New Girl (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9798224934829)

Andi thought it would be just another ordinary first day of sophomore year. But her world is upended when a mysterious new girl shows up. With her California tan and competitive surfing background, she is unlike anyone Andi has ever met in her sleepy Michigan town.

Intrigued, Andi reaches out and offers to take her surfing on the Great Lakes. Though sceptical at first, she agrees and is soon hooked by the thrill of the waves. As they spend more time together, Andi finds herself inexplicably drawn to this guarded yet captivating girl.

Over the school year, their bond grows stronger through late-night conversations, adventurous trips, and cosy study sessions. Bit by bit, she opens up to Andi about the loneliness she feels after her recent move and the divorce of her parents. Andi begins to fall for her but worries about ruining their easy friendship by confessing her true feelings. With some nudging from her best buddy, Andi finally works up the courage to ask her, despite the fear of her not feeling the same way.

When summer arrives, she returns to California to visit family and friends, leaving Andi pining in Michigan. At first, they stay connected through daily video chats and calls. But as the weeks pass, Andi starts feeling insecure about whether she's as committed to her. She worries that her small town can't compete with her glamorous West Coast life.

The bittersweet reunion comes at summer's end, but Andi remains uncertain about where their relationship is heading. She wants to believe their connection is strong enough to go the distance. But with college looming, will this California girl ultimately choose sunny San Diego over her Midwest love?

They still have the rest of high school ahead of them to navigate the ups and downs of their young romance. This identifiable yet tender coming-of-age story explores the thrill of first love, as well as the challenges of maintaining a long-distance relationship. With relatable characters and emotional depth, it will resonate with anyone who has fallen hard for that one special person. Full of heart, humour, and the nostalgia of adolescence, this book captures that unforgettable feeling of finding your soulmate in high school.