Melanie's Book Addiction: Review : Scarlett's by A.L. Collins

Author : A.L. Collins

Paperback 241 pages

Published March 1st 2012 by Createspace

ISBN13 : 9781475032017

*Book courtesy of the author in exchange for an honest review*

A.L. Collins' debut Y/A novel Scarlett's takes an inspiring,motivating and sometimes humorous approach to the realities that young adults are confronted with today. Just when everything around Jaime Williams starts to cave in, when it looks like the economy has claimed another victim, she takes a job at the local diner in hopes of finding what is missing in her life. Scarlett's will have you cheering for all that is good in this world. She builds some amazing relationships along the way and Jaime's solace comes in the help and encouragement that she gives to those closest to her. When a friend stumbles upon some writings in an old binder under her bed while helping her move, the world that Jaime once knew is about to change... Karma is a wonderful thing!

Jaime loves her job at a restaurant but when she's on the verge of losing her duplex, she has no choice but move back home. She doesn't want to lose all the great friendships at the restaurant but what can you do when the economy threatens to take your home? She's always been good to others. When a family in need goes to the restaurant, she offers to pay their meals. Now that she's the one needing help, her friend Ashton will step up to offer a hand. While helping her move, Ashton discovers a binder filled with her writing. Impressed, he decides to publish this book for Jaime without her knowing. Her life as she knew it will be about to change. If all goes well Jaime might not have to move after all!

A.L. Collins is back with his second novel but his first YA. Scarlett's is very different from his first fantasy novel Bastion : Prequel to War. This young man proves he's a very versatile and talented author.

Scarlett's is a perfect book for this upcoming summer. It's a light and easy read. More importantly, it's a feel-good story. I love the friendship between Jaime and Ashton and the rest of her co-workers. It makes you realize that good things can come to those who help others. Like the book description says, in the end Karma can be a wonderful thing! Reading this book put a smile on my face. The story is very realistic. The characters are dealing with real life problems which makes it easier for us to relate. I really enjoyed reading about the whole independent publishing process. There's also a surprise romance developing at the end of the book. Trust me, you won't be expecting it!

One my favorite character is without a doubt Meg. She's one of Ashton's friends and she's helping him with the publishing process even though she doesn't know Jaime. She's extremely funny. I love the part where Meg and Jaime go to school to talk about the book. Hilarious! The teacher doesn't seem to think Jaime is really a published author if she's independently published. I love Meg and Jaime's responses to the students and the teacher. Lots of laughs guaranteed! Meg is also very vulnerable. She knows first hand how kids can be cruel these days. I also like Ashton. Jaime is lucky to have a friend like him who's willing to pay to get her book published. He also took a big chance. What if Jaime didn't want the world to read her book? She lacks confidence but having her book published might just be what she needs in order to pursue her dream.

Scarlett's is amazingly written. This author never ceases to impress me. I really hope there's a sequel. I want to read more about these characters!

Scarlett's is now 99 cents on the Kindle. Great deal for a great book! Click here to get your copy.

5 out of 5 stars!