One competition, two girls, and a love neither expects to find…
Attending Dukes Academy is every young musicians dream. Each July, gifted teens from across the country flock to its famous summer camp desperate to scoop the ultimate prize – a fully funded place at the college.
When Georgie and her guide dog arrive at camp, she has her heart set on more than landing the scholarship. She’s determined to put the isolation of school behind her and finally make friends. Falling in love wasn’t part of the plan, but the moment she meets sweet, gentle Mina, the summer takes on a whole new meaning.
For Mina, winning the scholarship is her best chance of convincing her conventional parents to let her pursue a music career. If she fails, she’ll forget her hopes and resign herself to studying medicine. Yet, when she encounters Georgie – funny, brave and sure of what she wants – everything changes.
As the weeks pass in a haze of workshops, rehearsals and secrets whispered late at night, the girls become inseparable. But unless Georgie is able to trust again and Mina can find the courage to be true to herself, they risk losing something far more precious than the scholarship.
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What Readers Say
“I absolutely adored this book! It’s a love letter to music, young love, and the turmoil of being a teenager discovering themselves. The main characters all have diverse backgrounds in their families and struggle in different ways, having to overcome so much in just one summer.” – Emily’s Hurricane
“A truly heartwarming, sweet and hopeful coming-of-age story! The disability representation was so well done and the guide dog Star was such an adorable side character! The way they all eventually dared to be true to themselves and stand up for their beliefs was such a hopeful and wonderful message.” – Annie’s Reading Tips
“This is the type of YA anyone (in my opinion) can appreciate: it doesn’t feel dumbed down; rather, it insightfully captures the feeling of what it’s like to be a teen. It’s also got great representation on many angles—queerness, disability, mental health—and the story felt natural, with a wonderfully diverse cast of side friends.” – Molly Ringle
Excerpt
Imagine if everyone at Brookminster Comp could see me now. Here I am, all done up in my best jeans and new Nirvana T-shirt, on my way to an actual party. They wouldn’t recognise me. Blimey, I hardly recognise myself. Jake was psyched for me when I told him.
I finish off with a squirt of White Musk and clip on Star’s lead. Maybe I’d be better leaving her in our room, but this is all kinds of nerve-racking. I need my furry friend with me for moral support. Also, she’s the perfect icebreaker.
“Right, let’s do this,” I say to Star, slinging the guide dog harness over my shoulder. I’ll put it on her once we’re outside.
We head out of the flat and across the lobby. My heart bounces around my chest like a bloody pinball. Not totally sure where I’m going. Chanelle said flat one was opposite ours, and…there. My hand, stretched out in front of me, finds the door. First challenge completed. Now for my second challenge – getting to Himari’s room.
I grip the handle. Next moment, it’s jerked from my grasp and I stumble as the door flies inward.
Read more…“Oh my gosh,” comes a girl’s startled voice. “I’m so sorry. I wasn’t expecting anyone to be there. Are you OK?”
“Yeah. Yeah, fine.” I steady myself against the doorframe. Fantastic start, George, almost nosediving into the carpet.
Star trots forward, tail whipping my legs. Attention seeker. She’ll sweet bark anyone into making a fuss of her.
“Hey, sweetheart.” The girl obliges, crouching to Star’s level. “Is it all right if I say hello?”
“Be my guest. Her name’s Star.” Don’t mind me. I lean against the wall and try to pretend I’m not here.
“Sorry, that was really rude,” the girl says. Damned face. It must’ve given me away again. Still, she sounds like she means it.
“Really,” she adds, tone earnest, “I didn’t mean to imply I only wanted to talk to Star. I’m Mina.”
“Georgie.” I smile. Can’t help it. Ridiculous how amazing it feels, introducing myself, like this is the start of something.
“Star’s gorgeous,” Mina tells me from the floor. “How long have you had her?”
“A couple of months. Wouldn’t be without her now, though.”
“I bet. You’re so lucky. I’ve always wanted a dog – Dad, too – but Mum’s allergic.”
My grin widens. Talk about goofy. I’m so used to being pitied, never occurred to me anyone might envy me. It’s sort of nice. Talking to Mina is nice, too. There’s a warmth about her that puts me at ease.
“I am lucky to have her,” I agree. “Star’s changed my life. Gutting you can’t have a dog.”
“It really is. We do have a cat called Misty and she lets me cuddle her when she’s in a good mood.” Mina laughs and gets to her feet. “Are you going to the party?”
I nod. “Walking over with some of the others. I’m supposed to meet them at Himari’s.”
“Oh, OK. If you follow the corridor along and to the right, hers is the door straight ahead. Can you find your way?”
“Should be able to. Thanks.”
“You’re welcome.” Mina gives Star a last pat. “I might see you later then.”
“See you.” I step aside, drawing Star with me to let Mina through. As she slips past, I breathe in her scent. It’s sweet and citrussy, like lemon meringue. Her light footsteps hurry across the lobby and she pulls open the door, letting in a waft of evening air.
“Bye,” she calls. Then she’s gone and the door closes with a muted thud.
I stay where I am, disappointment gnawing at me.