This is a beautifully written story about family and friendship, first love, and learning how to be true to yourself. Huntley Fitzpatrick writes about life with all its strangeness, even covering tough topics like politics and addiction* with honesty and humor.

    Samantha Reed lives a rich life with her single mother and older sister that includes private school, weekly dinners at the local country club and a summer job where she gets to spend time with her long time BFF, Nan and her twin brother, Tim. Life isn’t always what it seems and Reed’s is no different. Her mom’s a senator*. She’s rarely around but when she is, she takes “involved” to a whole new level, going as far as checking to see if Reed’s hair is properly conditioned and making sure she’s in bed by a certain time each night. (She’s 17!)

    The girl takes joy each night watching from her balcony the Garretts, the family who lives next door. They have eight children. People in their town feel the need to comment on* their lives, how many kids they have and other things. What outsiders fail to miss is how much love the Garretts have going on.

    Reed has secretly* watched the Garretts for years. Her mother thinks the Garretts are “those kind” of people and turns her nose up at them any chance she gets. But all that’s about to change when Jase, the smart, funny, considerate and handsome boy from the wrong side of the fence decides to climb Reed’s trellis*. One simple question will begin a journey of love and adventure that neither of them will ever forget. It will also change both of their lives forever.(SD-Agencies)