Interference, written by Kay Homeyman, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: This book is a modern retelling of Jane Austen’s Emma. Kate Hamilton and her family are leaving Washington DC and moving to a small town in Texas. Kate’s father is a politician who is involved in a political scandal. Kate believes she is part of the scandal because of pictures her ex-boyfriend posted of her on the internet. Once they get to Texas, Kate realizes that her dad has plans to start over a bit by winning a small town election. She has to make friends, behave in school, apply to good colleges and keep herself out of trouble so that nothing affects her family’s political ambitions. Kate meets Anna Gomez, who quickly becomes a good friend. Sparks fly between Kate and Hunter, who did not meet under ideal circumstances.

Straight Talk for Librarians: This is an ideal read for political junkies. It is less of a romance and more of seeing the inner workings of the political world. Honeyman focuses on the political ambition of Kate’s father and how he has to work the system. But he does honestly want to help his community and the people in it. He went into politics for the right reasons. The story does not revolve around a particular political party. It touches on family values, farm bill arguments, community, crossing party lines and compromise. There is, however, a storyline between Hunter and Kate that readers will enjoy. This book is a great realistic fiction pick for independent reading and possible as extra credit for a government class.