Sing Me to Sleep

Beth has always been "The Beast" - that's what everyone at school calls her because of her awkward height, facial scars, and thick glasses. Who could love a best? Beth's only friend is geeky, golden-haired Scott. That is, until she is selected to be her choir's soprano soloist, and recevies the makeover of a lifetime. Suddenly, everyone wants a piece of Beth. Things only get better when her choir travels to Switzerland and Beth meets the mysterious Derek. They have an incredible whirlwind affair that makes Beth realize, for the first time, she too can find love. She's no longer The Beast. In Derek's eyes, she's a beauty. But then Scott makes a heartbreaking confession to Beth that leaves her completely torn. Should she stand by sweet, steady Scott or follow the dangerous, passionate feelings she has for Derek? And there's an even bigger problem: Derek's got a secret...one that could shatter everything.

This book took me completely by surprise. On the surface it seemed like it would be another summer-fling story, but the girl learns she really loves her friend back home. This was not the case. Angela Morrison created a story so deep it was hard to pull out of. I thoroughly enjoyed the choir atmosphere, being involved in three different choirs myself. Music was described perfectly, how it takes hold of a person and transports them to another universe to unite with the world.

I'll admit I was taken aback by the sudden twists in the plot. I thought I knew how the book would end, but I was mistaken. It was a good mistake, and I am extremely glad I was wrong. Although I was disappointed Beth's character changed from Beast to Beauty rather quickly, I was blown away by the characterization of Derek. He was easily one of the deepest and most fantastically written characters I have seen in a while.

Sing Me to Sleep is set to be released March 4, 2010