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Ruth Anne Acheson · Mar 19, 2026

Of Makeovers, Misunderstandings, and Prince Charming

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Ruth Anne Acheson · Ruth Anne Acheson

Cover from pepperdbasham.com; image created in Microsoft PowerPoint.

“But after recognizing my feelings and seeing him as Knightley (shallow, I know, but seriously), I don’t think I can go back.”

The Cinderella Plot, Pepper Basham

When I heard that Pepper Basham was writing a YA novel, I was thrilled. And when I got to read said YA novel, my excitement knew no bounds—because Pepper Basham’s signature humor, romance, and sparkle spill over beautifully into the YA genre, even if the romance is less rings and kissing and more wearing Regency costumes for the girl you love.

Paisley Harper has always been a wallflower, a bookish girl sporting glasses and cozy cardigans instead of trendy clothing and designer shoes. Her hair is curly and wild, she totes books (plural) around school in her backpack, and she’s only interesting to the popular boys as a tutor for Lit class.

But with Homecoming coming up, and no eligible males in sight (except for Chris Benson, who is a friend and nothing more), Paisley’s starting to feel not enough. After all, the hot football star won’t ask an invisible book girl to Homecoming.

What’s a girl to do?

Image created in Microsoft PowerPoint.

When Paisley discovers a book that might change her life, she dives in headfirst—and she doesn’t realize what’s happening to her friendships and herself until it’s too late. Chris is worried she’s changing, but there’s a college-aged guy interested in her. Molly is supportive but concerned.

And Paisley?

Well, Paisley isn’t sure of who she is anymore.

The Cinderella Plot on Amazon

If you’re looking for a clean YA read with humor, heart, misunderstanding, and redemption (along with enough book and movie references to keep any nerd happy), look no further. Pepper Basham’s The Cinderella Plot is a delightful read, whether you’re a book girl (like me) or you love the outdoors and adventures.

Happy book birthday to Pepper Basham and The Cinderella Plot!! 🎉

Read the original on ruthanneacheson.substack.com

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