Did I Mention I Love You?

November 9, 2015
In this trilogy opener, originally published serially on Wattpad, Maskame delivers a believable coming-of-age story and an unconventional romance, set against a present-day California summer. Eden Munro hasn't heard from her father in three years, so the 16-year-old is dubious when she's invited to visit his sprawling California home. She makes the trip from Portland, Ore., and meets his new wife, Ella, and her three sons, including volatile Tyler. Eden befriends a group of girls, including Tyler's girlfriend, and is drawn into a privileged world of parties and excess, with alcohol and drugs in abundance. She also struggles with a growing, taboo attraction to Tyler, whose self-destructive behavior hides profound personal pain. Eden's narration is relatable, and though her pragmatism often clashes with her new friends' irresponsibility, it doesn't diminish the wonder of self-discovery. The fallout of divorce, the insidiousness of substance abuse and family secrets, and especially the pangs of first love drive this emotionally resonant tale. Readers eager to learn what happens next in Eden and Tyler's story won't need to wait long: the subsequent books in the trilogy will be published in early 2016. Ages 14âup.

December 1, 2015

Gr 9 Up-Eden Munro is a self-conscious yet strong 16-year-old who is spending her summer vacation in her estranged father's California home with his new wife and three new stepbrothers. Her father's decision to leave her family more than three years ago results in feelings of abandonment in the teen. Although still angry with him, she decides to accept his offer to stay for the summer as a way to avoid some issues she faces in Portland, where she's from. Upon her arrival, Eden meets her oldest stepbrother, Tyler Bruce, whom she initially describes as obnoxious, conceited, and an angry drug abuser who appears to be living behind some very high walls he has created for himself. Despite Eden's apprehension about befriending anyone associated with Tyler, she finds herself enjoying her time with his small group of friends. However, the more time she spends with Tyler, the more they both realize there is a forbidden attraction that they cannot deny. Written in first person, Maskame's trilogy opener is an excellent portrayal of a teenage girl's life in the 21st century. Eden has to adjust to her blended family, try to feel pretty, be body conscious, and make friends, all while falling in love for the first time. She is someone all young people can relate to. Although very much a young love story, this tale also addresses some very serious issues, such as betrayal, drug abuse, child abuse, and peer pressure. VERDICT Romance fans will be captivated by Eden and her journey to finding herself and true love.-Bernice La Porta, Susan E. Wagner High School, Staten Island, NY

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