Sarah welcomes author Tara Hodgson to discuss her emotional and thought-provoking young adult novel, At Least I’m Trying. This powerful coming-of-age story follows Reese, a teenage athlete whose dreams of playing college volleyball collapse in an instant, sending her on a search for identity, freedom, and belonging.

Reese has always been the perfect daughter, student, and athlete until her world begins to crumble. Enter Cassie Brentwood: bold, spontaneous, and everything Reese wishes she could be. As Reese is drawn into Cassie’s orbit, she meets Liam, a mysterious boy whose attention feels intoxicating… until it turns dangerous. With girls disappearing from nearby towns and Liam’s behavior growing increasingly dark, Reese’s new life begins to spiral into a chilling reality she never anticipated.

Through the lens of mental health, self-discovery, and resilience, At Least I’m Trying explores what it means to lose yourself—and find the strength to come back from the edge. Tara Hodgson joins Sarah for a heartfelt conversation about the pressures young people face, the power of friendship, and writing a story that shines a light on the darker corners of adolescence.

Whether you’re a fan of realistic YA fiction, psychological tension, or stories of personal growth and survival, this episode is not to be missed. Tune in to hear Tara share the inspiration behind Reese’s journey, her writing process, and the importance of honest conversations around mental health in young adult literature.


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