The Rom-Com Agenda

Denker (Lucky for You) spins rom-com gold in this vibrant, genre-savvy tale. Former foster child Leah Keegan is determined to leave the small town of Willow Cove, N.Y., after the foster mother she’s spent the last year caring for dies of cancer. Before she can raise the funds to move, however, she overhears Eli Masterson proposing to his girlfriend, Victoria, who is about to start researching a book in Europe; Victoria declines. Heartbroken and determined to win her back, Eli takes the suggestion of his sister, Jenna, who proposes a makeover. With rom-com films as a guide, they’ll transform Eli into a swoon-worthy romantic hero. When Leah is roped into this scheme by a mutual friend, attraction ignites but Leah fights it, knowing that Eli only has eyes for Victoria. Or does he? Answering that question is a funny and poignant ride, enhanced by sparkling prose and a stellar lineup of supporting characters, headlined by Jenna and her young daughters, Olivia and Zoe. Readers are sure to fall in love with the endearing protagonists of this squeaky clean charmer. (Jan.)