One Small Thing

Good girl falls for bad boy may be an old theme in romance novels, but Watt (When It’s Real) adds an edgy twist. Since her sister’s death three years ago, 17-year-old Beth’s parents have become overprotective and overbearing, making her feel like a prisoner in her own home. In an act of rebellion, she sneaks out to a party and hooks up with a stranger, not recognizing him as Charles Donnelly, the reckless driver who struck her sister with a stolen car. The plot thickens when Charles (Chase), recently released from juvie and now living in Beth’s town, tries to make a fresh start at Beth’s school. Beth knows she should hate him as much as her harassing classmates do, but she can’t help being drawn to him. Ironically, he is the one person who understands her pain and offers advice she can really use. Watt skillfully dissects an extremely complicated and highly improbable situation to reveal the layers of emotions experienced by Beth and other characters. Beth’s anger toward her parents, the grief she feels for the loss of her sister, and her attraction to Chase will be deeply felt by readers. Ages 14–up. Agent: Don Fehr, Trident Media Group. (June)