Points to the reviewer who said Cyd Charisse (the narrator) sounds just like (blech) Juno. Since CC's life continues in the second of the series, I'll continue my perceptions in my review of Shrimp. Given the circumstances, I'm not sure if others would fare so well. Personally, I find this book takes a lot of tough situations, dumps them on CC and forces her to cope. In Gingerbread, CC grows up but doesn't have all the answers. Life is truly crazy and confusing for CC. She's also confused about her feelings toward her half-brother and half-sister born to her mom and step-dad. She has a dad who has ignored her most of her life and a half-brother and a half-sister whom she's never met until she goes to spend time with her biological dad. CC's mom and step-dad are much better people than the way CC portrays them - but a lot of teens have difficulty seeing the positives of their parents and highlight the negatives. He is likable with plenty of his own struggles. Her boyfriend Shrimp is truly an interesting character. CC is a flawed character but she most definitely can and is lovable. (She has an abortion at age fifteen) I think it's good to ruffle feathers. She goes through many painful experiences, some that are bound to get under peoples' skins and rattle them deeply.

There are lots of good reasons for these perceptions, some of which are her fault, but most are circumstances beyond her control. But I actually see her as a deeply wounded young girl trying way too hard to be grown up and unsure of herself and confused about the love that is clearly in front of her.

I could see that perception, because at times that's how she comes across on the surface. Other reviewers mention that the main character Cyd Charisse is a whiny, obnoxious, spoiled brat.

I really wanted to read more by both authors. Instead, I got this novel from the library after reading Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan. I'm glad I read Gingerbread without reading other Goodread reviews first.

Gingerbread by Rachel Cohn