Joy Preble’s The A-Word is a funny, charming and page turning treat. It is the sequel to The Sweet and Dead Life but can be read independently. The story takes place in and around Houston and the sense of place is evident in everything from how the characters speak, to what they wear and eat. Local readers will enjoy the references to Torchy’s Tacos, H.E.B and football games. Readers from elsewhere can gain insight into what life in Texas is like.
The story is told from the perspective of Jenna Samuels. She’s a somewhat innocent high school student who is crushing hard on her first boyfriend, Ryan Sloboda. What she can’t tell him or anyone else is that her brother is an angel and that he works with a team of angels who are embroiled in fantastically awkward situations centering on corporate foul play. Preble manages to engage readers in all of the complicated relationships while keeping the spirit playful.
There’s the allusion throughout the book that “something bigger is brewing” and I for one can’t wait to see what adventures lay ahead for Jenna.
Although the book isn’t slated for release until June, I have a couple of the advanced reader copy to give away! If you’re interested, send me a message about why you’d like to read it. One lucky winner will be chosen and I’ll send them the book!
HipMamaJenn 