Two boys. One drunken decision. A summer that changes everything.

Fresh out of high school in Lost Plains, Wisconsin (population: 8,463 and shrinking), Benny Sladowski and Izzy Martino are supposed to have their futures figured out. College applications. Career paths. The American Dream, Wisconsin Edition.

Instead, they have a week at a Mexican resort—a graduation gift from well-meaning parents.

After too many margaritas and a chance encounter with an opportunistic resort manager, they make the kind of decision that only seems brilliant when you're drunk: forget college, forget home, forget playing it safe. They're going to spend their summer as Paradise Cove activity directors.

Never mind that they don't speak Spanish. Never mind that Benny's idea of adventure is alphabetizing his video game collection. Never mind that their parents will absolutely lose their minds.

What follows is a hilarious journey of self-discovery involving:

• Competitive water aerobics grandmothers who show no mercy

• A mystical coconut tree that may hold the secret to confidence

• Catastrophic foam parties and questionable tacos

• Romance with guests (forbidden), staff (complicated), and locals (requires Google Translate)

• The realization that sometimes the best life plan is no plan at all

"Paradise Pending" is a laugh-out-loud coming-of-age story about friendship, finding yourself, and discovering that paradise isn't a place you visit—it's a life you choose to create.

Perfect for fans of beach reads with heart, anyone who's ever dreamed of running away to somewhere tropical, or readers who understand that the best adventures usually start with the worst decisions.

"When's the next time you'll get to read something this crazy?"
Editorial Reviews
"A fresh, funny take on the gap year novel that captures both the terror and exhilaration of choosing your own path."

"Equal parts hilarious and heartfelt, this book made me want to quit my job and apply at the nearest beach resort."