Beach Cute

February 19, 2024
In this breezy comedy by Reekles (the Kissing Booth series), three teens form new friendships while staying at an exclusive Spanish beach resort, where they must face the uncertainties of impending adulthood and romantic upheaval. Having dumped her boyfriend of several years, Luna needs some time to herself while she figures out how to navigate single life again; Rory must find a way to tell her family that she’d rather be an artist and social media influencer than pursue a law degree; and hardworking Jodie has never really been on her own before, but she’s in dire need of a break from stress caused by her schooling. Upon their arrival to Casa Dorada, the girls learn that it’s a gadget-free resort, with draconian rules regarding activity participation. Their luxury vacation quickly spirals into a comedy of errors as the trio endure flooded rooms, a resort manager seemingly out to make their lives miserable, and a dreaded lobster incident. Through the protagonist’s alternating perspectives, Reekles solidly portrays moments of uncertainty and growth, and delivers an entertaining blend of humor, romance, and drama. Luna is described as “dark-skinned”; other characters cue as white. Ages 14–up. Agent: Becca Langton, Darley Anderson Literary.

April 1, 2024
Three young British women taking solo vacations confront their issues and become fast friends. Rory, Luna, and Jodie have each signed up for a week at Casa Dorada, a digital detox resort in Spain, hoping the break from their real and online lives will help them navigate the tricky situations they're dealing with. Rory wants to pursue a creative career but isn't sure how to tell her protective family, who want her to study law; Luna is second-guessing her breakup from a long-term boyfriend; and Jodie, the first in her family to go to university, has spent so much time and energy studying that she doesn't know what she actually wants to do when she graduates. With no phones, computers, or e-readers to distract them, plus a shared disdain for the resort's organized activities, the trio quickly go from strangers to friends. Over the course of the week, they'll resolve conflicts within their group as well as within themselves and head home stronger both as a unit and individually. Luna has Jamaican ancestry; Rory and Jodie are cued white. The relaxed pace is balanced by savvy character development and plenty of humor. Though there's a small romantic subplot for one of the characters, the main focus is on the developing relationships among the girls and how the new friends help each other surmount their challenges. A holiday in the sun filled with heart and soul. (Fiction. 14-18)

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April 1, 2024
Grades 8-11 Seasoned YA romance author Reekles (The Kissing Booth, 2013) brings her fun writing style and comedic flair to a story of three teens trying to escape their problems at a beach resort. Luna, Rory, and Jodie meet during their getaways and strike up a friendship after connecting over their current frustrations--being dumped by a boyfriend, dealing with meddling parents, and trying to find who's larger, respectively. A major theme of the novel is the damaging effects of social media, making the resort's no-phones policy a well-considered choice. Nevertheless, the girls cannot seem to escape technology that exacerbates heartbreak and fosters an obsessive need for online acceptance. As the story progresses, it becomes one about the importance of making meaningful connections, the power of overcoming tough times, and how unexpected friendships can help one heal and grow. This refreshing summer read will hit home with readers who enjoy character-driven stories and appreciate narratives anchored by strong friendships.

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June 1, 2024

Gr 9 Up-Luna, Rory, and Jodie meet when they are at the same resort for a week-long, device-free vacation. The resort looks idyllic in its advertisement but the three did not realize the device-free requirement. Luna is still reeling from her recent breakup with Liam. Even though she broke up with him, she is beginning to think she was too hasty. She begins to believe she sees Liam and the girl he may be seeing everywhere around the resort. Rory is struggling to find a way to tell her family that she doesn't want to be a lawyer but an artist. She has hidden her social media life from her family. Jodie just feels lost in all aspects of her life and is sort of drifting. The three girls strike up a friendship, commiserating over the lack of their phones and devices. Mishaps ensue and their dream resort becomes a nightmare. Complications and emotions run high which cause friendship issues. Eventually, each member of the trio begins to find her own strength, drawing on one another. The main characters are engaging and relatable. The writing flows well, and the novel is fast paced. There is a lot of humor in this book, as well as romance and regret. Most importantly, there is friendship. VERDICT This is a beach read coupled with a coming-of-age story and will appeal to readers of many genres. Fans of Sarah Dessen and Lynn Painter will enjoy.-Melissa Palmer

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