Messed Up

by Janet Nichols Lynch

With his biological parents out of the picture, R.D. lives with his grandmother and her long-term boyfriend Earl. Life seems simple enough until R.D.'s grandmother leaves town with another man, leaving R.D. in the care of Earl. R.D. and Earl have a great relationship, but life soon changes. Earl dies, and R.D. is left on his own. R.D. is faced with difficult decisions, and he knows that he cannot let anyone know Earl is dead. If anyone finds out, he'll be forced to live in a group home. How will R.D. overcome this situation?

Personal Thoughts: I really enjoyed Lynch's novel! While the situation is heart-breaking, R.D.'s voice and sarcasm remain on target! I found myself crying and laughing at the same time.

The Cupcake Queen

by Heather Hepler

After being forced to leave Manhattan and spend the summer in her mother's hometown, a seaside community, Penny didn't think it could get worse. But it does! Her mother decides to permanently relocate to Hog's Hollow and open up a cupcake shop. Penny spends the remaining part of the summer working in her mother's shop, and after enrolling in the local high school, Penny uses the shop as an excuse to not make friends.

However, a chance meeting on the beach provides Penny with new friends and a possible romance.

Personal Thoughts: Penny's frustrations surrounding the new move and friendships are believable. I loved discovering more about Penny as the book continued. You will love Penny's honesty and humor!