The Secret of a Heart Note - Hardcover

Lee, Stacey

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0062428322 ISBN 13: 9780062428325

Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books, 2016

Synopsis

From critically acclaimed author Stacey Lee, an evocative novel about a teen aroma-expert who uses her extrasensitive sense of smell to help others fall in love—while protecting her own heart at all costs—perfect for fans of Lauren Myracle and E. Lockhart.

Sometimes love is right under your nose. As one of only two aromateurs left on the planet, sixteen-year-old Mimosa knows what her future holds: a lifetime of weeding, mixing love elixirs, and matchmaking—all while remaining incurably alone. For Mim, the rules are clear: falling in love would render her nose useless, taking away her one great talent. Still, Mimosa doesn’t want to spend her life elbow-deep in soil and begonias. She dreams of a normal high school experience with friends, sports practices, debate club, and even a boyfriend. But when she accidentally gives an elixir to the wrong woman and has to rely on the lovesick woman’s son, the school soccer star, to help fix the situation, Mim quickly begins to realize that falling in love isn’t always a choice you can make.

At once hopeful, funny, and romantic, Stacey Lee’s The Secret of a Heart Note is a richly evocative coming-of-age story that gives a fresh perspective on falling in love and finding one’s place in the world.

About this title

About the Author

Stacey Lee is a fourth generation Chinese-American whose people came to California during the heydays of the cowboys. She believes she still has a bit of cowboy dust in her soul. A native of southern California, she graduated from UCLA then got her law degree at UC Davis King Hall. After practicing law in the Silicon Valley for several years, she finally took up the pen because she wanted the perks of being able to nap during the day, and it was easier than moving to Spain. She plays classical piano, raises children, and writes YA fiction.

Review

“Like the most enchanting perfume, this smart, sweet, and romantic story will turn your head and bewitch your heart.” (Laura Ruby, Printz Award-winning author of Bone Gap)

“A heartfelt and magical romance that will keep you under its spell.” (Sarah Mlynowski, New York Times bestselling author)

“This imaginative and sweet coming-of-age tale is infused with the magic of first love.” (Kirkus Reviews)

“In this tantalizing book of contrasts—science and magic, ancient tradition and contemporary life, and seclusion and exploration, among them—Lee (Outrun the Moon) introduces a cast of memorable characters while tracing the external and internal conflicts of an engaging heroine.” (Publishers Weekly)

“Lee takes a typical first-crush, coming-of-age tale and adds a touch of magic to it. Mim navigates a twisty path of emotions, and her journey rings true as she uncovers the truth about her family and falling in love.” (Booklist)

“This contemporary fantasy takes on all the best attributes of a fairy tale, one set in modern California culture and populated with many diverse characters who are refreshing and well drawn. Give this to readers who enjoy coming-of-age stories featuring romance and magic.” (Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA))

“Mim and Court’s connection is well developed, particularly in in its heart-fluttery, blush-inducing innocence, while their complicated relationships with their respective mothers add a bit of depth to the froth. Romance lovers will delight in this perky bouquet of romance and heart.” (Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books)

“Steeped in teen-angst-driven misunderstandings, the exciting discovery of mutual attraction and the draw of the forbidden, THE SECRET OF A HEART NOTE imparts a deeply romantic warmth with light notes of humor and has the lovely tenderness of coming-into-your-own at its heart. Highly recommended!” (USA Today, Happily Ever After blog)

About this edition

• Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books
• Publication date: 2016
• ISBN 10: 0062428322
• ISBN 13: 9780062428325
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 384