The first book in the Southern Charmed series by Danelle Ellison is titled THE SWEETHEART SHAM and it is a young adult romance novel. This novel is set in the south and has all the southern charm you desire from such a novel. Ellison has squeezed several important themes into this adorable read with the importance of acceptance and forgiving your loved ones being two of the main focuses. However, forgiveness is not given right away nor was it expected as the teens in THE SWEETHEART SHAM are treated like adults.

The characters in THE SWEETHEART SHAM are remarkable and unique with characteristics that standout. Will is afraid to come out to his family and friends. The way Ellison writes about this subject is creative and real, making it feel realistic and honest. The decision was Will's and he was not forced. Having the strength to decide to come out is something that Ellison writes with a loving touch making Will seem strong, not weak.

Georgie is Will's best friend and biggest cheerleader. She supports him no matter what and this helps to keep them both grounded. While Georgie is a true southern belle, she does not let that define her. She is someone everyone looks up to and proved that even though she loves dresses she still will go swimming in her underwear, which does not make her any less of a lady.

THE SWEETHEART SHAM is set in the south making it the perfect background for such a profound read. Ellison's writing really captures what it is like to live in a small southern town where everybody knows everybody else's business. Where secrets are unheard of because gossip spreads like wild fire in a drought zone.

THE SWEETHEART SHAM is a profound and honest read that is sure to stay with you long after reading the last page.