What a joyous experience in getting to read Pepper Basham's first novel for young adults! The Cinderella Plot is written in a way that provides depth and maturity while capturing the innocence of youth, creating the perfect blend of a high school senior's world that is on the cusp of very adult decisions that will shape her future trajectory. It's fun and insightful, while warning us that identity shouldn't be taken lightly. Book Synopsis Paisley Harper is invisible. Not in a superpower way. More like the people-look-right-through-you-in-the-hallway kind of way. She’s the girl with the oversized cardigan, random book knowledge, and the uncanny ability to tutor the school’s star quarterback without actually being seen as anything more than helpful. Meanwhile, her aunt and uncle’s beloved small-town bookstore is under threat from a shiny corporate chain, her best friend keeps giving her looks that feel suspiciously loaded, and Homecoming is looming like a glittery remin...
I realize ARCing isn't quite a real verb; however, I'm sure that fellow readers can understand the actions involved in experiencing ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) books, so please indulge my creative use of this word. I started reviewing ARCs 18 years ago, and though I certainly haven't been consistent, I'm grateful to have picked up a thing or two since that time, with many more lessons learnt since I've ramped up my volume in the last several years. Some of the biggest discoveries I've made in my reading journey have included the following: 1. Be discriminate, in the best ways. Over time, it's been easy for me to spot beloved publishers and even have an idea of an author's content and style, even if they're new to me by checking out the author's websites and platforms, along with review sites. This mostly applies to traditional publishing where it can be easier to source information, but the principles apply to indie books and authors as well. As ...