The Edge of Summer by Erica George is a sincere story of first love and first loss, but also of marine conservation. Following a summer marine biology intern, this one contains plenty of descriptions of efforts to save the whales and a realistic main character who comes to learn from her mistakes. I was especially impressed by the way the author raises awareness about entanglements and other threats to marine life, making this a perfect summer read with many impactful moments. Continue reading
The Other Side of Perfect by Mariko Turk is an impactful story about identity and raising your voice. Following a dancer who suffers a career-ending injury, the emotions in this story run high, and the main character is exceptionally well-written. Her fight against racism in classical ballets is especially powerful, making this a thought-provoking read. Continue reading
Sister of the Bollywood Bride by Nandini Bajpai contains just the sort of drama I love to read about. Following a girl who singlehandedly plans her sister’s wedding, this one is filled with both wedding catastrophes and community support. The main character is kindhearted, and the descriptions of each aspect of the wedding make the event jump off the page. I would definitely recommend this to those looking for an entertaining and uplifting read. Continue reading
Instructions for a Secondhand Heart by Tamsyn Murray has an enjoyable concept, but the characterization is lacking. I also found certain aspects of the book to be kind of creepy, and I didn’t enjoy the romance. This book had so much potential, but I ended up pretty disappointed. Continue reading
Title: The New Guy (and Other Senior Year Distractions)
A ridiculously cute, formerly famous, new guy dropping into your life? It’s practically every girl’s dream.
But not Jules McCallister-Morgan’s.
I realize that on paper I look like your standard type-A, neurotic, overachiever. And maybe I am. But I didn’t get to be the editor of my school’s long-revered newspaper by just showing up*. I have one main goal for my senior year — early acceptance into my first choice Ivy League college — and I will not be deterred by best friends, moms who think I could stand to “live a little,” or boys.
At least, that was the plan before I knew about Alex Powell**.
And before Alex Powell betrayed me***.
I know what you’re thinking: Calm down, Jules. But you don’t understand. This stuff matters. This is my life. And I’m not going down without a fight.
* Okay, I sort of did. But it’s a sore subject.
** I mean, I guess everyone knows about Alex Powell? Two years ago, you couldn’t go anywhere without hearing about viral video boy band sensation Chaos 4 All. Two years ago, Alex Powell was famous.
*** Some people think I’m overreacting. But this. Means. War.
Filled with tons of romance, rivalry, and passive-aggressive dog walking, Amy Spalding delivers a hilariously relatable high school story that’s sure to have you falling for The New Guy.
❃ I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. ❃
The New Guy by Amy Spalding is one of the most original and creative books I’ve read so far this year. It is all about a school newspaper, rivalry, and a character who used to be in a popular boy band. To top it all off, the main character has two moms, which is definitely uncommon in YA. This whole book is just a massive rollercoaster! Continue reading