Scarlett Fever Maureen Johnson

Scarlett Fever by Maureen Johnson

This is the second book in the Suite Scarlett. I was really looking forward to reading this one and my expectations were high. I was not disappointed. Scarlett Fever continues where Suite Scarlett left off. Johnson wrote this follow up in such a way, that it can still be enjoyed without having read the first one. Though I highly recommend starting from the beginning. Its too good to miss.

Scarlett's family, the Martins own and run The Hopewell hotel in Manhattan. Summer is over, and its the end of Hamlet production starring Scarlett's big brother Spencer that was staged in the hotel. Scarlett's friends will be returning from their summer travels. The Martins may own a Hotel but they are not rich or even well to do, more like keeping their heads above water. (at least they don't have to worry about temporary lay offs)

Scarlett is doing her best to get over Eric, an actor who worked with Spencer. Her days are filled with school and her new job assisting Mrs. Amberson, a former Hopewell guest turned agent. Scarlett's life gets complicated when 15 yr old Chelsea becomes Mrs. Amberson second client, thanks to her brother Max.

I love the rhythm of Johnson's writing, it follows its own beat. There is much going on with Scarlett's family but it never seems like too much. I enjoy the fact that this is Scarlett's story but Johnson includes the whole family. There are for Martin children. Spencer, Lola, Scarlett and Marlene. Johnson takes the time to develop all of the siblings and explore all of the relationships.

From the beginning it's clear that Martin's don't have much money. Usually, YA novels especially those set in New York, the characters don't worry about money. So Scarlett's concern about having the finances to hang out with her friends and paying for college, was a very nice realistic inclusion. Ages 13up

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