05/12/2014
Sixteen-year-old tomboy Charlie Reynolds undergoes a summer of soul-searching and growth in West’s (Split Second) fourth book for teens. Raised with plenty of male influences—three brothers, her next door neighbor Braden, and a widowed police officer father—Charlie is a star athlete and well-protected from the outside world, especially when it comes to dating. Recently, Charlie has been crushing on Braden, and she’s also getting attention for her looks at her new job at a clothing store. In short, Charlie’s sense of identity is in upheaval, her intense workouts aren’t sufficient relief, and her constant nightmares about her mother’s fatal car accident are stirring up repressed memories. Nightly, Charlie and Braden find solace in sneaking out to talk to each other (Braden’s father is drinking a lot), but Charlie fears that he will never see her as anything more than just a buddy. West builds enjoyable tension and absorbing chemistry between Charlie and Braden, and her depiction of growing up surrounded by brothers is thoroughly enjoyable. Ages 13–up. Agent: Michelle Wolfson, Wolfson Literary Agency. (July)
Praise for THE DISTANCE BETWEEN US: “THE DISTANCE BETWEEN US shines! This book is rich with sparkling dialogue, clever wit and sweet romance.” — Daisy Whitney, author of THE MOCKINGBIRDS and WHEN YOU WERE HERE
“An antidote to dystopian and post–apocalyptic fiction, this Cinderella story is sweet and hopeful.” — Kirkus Reviews
The charming story is beautifully written, and the characters are well developed. West’s novel is sweet and captivating. — School Library Journal
Praise for PIVOT POINT “An expertly plotted, deliciously clever story.” — Kiersten White, NEW YORK TIMES bestselling author of PARANORMALCY
“PIVOT POINT is at once tense and romantic, challenging and engaging. It’s a truly remarkable debut.” — Robison Wells, author of VARIANT
“West’s premise is a winner, and Addie is the kind of heroine readers would want as a best friend—loyal, unpretentious, and thoughtful.…What truly makes West’s story memorable, however, is Addie’s wry humor…and the book’s fascinating exploration of how life can change with one simple choice.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review)
“West’s debut showcases riveting storytelling.” — Kirkus Reviews
“With superb storytelling, a masterful blend of paranormal and normal, a helping of wit and humor, and a mouthwatering romance, PIVOT POINT is one of the most delicious books I’ve read.” — Elana Johnson, author of POSSESSION
“West has created an intricately woven story of two possible futures. This debut novel…is a welcome change.” — School Library Journal
With superb storytelling, a masterful blend of paranormal and normal, a helping of wit and humor, and a mouthwatering romance, PIVOT POINT is one of the most delicious books I’ve read.