Ever since he joined the prestigious Seacoast high school, Kale Rogers has had to endure a lot of bullying for his dwarfism. He gets friends, but unfortunately he has to bear with their selfishness because he has no one else. Gradually, he becomes a victim-turned-villain at his school and gets into various fights with the other guys who mocks him. After a certain event that made him known as a criminal in his school, Kale gets ignored by most of his classmates and feels left out.
That is, until eleventh grade.
The entry of Rose Bilton into his life changes him for the better. A person with determination and personality, Rose attracts Kale with her charming smile and mentoring. She changes his personality to the old Kale again, but not before making him realise that he can defend himself without being ruthless. That he isn't a monster.
Join Rose's and Kale's journey as they venture into a friendship that turns into a one-sided love - something that never really fades away.
~Third place winner in White Paradise contest 2025, best blurb~
~Third place winner in Khat mini awards 2025, best blurb
So who will it be for this hopelessly unromantic girl? The brooding best friend? Or the young and unquestionably attractive substitute teacher?
They say every person is worth the potential heartbreak of relationships not working out. That's why people still take that leap. But not me. Never been kissed, never had a boyfriend-I was pretty convinced by now that I was one of those mega-rare exceptions to the rule; the unlucky sap was just not worth the risk.
And I'm totally fine with that. Romance and heartbreak? Not worth the hype in my book.
Until life decided to get all snarky on me. "Fooled you, idiot! You'll get your love story...just not at all how you wanted it."
Before I know it, I'm swept up in romantic turmoil more dramatic than anything my wildest playwright fantasies could dream up. Getting these very real, very adult feelings for the first time is bloomin' confusing.
Lines will blur, tough choices will be made, and hearts will be deliciously broken.
So who will it be for this once-hopelessly unromantic girl? My brooding best friend? Or my young substitute teacher?