trust me; you won't be able to put it down!

[Blue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Content warnings for Not My Fault include: profanity (swearing).
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From the outset I was interested in this and captivated enough to keep reading and find out more about Hy and her art, and family.
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I like that the story resolved in a positive way, and that it felt realistic in its ending too. I liked the characters, and the friends Hy made along the way, including the adults she made friends with too.
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While I do agree with the message the whole Not My Fault art was sending, I'm not necessarily sure I completely agree with the ways she did it, in regard to the mural on the bandshell or the carving on the library table. Though I completely agree with the coverup she did on the art room door, because it was fighting back against the homophobia and the derogatory language that was put there first. I also like that the principal apologised to Hy over not the teachers nor him stepping in and stopping the bullying.
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Ultimately there were a lot of elements that made it a really well fleshed out story, and made it a worthwhile read for me.
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Thank you to author S.B. Frasca and BookSirens for sending me an ARC copy of this book.

[Charles Magesa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very Educative and Inspiring

Not My Fault by S.B. Frasca became one of my favorite reads. The story features the life of a teenage boy who grows up without the love of a father. He faces various challenges, including bullying and discrimination by fellow students in school. Still, he chooses to use art to express his frustrations.

Hy's struggles and final triumph teach us many moral lessons, including 'follow your inspiration" and "stay true to yourself" regardless of the challenges and distractions. The story is also a great inspiration to young people that they can achieve their dreams no matter their background.

Another good lesson is that when someone is in trouble, they need someone to listen to them rather than judge them like we often do. Also, the story teaches us to be accommodating and accept diversity in society and that people don't choose to be in some circumstances.

I like the suspenseful flow and humor of the story. But most of all, I love how the main character chose peace, avoided revenge, and used art to change a negative situation positively. Not My Fault is a must-read for all young people and adults!

[Lily A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Not My Fault" is a coming-of-age story written by S.B. Frasca, an award-winning author. Frasca does not dilly dally with her plot but dives readers into the complicated world of high school, adolescence, and navigating around friendships. Hy, a tenth grader, is struggling with invisibility and prefers to stay away from social circles, basking in the quiet confines of her private life. Her desire to be seen and heard in a world bustling with different personalities is palpable and the author captures this cleverly. Her life takes an unlikely twist when she encounters Belinda, an eleventh grader, who finds herself in the middle of a far-reaching transition, and together, they embark on the journey of life.
There is something for everyone in this gem. The book covers complex but necessary subjects such as bullying and self-identity through characters that are so well-drawn that they feel like a part of us or neighbors next door. I experienced a wide range of emotions reading this story, with empathy taking center stage. As a contemporary fiction novel, I must say "Not My Fault" is a beautiful addition to its genre!

[Hannah Barry · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a stellar read. Beautiful, heart-wrenching, relatable, quirky, poignant, moving, and thrilling read. I can't say enough words!

Targeted for YA readers, I think any adults who had a tough go of it in high school will respond to this book and, frankly, find it healing. S.B. Frasca has a remarkable way of writing the high school experience with such candor and redemption. Her character's struggles are our struggles, and so the book becomes a bridge of hope and movement.

Hy, the main character, is an artsy teen with struggles and angst--all the turmoils of teendom tendril around him. His character resonated with me deeply and I was impressed by his maturity, his weirdness, and the gorgeous arc Frasca wrote for him. The tag 'not my fault' was especially enthralling and the way the book is set up keeps readers interested.

I would really love to read more from Frasca, and look forward to this story someday hitting the big screen. It had a lot of John Green vibes, which I enjoyed so deeply. I can't suggest this highly enough for YA readers of any age!

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Frasca makes her YA debut in "Not My Fault". Hy is a high school sophomore who tries their best to remain "invisible" at school, despite the constant bullying they face. Hy finds solace in the art they create and shares a particularly close relationship with their art teacher, Mr. Sanchez. Hy begins a personal art project of painting the phrase, "Not my fault," in their room, as well as in different spots in public, like the school library and the park. But soon Hy's project grows much bigger and turns into a project addressing the social injustices in their community. Told from Hy's point of view, Frasca does a wonderful job at capturing the voice of her teenage protagonist. It's been more than a decade since I graduated high school, but as a reader I still found myself able to relate to Hy and their issues. I enjoyed the fact that Hy's gender remained ambiguous throughout the novel, it added a sort of mystery to the story but at the same time removed any preconceived notions or stereotypes. An inspiring YA debut that will have readers cheering for Hy from start to finish.

[The Gabster · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was fortunate enough to win/receive this book through the Goodreads giveaway! :) (Thank you very much S.B. Frasca!)

Here is my honest review:

I was not sure what to expect going into this book, but I am extremely happy to have been given the opportunity to read this! This book was fantastic! Although I am many years out of high school, this story brought me back to the memories and emotions I experienced at that age. It was amazing how much I could relate to Hy (the main character), her experiences, and her dreams/aspirations. It felt like I was right there with her - dealing with her issues alongside her.

I really enjoyed the journey this story took me on from beginning to end. I fell in love with the characters and appreciated each one's development throughout the book.

I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a captivating and heartfelt story.

Thank you again very much S.B. Frasca for providing me with the opportunity to read this creation of yours! :)

I hope you will continue your writing journey and provide us with more incredible stories!

[Brianna · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Not My Fault” seems to follow tenth grader Hy Murphy everywhere as he deals with the day to day life of being a high school teen deemed one of the class loners. His story is one that will resonate with any reader who is currently or has previously felt like the outsider. Hy finds an outlet for the relentless bullying he suffers through art. As he begins a new journey in building on the idea of things not being his fault or that of anyone subjected to ridicule he finds himself meeting a new friend. Her influence along with the confidence that his art begins to provide lead to a series of events that feel rooted in reality and make Hy’s story all the more profound. ‘Not My Fault’ is a fantastic look inside the mind of a self conscious teen as he builds himself back up. Hy is a relatable protagonist whose internal monologues and one-liners are both witty and funny. He’ll instantly feel like a friend and you’ll be rooting for his success within the first few pages.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

NOT MY FAULT is a young adult novel following Hy as their art evolves from a medium for personal struggles to a creative protest and project addressing various social injustices in their community. Frasca captures the teenage voice from page one, matching the attitude, language/slang, and mannerisms of a teen adeptly. Her ability to do so without the dialogue or descriptions being cringe or over-the-top makes the story feel like an authentic teen perspective as Hy navigates their art’s impact, new friendships, changing family dynamics, and more. By not specifying the main character’s gender, the author allows readers of all kinds to empathize with Hy and take inspiration from their ability to use a creative outlet to make a difference. NOT MY FAULT is a genuine story of young adulthood that explores the hardships of this pivotal life stage and the impact teens can have on their communities through creative expression and advocacy.

[Reading Rowlet · Rating 4 out of 5]

A really great coming of age story! I really enjoyed this book, it's relatable to any kid who grew up as the odd one out. It was interesting to see how Hy dealt with life's ups and downs and I loved seeing his art start to get appreciated. I also enjoyed how this book dealt with issues realistically, especially how the issue with his absent father is dealt with. I was hoping to see some more interactions between Hy and his father but hopefully we'll see more in the next book ( I really hope there will be a next book!).

I highly recommend this to any teen in your life, especially the ones that feel like they don't belong. Honestly I would recommend this for anyone, it's a great story!

Thanks to BookSirens for the free ARC, I'm leaving this review voluntarily and all thoughts are my own.

[Muskan Lamba · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read "Not My Fault" by S.B. Frasca in one sitting; it had such a smooth and engaging flow. This book is a remarkable exploration of adolescence and the transformative influence of art. It appeals to both the young and the young at heart, especially those who have experienced the challenges of feeling like an outsider in a harsh world. Hy, the intriguing main character on a journey of self-discovery, resonates with readers of all ages since our inner teenager continues to influence us throughout adulthood. The supporting characters, too, add richness to the narrative. Frasca's writing skillfully captures teenage emotions and the complexities of high school life with honesty and a sense of redemption, all while infusing humor and warmth.

[Tracey Madeley · Rating 5 out of 5]

A YA novel written in the first person, this book reminds me of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time in the way it approaches a topic. It is a very intimate portrayal giving the reader Hy’s motivations and feelings. I am not sure if Hy is a boy or a girl, but it is not material to the story as friendships and relationships are the same. It is nice to see Hy making connections with people outside of school, who then become his/her support network. Whether a local journalist would get involved with what is essentially a high school matter is debatable, but it forms the catalyst for resolving the story and gives a happy ending.

This is an engaging, easy-to-read story with great insight and heart. I look forward to the next one.

[Caitlynn Akin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Both thought provoking and lighthearted at times, “Not My Fault” follows a teenage outsider (“Hy”) who uses art as her voice. Along her journey through the story, Hy gains more friends and new perspectives on the world , until she finally gains the confidence to truly voice her message aloud. So quirky that she wasn’t always relatable, Hy is still someone you will root for throughout the tale. I enjoyed getting to see these experiences through her eyes and felt the message was artistically displayed not just in Hy’s art, but in the story itself.

[Jacquie Lloyd · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book - the last half I found really engaging and I couldn't put it down.

This book is for anyone who was the odd teenager out - current or otherwise - having gone through the experience of and with Hy. The coming of age journey that Hy goes on, and how the views change as Hy Gains friends makes you feel like you are Hy - all the angst, self doubt and moments of Joy.

Thank you to Booksiren for the ARC!

[jamie · Rating 5 out of 5]

oh my gosh this book was absolutely amazing!!!
i loved seeing this character represented in a book. i sometimes saw myself in Hy, as i am the same age as her and it is also just me and my mom. i love the progression of the book and it was so easy for me to get hooked. i reccomend this book for any age as it can show you how you can achieve your dreams from whatever situation you’re in if you really try.

[Roxy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel is a masterpiece and extremely relatable for anyone who doesn't fit in.
The main character, Hy, is extremely relatable and likeable. It was well written and authentic.
This book is for anyone who ever wanted to scream 'not my fault' at the world.

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Frasca has created such a unique and memorable character in Hy - not your average teenager! This novel is like reading his diary, and Frasca has a knack for speaking authentically as a teen.

[Mimi · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 but I had to round up after I realized a lot of reviewers thought Hy was a girl and just as many thought Hy was a boy. Might go back and reread. Interesting….

[JJ · Rating 1 out of 5]

Couldn't finish. Not my thing.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hy’s voice is as distinctive as Holden Caulfield’s. He may be only human, but he’s also a true hero. What a great cast.