The Rules of Regret

Gr 9 Up—Nineteen-year-old Darby is at a loss when her wealthy, handsome, and politically connected boyfriend leaves for a six-week internship in Washington, DC. Darby has attached herself to Troy for the last six years of her life, and their relationship has become Darby's life, her constructed routine, and her concrete future. With Troy gone, Darby is left to find herself, whether she means to or not. To pass the time, Darby finds a job as a counselor at an adventure camp, where she meets Torin, a shaggy, outdoors type who challenges her beyond her comfort level. So ensues a friendship that has the ability to turn Darby's world upside down. Amy McFadden narrates this romance with finesse, taking listeners into the character's thoughts and feelings. Unfortunately, the story, though entertaining, is disappointing, as teens may hope to see Darby discover her independence on her own. Instead, it seems she does so through another boy. Still, fans of this genre will find this work appealing.—Betsy Davison, Cortland Free Library, NY