Heretics Anonymous by Katie Henry

Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books
Publication Date: August 7, 2018
Genres: Young Adult Fiction
Amazon / Goodreads / Barnes & Noble / Google Books 

Book Review

Heretic’s Anonymous was one of my favorite books of 2018. As a former Catholic school girl, the premise immediately appealed to me and it definitely did not disappoint.

The story follows Michael, a self-proclaimed atheist, who is forced to go to St Clare’s, a strict, traditional Catholic school, when his family moves to a new town. After watching fellow classmate Lucy challenge a teacher in class, the two become unlikely friends. Recognizing Michael as a kindred spirit, Lucy invites Michael to join Heretic’s Anonymous, a secret society of St. Clare’s outcasts who accept each others views that contradict the school’s doctrine. Michael encourages the group to expose the schools hypocrises, but takes one mission too far, putting himself and the other heretics in jeopardy.

I loved this story. I read it in one sitting, while waiting for a delayed flight, and I couldn’t get enough. It ended far too quickly for my liking. I loved Michael’s unique and brazen voice, especially complimented by Lucy’s strong, yet questioning faith. Lucy wants to be a priest, but as a woman that’s not an option for her. It has the best feminist edge to it without being obnoxious or preachy.

The underlying message of acceptance and community really spoke to me. The heretics look out for each other and protect each other from the scrutiny and judgement of their other classmates. I loved their group and the message of the it sent, that everyone had a place in their school.