Pilgrims Don't Wear Pink [Paperback]

Libby is totally in her own element. We're talking historical costumes, cooking over an actual fire, living on a historical site, needlepoint, hot shirtless guys, costume balls, flower pressing, gardening....did I mention hot shirtless guys?

Pilgrims Don't Wear Pink is all about a fun loving fashionista who is interning at Camden Harbor, which is where she will be "living" history to tourist, and be in charge of a day camp for young girls who get to see what it was like to live back in the 1700's. For Libby, an unlikely historian buff, it's a dream job come true! But what could make her internship even better? How about a hunk who quotes Shakespeare, brings her flowers, and expertly sweeps her off her feet! Cameron definitely has the looks, the rakish smile, and, apparently, enough Mr. Darcy in him to be put on a pedestal in Libby's mind. But things take a definite turn when a young journalist petitions the museum to let him live on a supposedly haunted boat, the Lettie Mae, to uncover the real story. Knowing it would be great publicity, they agree...but unfortunately for Libby someone has to stay with the arrogant, nerdy, know-it-all, Garrett. Sparks fly when they have to bunk together, and not always good ones. But little does Libby realize her expectations of Mr. Right just might be in the form of a sci-fi loving, fashion killing, cargo shorts wearing, journalistic nerd intent on finding a ghost she believes doesn't really need to be found.

Pilgrims Don't Wear Pink literally had me laughing non-stop. I adored all the characters, even the snotty ones toward the end, and couldn't help but love the history behind it all. Libby's character was a carbon copy of Elle Woods in Legally Blonde, in my opinion, who had a heart of gold, a passion for what she did, and a flare for fashion. She bemoaned the loss of her makeup, and cute clothing, but ended up loving the life of a woman living in the 1700's. The plot was very see through, as you know the ending right before you start, but the journey of getting to the end was so deliciously funny that you don't even mind. Pilgrims Don't Wear Pink is perfect for those who want a light read, filled with laughter, historical insight, a light romance, and a happy ending!

I cannot sing this book's praises enough! I enjoyed every word of it. From hilarious Dev to intelligent, pink-loving, Libby, this author has such wit!

While the book is aimed at young adult readers, adults will enjoy it just as much. Stephanie Kate Strohm includes numerous pop culture references and small jokes that will make any adult chuckle. Pre-teens and teens will enjoy the love story and might even learn a bit about late 18th century history :)

This is a quick read that I highly recommend (even for adults!). It will keep you entertained until the very end. Stephanie Kate Strohm is an incredible first-time author. Her wit is unparalleled in the young adult genre and I can't wait to see what she comes out with next!

Pilgrims Don't Wear Pink by Stephanie Kate Strohm follows Libby who has a summer internship at Camden Harbor, Maine's Oldest Living History Museum running the camp for girls (in period costume). Her summer is filled with evil co-workers, handsome boys, cute kids and a ghostly mystery.

This is a delightfully fun chic lit romance. The type of book that makes you smile. Libby is a smart and confident girl who isn't afraid to be different. Cam and Garret the two men in her life are both equally charming (at times) and seem like real people. The only negative is that the book is rather short (around 200 pages) however that is a plus for reluctant readers or readers who want a quick read.

Appropriateness: There is quite a bit of drunken behavior by one of the side characters. The alcohol is used to make him appear to be a bad person. Libby takes a beer at one point, drinks a sip as to not cause a scene (complains about it) and then trades it for rootbeer. The romances are limited to kissing and are sweet and funny. While the book feels mature enough for older readers (with characters that seem like older high schoolers) it is appropriate for the middle school audience. I recommend this book to readers 12+