Jennifer Belle takes you back to the summer of 1982, as fourteen-year-old Swanna is the only kid waiting to be picked up from camp. When her mother eventually arrives, she’s with a new boyfriend and they’re headed to an artist colony instead of home to New York City. Swanna is right at the cusp of adulthood, forced to grow up even more due to her parents’ tumultuous relationship. I found myself wanting to look after Swanna, as she takes responsibility for her younger brother. This novel was both a beautiful and uncomfortable read, as Swanna falls in love with a married man. Belle distracts you enough to feel like Swanna is a grown-up, only to remind you again that she is just a teenager looking for stability and a chance to show off her new swimming suit. Fall in love with Swanna this summer. I certainly did. KM

Published by Dead Ink Books