On the Fence by Kasie West

My edition: eBook

First published: 2014

Pages: 304

Source: Own copy

For sixteen-year-old Charlotte Reynolds, aka Charlie, being raised by a single dad and three older brothers has its perks. She can outrun, outscore, and outwit every boy she knows—including her longtime neighbor and honorary fourth brother, Braden. But when it comes to being a girl, Charlie doesn't know the first thing about anything. So when she starts working at chichi boutique to pay off a speeding ticket, she finds herself in a strange new world of makeup, lacy skirts, and BeDazzlers. Even stranger, she's spending time with a boy who has never seen her tear it up in a pickup game. To cope with the stress of faking her way through this new reality, Charlie seeks late-night refuge in her backyard, talking out her problems with Braden by the fence that separates them. But their Fence Chats can't solve Charlie's biggest problem: she's falling for Braden. Hard. She knows what it means to go for the win, but if spilling her secret means losing him for good, the stakes just got too high.

Thoughts: Tomboy Charlie is accustomed to all things... boy. Charlie is oblivious to how 'girly-girls' act, growing up with no mother figure, three older brothers, and a brother-figure neighbour Braden. Preferring football in the mud to make-up, Charlie is forced to step out of her comfort zone when she receives a speeding ticket she can't afford. On the Fence is a journey of discovering yourself, first love and family. 

Tender and sweet, West's On the Fence was everything I hoped. Charlie was unlike any character I've read before. Always up for a challenge, competitive and carefree, I really loved the development of Charlie as a character. Similarly I loved learning about Braden and his family, and the secret 'fence talks' they participated in at night, which were so endearing. I loved how this novel wasn't rushed nor was it slow, but an even steady pace with new discoveries of characters throughout. I also loved Charlie's family life, her blunt brother, Gage, and how protective the boys were of Charlie. Everything about this novel screamed cute, even Charlie's dad who tried to understand Charlie’s 'girl issues' and problems.

On the Fence is an adorably beautiful novel about finding yourself and first loves. Since devouring this gorgeous novel, I've added all of Kasie West's books to my to read list. 

My rating: ★★★★★