THE LIPSTICK LAWS by Amy Holder

THE LIPSTICK LAWS by Amy Holder

YA - Paperback, 240 pages

Published March 17, 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt 

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At Penford High School, Britney Taylor is the queen bee. She dates whomever she likes, rules over her inner circle of friends like Genghis Khan, and can ruin anyone's life with a snap of perfectly manicured fingers. Just ask the unfortunate few who have crossed her. For April Bowers, Britney is also the answer to her prayers. April is so unpopular, kids don't even know she exists. But one lunch spent at Britney's table, and April is basking in the glow of popularity. But Britney's friendship comes with a high price tag. How much is April willing to pay?

THE LIPSTICK LAWS is Mean Girls and Heathers, with a touch of Clueless.

April Bowers is a bra-stuffing, invisible loser, until head lawmaker, Britney Taylor, mistakes her for being a new student (hello, major invisibility!) and invites her to sit at the cool table. April keeps quiet about not being new to the school, and becomes a member of the elite. When April is kicked out of the Britney’s group for breaking a “The Lipstick Laws,” she wants revenge and forms her own group out of other former members called the Lipstick Lawbreakers.

THE LIPSTICK LAWS would be a good read for younger teens. The issues faced (like trying to fit in, low self-esteem) are understandable for the age group, while any real development of romantic relationships (which older readers may prefer) is kept to a minimum. At heart, this is a story about a girl trying to fit in and make friends. The mean girls vs. nice girls, and pulling pranks aspect keeps the story moving along and delivers some funny moments.

Thanks to Houghton Mifflin Harcourt & NetGalley for providing me with a digital copy for review.