CHASING LUCKY

A determined 17-year-old has an explosive summer.

Josie Saint-Martin isn’t happy thanks to the facts that she’s never lived in one location long enough to make connections; her single, 36-year-old bookstore manager mom isn’t capable of responsible parenting or communication; and her fashion photographer father, whom she doesn’t really know, won’t take her on as an apprentice until she proves her worth. Josie has a plan for her future, and the last thing she needs is to test the infamous Saint-Martin love curse with former childhood bestie Lucky Karras, who’s now the hot bad boy in Beauty, their gossipy hometown where they’ve returned to live. Her cousin Evie drags her to a party celebrating the start of summer and hosted by Evie’s ex-boyfriend, a descendent of the town’s founder, who spreads vicious rumors about Josie. In a fit of rage, Josie commits a regrettable action, landing her and Lucky in a holding cell—with Lucky taking the fall. As summer progresses, Josie uncovers long-buried family secrets, learns why Lucky lied to the police, and falls in love. Bennett’s detailed descriptions add to the lore of Josie’s small, historic New England harbor town, giving readers a crystal-clear sense of the setting. The brisk pace and Josie’s realistic, inviting voice will make readers want to dive into the story and love these flawed characters. Josie and Lucky are white; Evie’s late father was black.

A fun summer read about honesty and making mistakes.