Upside Down: Off the Map, Book 1

Riley’s debut delivers gut-punching emotions, sexy sizzle, and wry humor in a contemporary new adult story line. Natalia Stofli, a 21-year old Californian, heads to Melbourne as an exchange student. She plans to reboot herself as Talia 2.0, live life to the fullest, and get control of her obsessive/compulsive tendencies. Her plans are almost derailed when she meets Australian student Bran Lockhart, as he quickly sees through her performance and straight into her heart. Bran’s casual, gruff manner hides a tormented soul and secrets. Talia is puzzled by his push-pull signals, so she gives smart-alecky responses to hide her attraction. As Talia’s past becomes clear, Bran’s roommate and an ex-fiancé sabotage their on-again/off-again relationship. And though Talia and Bran do become committed to each other, the conclusion holds many more questions than answers. This book is thought-provoking and lyrical, gripping from beginning to end. Readers should note that the entire trilogy focuses on Talia and Bran, with their ultimate happy ending presumably to come at the end of book three. Agent: Emily Kim, Prospect Agency. (June)