Painted Moon

Like another reviewer said, this book is actually the third one as far as plot chronology goes. However, the book is essential in showing us more of the characters and their lives. In Painted Moon we see that Bleu is having more than a little trouble trying to get to sleep. Her friends are more than willing to help her with suggestions, but it's Erin's suggestion that really shocked her: masturbation. When the group is shocked to discover that Blue (and also Victor) have never "taken things into hand", they emphasise that they both should try it. While Victor's attempts weren't as successful, Bleu's attempt succeeds in not only getting her to sleep but also introducing her to a whole new world: BOYS. (Before that she'd liked guys, but she'd never felt the frustration that many of her school mates went through.) As a result of her new blossoming sexuality, Bleu decides that she's finally going to do something she's always wanted to do, and that's confess to Mr. Griffin! Also in this book the tension (not the good type) rises as Erin continues to attempt to steal Alan's affections, culminating in an ending that shocks all of the characters. The series has always been a bit on the edge, so it's surprising that some people have had a problem with this volume. (In previous volumes the characters have discussed sex to a minor degree, as well as had some quasi-adult situations.) Parents may worry, but the book is still appropriate for your teenager. Clugston-Major's work may push the envelope from time to time, but never very far. My only complaint is that the next volume isn't coming out fast enough!

I love Chynna's work and am addicted to blue monday but this title is actually a prequal to inbetween days and just furthers the tension between clover and victor. Its not essential but still a good read.