5 reviews for Enough is Enough

1. 

   Rated 5 out of 5

   Micheál Lovett – January 10, 2022

   A story that reminds you of the teenager you aspired to be!!!

   Enough is Enough, the debut novel by Australian author Nola Smith, is a fine story and morality tale for young and old, with a hero that is both ordinary and extraordinary.

   For the majority of adults, we forget about the trials of our teenage years, whether it being voluntary or otherwise. Enough is Enough returns us to that time when all we were armed with was our childlike sense of a right and wrong and a burgeoning desire to find yourself, as an individual or part of a like-minded group.

   This book refreshes that space and time beautifully.

   Leroy, our main character, is beset by many challenges. As a teenager he is trying to live his life from heartbeat to heartbeat, under much emotional and psychological pressure, unsure of the next turn in his story. Each of these challenges he overcomes, with a calm indefatigable energy that is both charming, and leads you to care for him greatly.

   Through his arbitrary connection with Betty, an elderly woman, with a story that holds a looking glass to historic Australian Social inadequacies, Leroy hooks into a need to change a life (including his own), to right a wrong and is committed, with the help of Arron and Jules, to balance the scales in Betty’s favour.

   There are many themes in confluence throughout this book but Smith handles them adroitly, and with equal spacing, driving the narrative forward to an apex that is both relieving and emotional.

   Something deep swirls about in the belly of this story and that is, the oft neglected need in this modern world, to avoid distractions and do the right thing, whatever the moral consequences.

2. 

   Rated 5 out of 5

   Moyra Irving – October 23, 2021

   It was love at first sight when I encountered Nola Smith’s marvellous debut novel, ‘Enough is Enough.’
   It’s a witty and poignant story and I’m not ashamed to admit it had me laughing and crying throughout. But that’s the power of a well-told story whose characters we care about long after the book is put aside. Nola inhabits each one – from Leroy, her loveable protagonist, to his infirm but feisty friend, Betty. Even Zoe, his irritating young sister, and obnoxious stepdad are eerily real.

   This is an important coming-of-age story, one that highlights many of the difficulties young men face today, especially those like Leroy who grow up in broken, impoverished homes. Burdened with domestic responsibilities, he is often overlooked by his harassed mother.

   In contrast, we’re shown the
   value of intergenerational relationships through Leroy’s friendship with the elderly Betty and how young and old can become lifesavers for each other.

   Struggling with self-esteem, Leroy is ultimately forced to draw upon emergent reserves of courage and ingenuity as he attempts to come to her aid.

   Excellent and believable dialogue makes this a pacy read: witty, sad and scary by turns, there’s even a hint of romance towards the end. It’s perfect for all ages, as all the best books are.

   Thank you, Nola Smith, and congratulations on an outstanding first novel!

3. 

   Rated 5 out of 5

   Jenny Brodie-Hall – October 13, 2021

   Enough of what? For 14 year old Leroy it is enough of life! The weight of the world seems to be resting on his shoulders, but no one seems to care.
   Having been reluctantly uprooted from the country town of his birth and his beloved grandparents Leroy is finding life in the city and the responsibilities his single mother places on him, while she tries to find work and care for her three children, confusing and stressful.
   When an accident occurs, for which Leroy is blamed, things go from bad to worse. A chance encounter with a frail, but feisty old lady, Betty and a confident and privileged Asian boy, Aaron sees the two boys form an unlikely alliance in their efforts to help Betty solve a problem which has haunted her for years.
   In her debut novel Nola Smith has created believable and diverse characters. Readers will feel empathy with the frustration felt by Leroy, the over confidence of Aaron and the vulnerability and wisdom of Betty.There are many twists in the tale that keep the reader guessing and absorbed until the end.
   While aimed at young adult readers this is really a book which all ages will enjoy. I particularly looked forward to the end of each chapter when Leroy would send a thought message to his Nan. Teenage boys can find it hard to voice their emotions and this was a clever way for Leroy to express his innermost feelings.
   Nola Smith is to be congratulated on this novel and let’s hope that it is the first of many stories she will pen.

4. 

   Rated 5 out of 5

   Mesha Steel – July 29, 2021

   This books highlights the value and importance of human connection; something that we can take for granted all too often. The intergenerational relationship between down-and-out teenager, Leroy and lonely pensioner Betty, develops into a firm friendship where it is realised that regardless of era and age, we all need support and a friendly ear to help us through the ups and downs of life. This story is an important reminder that teenagers thrive on connection and it is lovely to watch Leroy begin to find purpose through his friendship with Betty and new friend Aaron. ‘Enough is Enough’ is a story that we can all relate to; we all know a tough-talking Leroy, a cool, teenage clown like Aaron and a sweet but strong elder like Betty. I loved reading ‘Enough is Enough’ and thought about the characters long after I finished the book. Well done Nola Smith! This story will most certainly stand the test of time!

5. 

   Rated 5 out of 5

   Jaylene Fritchley – July 22, 2021

   Loved this book! I couldn’t put it down. An authentic story about life as a teenager. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and it’s made it to the top of my Christmas shopping list.