For a mature YA reader, this book, translated from French by George Miller, is very, well, French. American YA is usually about the protagonist, but this was as much about the antagonist. Both characters are equally strong, as are the themes. But it's also bleak. "I don't like when it gets dark. These days that disappear into the shadows forever." In the story of Lou, an introvert bordering on genius, and No, a homeless teen she befriends, one bright spark occurs. It's in Lou's relationship with Lucas. Lou's voice is very clear as she declares that something had happened that made her grow up. And she wasn't afraid. There aren't too many American YA heroes who have that kind of self-awareness. Delphine de Vigan writes mostly for adults, but I hope she will write more YA and that it will be translated. This was a refreshingly realistic read.