Review of One Decision Away

Post by **Diana Lowery** » 24 Jul 2025, 12:59

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "One Decision Away" by D.M. Carney.]

4 out of 5 stars

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Sometimes reviewers will comment that a particular book would make a great movie, but I think One Decision Away would work best as a series. D.M. Carney does an excellent job of ending chapters on cliffhangers, which made me want to binge-read. This novel is made up of many episodes. It would, however, have been helpful if each episode had started with a date subheading to avoid confusion with time jumps.

I like that the first chapter starts in the present, and then the next 27 chapters cover the previous eleven years, and that the 29th chapter returns to the present. About halfway through the book, I reread the first chapter, looking for clues I might have missed to help me solve the unfolding mystery. I also liked that the lesson alluded to in the title builds up throughout the book and ends on a climactic note.

The narrative follows Gabby, a girl going through normal teenage angst with some horrific details added to her difficult life. The relationship with her family and friends is dynamic and reflects real-life situations. Readers watch as Gabby makes decisions about home life, school, work, and love. Carney's skill at evoking empathy for all characters is impressive.

The genre of this book is listed as young adult, but caution should be taken in some areas, especially regarding the abundance of profanity. Because the author's writing style is dialogue-heavy, and the characters are teenagers living in a New York City ghetto, the conversations are shocking; I estimate an average of five profane words per page. Also, teenage drug use, drinking, and smoking are common activities. Sexual acts are alluded to, but thankfully, they are not too descriptive.

There are enough grammatical errors to warrant a one-star deduction, so my rating is four out of five stars. Carney's message to teens about how one decision can change a life is vital, but due to the language in this book, I would not be comfortable recommending this to the intended audience. I am aware from listening to teenagers talk on the subways in NYC that such language is authentic, but I did not enjoy seeing it on the printed page.

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One Decision Away
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Post by **Kibet Hillary** » Today, 00:29

It appears the author really did an exceptional job with the plot and the narration if the book would make one of the best series. I am wondering about the decisions Gabby makes and about the influencers on the same. The book definitely sounds interesting; thanks for the review, @Diana Lowery.

Post by **Diana Lowery** » Today, 10:49

Kibet Hillary wrote: ↑Today, 00:29 It appears the author really did an exceptional job with the plot and the narration if the book would make one of the best series. I am wondering about the decisions Gabby makes and about the influencers on the same. The book definitely sounds interesting; thanks for the review, @Diana Lowery.

I appreciate your thoughts, Kibet. The plot has been well-planned out.