September 5, 2007

Here’s Looking at You, Kid

“The New Kid,” by Eliot Schrefer

What to take along on your fall getaway weekend — another easy read or some serious fiction?

Pack light with a copy of The New Kid, a dark, sexy new novel by Eliot Schrefer that’s part Alex Garland, part E.M. Forster.

Fifteen-year-old Humphrey is used to being the new kid. Moved from place to place by his parents, he finds himself in small-town Florida, trying once again to fit in and figure things out — including his attraction to other boys.

Humphrey’s gorgeous half sister, Gretchen, knows how to get what she wants — and when her Harvard boyfriend breaks off their relationship, she flies to Italy to charm his wealthy, glamorous parents into helping her win him back.

Before you can say The Talented Mr. Ripley, Gretchen convinces the family to take her and Humphrey along on a holiday. But as they sail through the sun-drenched ports of southern Europe, the passengers’ secret desires and sinister motives are revealed — and the pleasure-seeking tour turns fatal.

That’s one slim thriller for your overnight bag.

Who says you overpack?

Available online at amazon.com or your local bookstore.