Love Songs & Other Lies

Gr 9 Up—On summer break, Virginia (Vee), a talented songwriter and musician, leaves Michigan for a three-month reality band competition tour with best friend, Logan. Much to her surprise and initial dismay, the newest member of Your Future X is Cameron, Vee's not—quite forgiven or forgotten ex. Guilt-ridden and alone, Cam moved to Riverton from California after a horrible accident that killed his parents. Vee becomes the center of attention on a tour bus full of single musicians where every moment, private or not, is viewed by the fans. Told in alternating points of view, this story's pacing is quick, switching between two years prior to the present. Much like notes plucked on their guitars, Vee can't deny the hum of sexual tension between herself and Cam. Will Vee forgive him and open herself up to love again? This modern-day realistic fictional romance has both steamy love scenes and tender moments between best friends which gives it appeal for even reluctant readers. Its Battle of the Bands meets The Bachelorette premise will grab teens' attention and the execution will sustain it.