Still Fighting – Past Midnight Book Reviews & More

My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Title: Still Fighting

Author: Syianne Horne

Format: eBook

Pages: 111

Publication Date: 1/15/26

Publisher: indie author

Categories: Fiction, Novella

Disclaimer: **I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**

Thank you to Syianne Horne for giving me a chance to read this eARC in exchange for an honest review!

Trouble has always followed Torres, and by eighth grade, his reputation feels impossible to escape. Beneath the tough exterior, he struggles with low self-esteem and doubts his ability to be anything more than his past mistakes. He leans on his friends Carlos and Arlin, but even their bond may not be enough when the pressure starts to build.

When a new teacher, Ms. Jenkins, refuses to give up on him, Torres is pushed to see himself differently. Now he must decide if he has the courage to believe in his own worth and choose a better future.

Content Warning: violence, drug dealing, grief

The author reached out to ask if I would read and review her book and I’m so glad I agreed to do it because this book is powerful, impactful and relevant to today’s political and social climate.

Told in multiple POVs from four people: Carlos, Arlin and Torres and their teacher, Ms. Jenkins, we get insight into the children’s lives. And yes they are children – middle school kids who still need guidance and support and Ms. Jenkins is there to give it the best she can even with opposition with school admin.

I have a child in the 7th grade and this hits home – especially with the personal narrative assignment, because givings kids a way to express themselves and tell their stories is so important. Arlin’s story brought tears to my eyes, and I felt Torres and Carlos’ frustrations and fears about what they went through and going through.

This story is heartbreaking, but also so very hopeful.

Final Thoughts:

This story is powerful and everyone should read it. It tells an important story about struggle, and yet left me hopeful for the future. I hope to read more books from this author!