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Hepler, Heather
5 Reviews
(4)
YA
Penny Lane (The Cupcake Queen) prepares for winter in Hog's Hollow with her mom, grandma, and friends. She's also anxious about her relationship with Marcus; is targeted by an anonymous bully; and helps raise money for an animal shelter. Like life in a small town, the novel is slow paced, but it has a satisfying ending in which the bully is exposed.
Reviewer: Rachel L. Smith
(3)
YA
Though Piper was born on Valentine's Day, works in a chocolate shop, and has a florist for a mother, she's a cynic and hates the holiday. Her friends are determined to find boyfriends by Valentine's Day; Piper doesn't like the idea, but she finds hope for love in surprising places. This story is unexpectedly deep for what on the surface looks like a typical romance story.
Reviewer: Amanda Mc. MacGregor
(4)
YA
To Penny, there's nothing great about Hog's Hollow, where her mom decided to move and open a bakery. Penny misses city life, struggles with her parents' separation, and is tormented by mean girls. Eventually--and predictably--she makes some friends (one a cute guy), and learns to appreciate small-town life. Though the story lacks originality, descriptions of Penny's cupcake creations are a treat.
Reviewer: Rachel L. Smith
(4)
YA
With their schizophrenic mother in a mental institution, their father falling apart, and their little brother needing constant care, Shana and Chloe try to find ways to cope. Shana hides her face beneath goth makeup while Chloe finds a niche at Starbucks. Told in the sisters' alternating voices, the narrative flows smoothly, but the relentlessly melancholic tone grows tedious.
Reviewer: Rachel L. Smith
(4)
YA
When Disney World's costumed actors strike, teens are brought in. Ella (as Cinderella) is hiding a tragic loss, while Luke (chipmunk Dale) is figuring out his future. Both are dating the right characters (Prince Charming and Chip, respectively) but the wrong people. Readers may grow impatient with the will-they-or-won't-they dating scenario (they will), but behind-the-scenes theme park details will keep readers entertained.
Reviewer: Norah Piehl
5 reviews
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