Tia Fisher, author of the “brilliant” (Brian Patten) debut verse novel Crossing the Line, has written an article on county lines for The School Librarian.

In the piece, Tia “explains the reality of the county lines issue and what we can do to help the vulnerable young people targeted”, including the importance of books in exploring difficult topics, just who is vulnerable, and how to spot the signs and intervene.

Described as “innovative” (School Reading List) and “a gripping read” (Lucy Cuthew, author of Blood Moon), Crossing the Line is a stunning YA novel and a poignant story about seeking safety and asking for help in times of crisis.

Erik’s life has been falling apart ever since his dad died. Homework and being good at school stop feeling important when you’re the new man of the house. When Erik’s bad behaviour attracts the wrong crowd, he’s sucked into a terrifying new world of drug dealing, trap houses and violence.

Making money feels good but Erik soon learns that a small favour can become a huge debt.

And when his sisters’ lives are threatened, Erik will have to cross one more line to save them.

Crossing the Line is out now. Grab your copy here or, better, via your local bookshop or Bookshop.org.

Follow Tia on Twitter @tiafisher_.