Rating: 4/5 stars

Based off of the novel by Blake Nelson, Recovery Road is an interesting story that centers around high school junior Maddie Graham, who is reprimanded by her principal for being peer pressured into underage drinking. The principal gives her two options: expulsion or a sobriety program, and her mother, appalled by the option of her only daughter being expelled, immediately springs for the option of rehabilitation. After she stops viewing her entrance into Spring Meadows Center for Rehabilitation as unnecessary, she finds friends, a newfound sense of hope and a possible love interest by the end of her downhill spiral. Graham’s situation proves to be an extreme—yet relatable—case of the struggle of today’s teenagers and their need to fit in.

Despite the fact that ABC Freeform’s Recovery Road is aimed at ages 14 and above (for drug and alcohol references and use), the show paints rehabilitation for those looking to gain sobriety in a positive way. The series is extremely interesting and depicts the hardships of dealing personally or assisting a loved one with drug or alcohol abuse. Many different situations and events intertwine at the end of each episode and connect Maddie and her new friends’ problems, bringing the show full circle in a way similar to Modern Family.

On the other hand, the first few episodes contained confusing edits, and certain phrases and words seemed out of place and redundant. But even with them, they are minimally distracting and will not damage the plot in any way.

Even with its small issues, Recovery Road is definitely worth watching. Featuring a captivating plot and lovable characters, this yet-to-be-released series is appealing to anyone who is about to face, is currently in, or has survived their teenage years.