What could be more compelling than wealthy American teens in an exotic setting like Paris? You will recognize people you know in each of these characters.

The story is told from four different viewpoints. There is PJ, who has family problems back home and hopes to keep her dark past a secret. Olivia thought she had her life all planned and under control...all she has to do is keep to the plan, but then the romance of Paris intervenes.  Alex is a rich girl who only seems to have everything...wait until you meet her mother.  Zack realizes that he is gay and ready to meet a guy for a relationship, but he is so shy that it isn't easy.  How do you meet someone in a foreign land?

The fast action keeps you guessing and entranced.  The characters are easily visualized and mostly likable, but they all certainly have their flaws. This book takes place during the first semester of a year-long study abroad experience, and I can't wait to catch up on the teens’ further adventures in the planned sequel.

Lucy Silag is a freelance writer, and Beautiful Americans is her first novel.  She has mastered the art of characterization and plot in this exciting story that will no doubt join—or even surpass—the bestselling ranks of Gossip Girl and The Clique.