Beach Cute
Beth Reekles. Delacorte, $12.99 paper (384p) ISBN 978-0-593-80906-8
In this breezy comedy by Reekles (the Kissing Booth series), three teens form new friendships while staying at an exclusive Spanish beach resort, where they must face the uncertainties of impending adulthood and romantic upheaval. Having dumped her boyfriend of several years, Luna needs some time to herself while she figures out how to navigate single life again; Rory must find a way to tell her family that she’d rather be an artist and social media influencer than pursue a law degree; and hardworking Jodie has never really been on her own before, but she’s in dire need of a break from stress caused by her schooling. Upon their arrival to Casa Dorada, the girls learn that it’s a gadget-free resort, with draconian rules regarding activity participation. Their luxury vacation quickly spirals into a comedy of errors as the trio endure flooded rooms, a resort manager seemingly out to make their lives miserable, and a dreaded lobster incident. Through the protagonist’s alternating perspectives, Reekles solidly portrays moments of uncertainty and growth, and delivers an entertaining blend of humor, romance, and drama. Luna is described as “dark-skinned”; other characters cue as white. Ages 14–up. Agent: Becca Langton, Darley Anderson Literary. (May)
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Reviewed on: 02/15/2024
Genre: Children's