Suite Scarlett by Maureen Johnson

Scarlett Martin has grown up in a most unusual way. Her family own the Hopewell, a small Art Deco hotel in the heart of New York City. When each of the Martins turns fifteen, they are expected to take care of a suite. For Scarlett's fifteenth birthday, she gets both a room called the Empire Suite and a permanent guest named Mrs. Amberson. Scarlett doesn't quite know what to make of this C-list starlet and world traveler. And when she meets Eric, an astonishingly gorgeous actor who has just moved to the city, her summer takes a second unexpected turn. Before the summer is over, Scarlett will have to survive a whirlwind of thievery and romantic missteps. But in the city where anything can happen, she might be able to pull it off. (Taken from back cover)

I loved Suite Scarlett! I think it was one of the best books I've read in awhile. The characters were extremely likable, especially Scarlett and her older brother Spencer. And speaking of Spencer, he is hilarious! Every other word that came out of his mouth was some funny, sarcastic remark. The only character I didn't really like was Marlene, Scarlett's incredibly spoiled younger sister. But Marlene comes around, which is good. I like character development. What I also like was the originality of the story. First, Scarlett lives in a hotel, which is probably the coolest thing ever. And then I loved the theater and acting subplot, especially since Spencer and his acting troupe were putting on the play Hamlet. I'm so glad that I had to read that in tenth grade because it seems to be very popular for contemporary literature (see also: Eyes Like Stars). I also liked that the romance wasn't predictable, and turned out differently than I imagined. So if you're looking for a cute, witty, and unique book, Suite Scarlett is a perfect choice!

9 out of 10.