Stephen Emond, author of the critically acclaimed “Happyface,” creates the joys and troubles of teenage romance and finding oneself in his second book “WinterTown” which features original illustrations by Emond.

Most people see Evan Owens as the basic overachiever with high goals for the future. In reality, he has no idea what he wants to do. Babied by his mother and constantly pressured by his father, Evan finds a confidant in his best friend, Lucy Brown. Evan and Lucy are inseparable. They have been best friends since they were little. After Lucy’s parents’ divorce, Lucy moves with her mother to Georgia but visits Evan every year during the Christmas break. The last break during his senior year, Evan realizes that he has developed strong romantic feelings for Lucy.

To his dismay, Lucy is no longer the same Lucy. This Lucy is the opposite of the Lucy he has known, and Evan must break through her shell of bad habits and dark secrets to see if if the real Lucy is still there, all the while trying to find himself.

“WinterTown” is a story like no other. It features unforgettable characters whom readers will adore and illustrations and side comics that further the storyline even more. Honest, creative and straightforward, “WinterTown” is a book that readers will enjoy reading more than once.

“WinterTown” is recommended for older teens due to language and some suggestive themes.