The rom-com agenda

Denker (Lucky for You) spins rom-com gold in this vibrant, genre-savvy tale. Former foster child Leah Keegan is determined to leave the small town of Willow Cove, N.Y., after the foster mother she's spent the last year caring for dies of cancer. Before she can raise the funds to move, however, she overhears Eli Masterson proposing to his girlfriend, Victoria, who is about to start researching a book in Europe; Victoria declines. Heartbroken and determined to win her back, Eli takes the suggestion of his sister, Jenna, who proposes a makeover. With rom-com films as a guide, they'll transform Eli into a swoon-worthy romantic hero. When Leah is roped into this scheme by a mutual friend, attraction ignites but Leah fights it, knowing that Eli only has eyes for Victoria. Or does he? Answering that question is a funny and poignant ride, enhanced by sparkling prose and a stellar lineup of supporting characters, headlined by Jenna and her young daughters, Olivia and Zoe. Readers are sure to fall in love with the endearing protagonists of this squeaky clean charmer. (Jan.)

After months, Eli Masterson thinks he's ready for commitment to his girlfriend, Victoria, even if it means being long distance during her year-long sabbatical to Europe, but instead, Victoria breaks up with him. Eli is determined to win Victoria back. Thus, his friends conceive a makeover plan--new clothes, new hair, and new moves--to help win her back. Leah Keegan, who has spent the last year caring for her ill foster mother, is planning to move but becomes involved with the makeover scheme and this group of welcoming friends. She starts to wonder if staying put might be the answer for the first time in her life. Eli, despite the large number of rom-coms he's been forced to watch, is beginning to wonder if grand gestures aren't actually what he's looking for but rather someone who accepts him as he is. VERDICT Denker's (Lucky for You) sweet and slow-burn love story, showcasing in-depth knowledge of romantic comedies and featuring a supporting cast worthy of their own novels, will be a perfect addition to every library.--Kellie Tilton