When First Daughter Abby is banished from the White House, she dives into a summer of surprises, small-town magic, and sparks with the boy who shakes up her world in this swoony, patriotic romance—just in time for America’s 250th anniversary!
Red, white, and youAbigail Cary-Alzona, eldest daughter of President Constance Alzona, just wanted one normal night as a teenager. But after an impulsive pizza order later makes her front-page news, Abby is officially exiled to a Wi-Fi-free country inn for the summer, along with her little sister, Elle.
The inn belongs to Gabriel Calabrese’s family. Gabriel is sarcastic, camera-obsessed, and definitely not dazzled by presidential perks (also, kind of the reason for the whole pizza fiasco). But Abby’s determined to make the most of her time away from the White House—with a summer bucket list full of things real teens get to do. Pool parties. Picnics. Maybe even a first kiss.
As she and Elle dive into small-town life, Abby starts to see what makes Gabriel tick. And maybe, just maybe, she’s falling for him. . . .
On sale: May 12, 2026
Age: 12 and up
Grade: Grade 7 & Up
Page count: 320 Pages
ISBN: 9798217029730
Reading level: Lexile: 710L
As a former wedding planner who works in government relations, Celeste brings her love of romance and public service to her stories. She’s an active member of SCBWI and was a semi-finalist on the pilot episode of
America’s Next Great Author. Celeste, like most of her main characters, is proudly Filipino American.
Stars, Stripes & Summer Nights is her debut young adult novel.
"Dador’s YA debut is a cozy romance that thoughtfully explores community, familial expectations, and living for oneself.
A charming summer romance full of fireworks and sweet moments." —
Kirkus Reviews
"
A romance that will fly off the shelves and a good choice for readers not yet ready for the steamy stuff." —
School Library Journal
"Dador’s
wholesome tale of love, family, and responsibility will resonate with middle- and high-schoolers who long to forge their own path." —
Booklist
