4 Stars for The Real Me by Ann Herrick

"In The Real Me, Ann Herrick delves into the tumultuous feelings of a teenage girl who is unhappy with her appearance. As we follow Mattie through her transformation, we are treated to realistic dialogue and inner thoughts of a teenager. The reader roots for Mattie to be successful with her changes and with her budding romance. Mattie has an awesome friend who helps her along the way, which has you guessing as to who is the right guy for her. The story will keep you guessing until the end!" ~ 4 Stars, Krista, Single Titles Reviews

When Mattie has issues with her weight, she decides to take charge of her life, redo her image, find confidence and maybe even dare to talk to guys. Will a change in lifestyle, a friend, a tormentor, and a dream guy help Mattie discover her real self and find romance along the way?

"…a charming young adult novel about love and identity. Mattie, the first-person narrator, is a spunky heroine who takes charge of her life, makes mistakes, dusts herself off, and tries again. Kevin, her heartthrob, is both believable and appealing. The plot moves quickly with enough twists and turns to keep readers guessing about whether-and with whom-Mattie will find true love …." ~ Debra Stang, eBook Reviews Weekly

"…Ann Herrick delivers a plot that is big on empowerment for the female teen, while exploring the conflicting emotions, uncertainty, and dreams that are prevalent in those "between" years. [She] tells a story about a young woman who has character, a sense of compassion, strong commitment, determination, and understanding beyond her years. We see the questions about ethics, compassion and morality arise and how they are handled. This is a very good portrayal of the teen years, addressing some of the issues that are faced, the challenges and opportunities that can arise, and the choices that are made. Best of all, we watch Mattie bloom before our very eyes and grow into what she calls, "the real me"." ~ Kim Green-Spangler, Womenonwriting.com 

"…a great insight into the insecurities, hopes, dreams, and confusion of being a teenager, and the self-acceptance and realization that not all is how it appears to be at first.  Mattie is self-conscious over her appearance, little realizing that her true beauty has been shining forth all the time – even without the weight loss and haircut.  The new look just gives her the self-confidence to hold her head high and let the “real” Mattie shine forth. She realizes that even guys, and the “popular” kids, have insecurities and fears of their own…I found it to be entertaining, and…I plan on reading more of Ms. Herrick’s books in the future." ~ Teresa Henson, Romance Junkies 


~ Find Ann's titles here