Melissa Keil is one of the most talented romantic comedy writers for young adults today. We are delighted that her three stunning YA novels have been re-released with gorgeous new covers for a new generation of readers to discover. She recently visited our Teen Advisory Board and below is what they had to say.

'Her books read like a love letter to Melbourne, and you will find yourself falling in love with both the story and the city!’ — Aalia Rashid

'Melissa Keil’s phenomenal knack for capturing the ups and downs of teenagehood has sprouted three insightful, sprightly YA romantic comedies. With distinctive and lovable characters, enthralling narratives, witty dialogue and bewitching romance, Keil’s novels are gems of the Australian Young Adult genre.’ — Ione Rawlings-Way

'The Secret Science of Magic is a sweet book that would be a great read for any fans of romantic comedy. With an intriguing journey and perfect ending, it will surely delight anyone reading it.’ — Stella Quon

The Secret Science of Magic by Melissa Keil

Joshua - a magic-loving nerd - has a huge crush on Sophia. She's an actual genius, especially when it comes to maths, but finds relationships much trickier to decipher. She tells herself she doesn't have time for one, anyway; her life plan revolves around finishing year twelve and, after that, university.

But, as she and Joshua get to know each other, Sophia can't help wondering: what if there's more to life than academics? And what if there are more pluses than minuses in taking a risk?

Now, Sophia's faced with a problem no amount of studying can solve: what's the formula for balancing life and love?

‘The Incredible Adventures of Cinnamon Girl is a light-hearted, witty rom-com perfect for any teenager. I loved the bubbly cast of characters and the quintessential Aussie town they live in.’ — Charlotte Ross

‘Melissa Keil’s YA novels capture an authentic teen voice with well-developed characters and feel-good endings. These charming rom-coms always have surprising plot elements. My favourite is The Incredible Adventures of Cinnamon Girl. Where else would the end of the world be coupled with comics and a bakery and still make complete sense?’ — Poppy Holden

The Incredible Adventures of Cinnamon Girl by Melissa Keil

Alba’s life is nothing like the comics she draws – there aren’t any evil villains or radioactive spiders. But Alba’s not complaining. All she needs is her sketchbook, her home behind a bakery and her best friend, Grady. There’s just one small issue – the world might be ending.

As Alba’s hometown gets overrun by Doomsday enthusiasts, her life is thrown into chaos. Her best friend is acting far weirder than usual, the guy she thought long gone has unexpectedly reappeared and inspiration for her comic has hit rock bottom.

With the end of the world drawing near, Alba knows it’s time to stop being the sidekick in her own story. But as it turns out, Armageddon is the least of her problems …

'Melissa Keil’s Life in Outer Space is a tender and honest celebration of pop culture, love, and youth’s power to connect with one another.’ — Alina Ivanova

‘Life in Outer Space is just pretty awesome! The book centres on a group of nerdy high-school kids in present-day Melbourne, with fully realised characters doing their best to navigate school, friendships, and, hopefully, love. There are genuine laugh-out-loud moments, as well as more poignant scenes with room to breathe. Melissa Keil writes simple concepts perfectly. She’s brilliant, and she deserves so much more love!’ — Olivia Campbell

Life in Outer Space by Melissa Keil

Sam Kinnison is a geek, and he’s fine with that. He loves horror movies, hanging out with his nerdy friends and playing World of Warcraft – and until Princess Leia turns up in his bedroom, he doesn’t have to worry about girls.

Then Sam meets Camilla. She’s beautiful, friendly and completely irrelevant to his life. So Sam is determined to ignore her, except that Camilla has a life of her own – and she’s decided he’s going to be part of it ...

Boy meets girl. Boy tries to lose girl. Or does he?