You Have Seven Messages by Stewart Lewis

A year ago, Luna's mother was hit and killed by a taxi, and she's been grappling with the loss ever since. One day she visits her mother's studio and discovers her mother's phone, still plugged into its charger. On it, she finds seven unheard messages. Luna starts listening to them, and in doing so, discovers things she never knew about her mother and her parents' relationship. And throughout her investigation for the truth about the events the night her mother died and closure, Luna grows up and begins testing her own boundaries.

Stewart Lewis has written an engaging coming of age novel with a great concept. Luna's discovery of the phone is like recovering a lost piece of her mother that she never got to know, and everything she learns forces her to grow up quickly. Her voice sounds as if it should belong to someone older than fifteen years old despite her immaturity at the beginning of the novel. As the plot meanders along, she is introduced to her parents' world of fame, secrets, and the issues that come up with them. Luna is a refreshingly grounded narrator for the daughter of a famous director and model, though the book does get a little self indulgent when certain celebrities begin popping up throughout the book. Luna's romance with Oliver, the boy next door under extreme pressure from his own parents, is sweet and real for a first love portrayal, though Oliver's excuses for their relationship issues come across as a bit flimsy. However, readers will respond positively to the happy ending for the young couple. You Have Seven Messages is a good, quiet novel about one girl's pursuit for truth in life, love, and second chances, and a nice first book for Lewis. Keep an eye on this author.

Cover Comments: I adore this cover! The light and the big, huge open windows are gorgeous. I also love the way she is looking out--it fits the tone of the book very well.

Review copy provided by publisher.