Mia has just moved from a small, close-knit town to Oslo, where she feels adrift and out of place in the big city. Everything changes when she matches with an older man on Tinder—he is charming, experienced, and makes her feel seen and special.

Swept off her feet, Mia quickly moves in with him. But soon, red flags begin to appear. He becomes increasingly controlling, jealous, and manipulative. As the relationship turns suffocating, Mia must find a way out—but escaping proves far more difficult than she ever imagined.

Seventeen, Almost Eighteen is a gripping and unsettling young adult novel about being young, vulnerable, and in love. It explores the complexities of psychological abuse in close relationships and the struggle to break free from a destructive bond.

The novel stands out for its honest portrayal of power imbalances, emotional manipulation, and the subtle signs that can accumulate over time. Through Mia’s story, readers gain insight into how difficult it can be to recognize and leave a harmful relationship, and how crucial friendship and support are when life becomes overwhelming.

Reviews:

“Andrea Rudland Haave has succeeded with her debut. Seventeen, Almost Eighteen is a prime example of what a young adult novel should be. … Haave writes incredibly well—so well that she makes crafting a novel seem almost effortless. … The book maintains a strong momentum throughout, making it, in other words, difficult to get bored.”
— Magnus Rotevatn, Framtida.no

“Andrea Rudland Haave makes a solid debut with a young adult novel about a difficult, yet important, topic. … Seventeen, Almost Eighteen can provide valuable insight into what to watch out for, and offers hope that it is possible to break free from a painful and challenging relationship.”
— Inger Marie Kjølstadmyr, Barnebokkritikk

“Rarely have I seen a young adult novel with such a credible and insightful portrayal of the experience of psychological abuse. … Andrea Rudland Haave has experience as an actress and audiobook narrator, and develops scripts for schools and museums. This is her first book. It reveals a raw storytelling talent and a strong instinct for psychological drama. … Seventeen, Almost Eighteen is an important book that provides a chilling insight into toxic relationships. I have no doubt it could be essential reading for those who need it most.”
— Silje Bekeng-Flemmen, Klassekampen