So Not Happening--My Review

I'm not quite sure what to say about So Not Happening by Jenny B. Jones. I enjoyed it when I read it. I liked the main character, a high school student named Bella whose parents have recently divorced. Her mother met a man on the internet and now they have left Manhattan and the life of private schools, designer clothes and high-limit credit cards for life in small town Truman Oklahoma. She goes from being an only child to having (and sharing a bathroom with) three stepbrothers. She isn't happy--and I can't say that I blame her. Her mother decided that they were moving to OK, then decided that her credit cards would be cut off (and didn't tell her). I actually liked the stepfather. He seemed to be trying to help her adjust and acted like he cared. Her mom on the other hand, seemed to have this "This is the life I've chosen, and I think it is better than what you had before so you just have to deal with it" attitude. Her dad is too into himself and his latest squeezes to make time for her. When she visits, he greets her, hands her a credit card, and tells her why he doesn't have time for her. Her friends from New York are presented as shallow and vain rich kids; all the good people are in OK (but there are some bad ones there too).

At school Bella gets involved in the newspaper and discovers a big secret. The book follows her as she follows the story. I found that aspect of the book interesting, but in the end, unrealistic--but telling how would be a spoiler.

This is a YA book, and Christian fiction. Bella goes to church a couple of times, and says a prayer or two, and joins the FCA, but it really isn't a religious book and her faith isn't what saves the day.

First Wilcard will tour this book next week. Check back to read the first chapter.