THE UNEXPECTED EVERYTHING

Seventeen-year-old Andie Walker’s life is planned down to the minute, and she likes it that way.

Perhaps it’s the byproduct of being the daughter of a prominent Connecticut congressman and knowing that there can be no missteps for fear of damaging his career. Or perhaps it’s because with her mother dead and her father spending most of his time in Washington, Andie’s virtually lived on her own for years. However, when her father finds himself at the center of a political scandal and forced to stay at home until the investigation is complete, Andie’s carefully planned summer runs right off the rails. With her acceptance to a prestigious pre-med summer program suddenly revoked, the white teen unexpectedly finds herself jobless, directionless, and alone in a house with a near stranger who decides he wants to play father. While it takes Andie’s Type A tendencies a while to adjust, what unfolds is a touchingly sweet story about friendship, loss, family, and love. How nice it is to also find a book that steers clear of clichéd girl drama in favor of portraying long-standing and supportive friendships. Romance fans will find plenty to enjoy, as Andie gradually lets down her guard and risks the messy and unpredictable wonder of first love.

A novel best read on a lazy summer day with sand between the toes.