Changing My Wardrobe

By Deb Hanrahan

Lindsey's first day of high school is her big chance to start over. With the help of her best friend Teeny, she begins her transformation by changing her wardrobe. But her longtime nemesis Avery likes things just the way they are and sabotages Lindsey at every turn. As the school year progresses, lines are drawn, sides are picked, and war ensues. The escalating drama eventually leads to a tragic event that will alter the teens' lives forever...especially Lindsey's.

CHANGING MY WARDROBE is a tragic high school drama about starting over, fitting in, and discovering the truth about what really matters. It's a story about friendship, first love, and soul-crushing loss. It's a story about a person's choices, good and bad, and the unexpected, far-reaching consequences of those choices.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Deb Hanrahan
• Release date: May 18, 2011
• ISBN: 9780983526629

Deb Hanrahan

Dearest Reader,  Thank you so much for checking out my profile. As you may have noticed, I like to write in different genres. I currently have three YA books and three Women's Fiction/Romance books published. I initially published the latter under the pen name Daphne Hargrow. But as you already know, life gets busy, so I thought it best to merge the two names. After a long break, I am back at it. I plan to have LSC: Hester out this summer and a new romance titled The Stars Awaken out by Christmas.  - Deb Hanrahan

Book preview

Changing My Wardrobe

By Deb Hanrahan

Philyra Publishing

Changing My Wardrobe

Lindsey’s first day of high school is her big chance to start over. With the help of her best friend, Teeny, she begins her transformation by changing her wardrobe. But her longtime nemesis, Avery, likes things just the way they are and sabotages Lindsey at every turn. As the school year progresses, lines are drawn; sides are picked, and war ensues. The escalating drama eventually leads to a tragic event that will alter the teens’ lives forever…especially Lindsey’s.

Changing My Wardrobe is a tragic high school drama about starting over, fitting in, and discovering the truth about what really matters. It's a story about friendship, first love, and soul-crushing loss. It's a story about a person's choices, good and bad, and the unexpected and far-reaching consequences of those choices.

Chapter One—Garanimals

A PASTEL MOUNTAIN of discarded clothing lay on the floor. This was it, the last combination. I held my breath as I approached the full-length mirror, hoping for the best. But when I looked at my reflection, I cringed. Lilac cargo shorts and a peach T-shirt with the word Smile across the chest wasn’t going to cut it. What was I going to do? Tomorrow was my first day of high school, and I wasn’t ready. I had absolutely nothing to wear. I glanced out my window. The sun was setting; I was almost out of time. Why had I put this off until the last minute?

That’s it? Teeny lounged on my bed with her chin resting on her fists and her long legs dangling over the edge. Her crazy blonde hair was pulled back into a loose ponytail. Wispy tendrils framed her sun-kissed cheeks. Please tell me you have more.

Everything I own is in that pile.

Yikes. That’s not good, Lindsey. This is your chance to start over. You can be a completely different person than you were in junior high. You don’t have to be such a prude, and you don’t have to be so matchy. Teeny jumped up from my bed and grabbed an outfit from the top of the pile. She pulled a ruffled white skirt up over her shorts and pressed a flouncy pink top up to her chest. When she looked into the mirror, her face twisted. You sure this isn’t Maggie’s?

Very funny. I jerked the top out of her hands and threw it at her face.

Teeny blocked my assault, and the offending article of clothing fell to the floor. Seriously, do you want my advice or not? First, you need to stop being such a stereotype. Everyone in junior high thought you were…well…a dork.

I twinge of pain shot through my heart. It was one thing to hear your enemies say it, but another to hear your best friend repeat it.

Seeing the look on my face, Teeny backpedaled. "I never thought you were a dork. You’re just a perfectionist. And since you’re into your grades and all—"

What’s wrong with that? I like being smart. I hated to admit it, but Teeny was right. After years of wearing ruffles, bows, and polka dots, I had earned a reputation as a goody two-shoes. And when I threw in straight As, I became a complete loser.

Like it or not, people judge you based on your appearance. Trust me. If you want to change the way everyone else sees you, you have to change the way you look. No one would ever think I was a dork, and that definitely has something to do with the way I dress.

I could never pull off the outrageous outfits you wear. As I peered into her crystal blue eyes, I saw nothing but confidence.

Outrageous! Pff. She waved her hand in front of her face. I’d prefer to think of my look as unique. No one expects you to look like me. I wouldn’t want you to look like me. Just loosen up a little, Linds. You try too hard, and it turns people off. I want everyone to see you like I see you. You don’t want a repeat of the junior high social scene, do you?

Don’t remind me. Too late. Avery’s greatest hits rushed to the front of my brain. I don’t think I could stand another four years of abuse.

You were an easy target for those dumb bitches. They could say anything to you, and you’d take it. You need to show Avery you’ve changed. With a new look, you’ll feel more confident, and maybe you’ll be able to stand up to her.

What if it doesn’t work?

Then at least she won’t be able to make fun of your clothes anymore.

I hope you’re right. Teeny’s logic made sense to a point. If I wanted my life to be better, I needed to make some changes, and high school was the perfect place for me to start. But was a makeover the answer? Changing my life couldn’t be as easy as changing my wardrobe, could it? After all, my face, my body, and my personality would be the same. Avery would still recognize me; she would still see me as the little mouse.

Teeny stepped out of the skirt and picked up an old pair of flared jeans from the floor. Linds, cut the legs off these just above the knees and then roll them up a few times. Wear a T-shirt—not that one—and a pair of flats. That’ll look cool enough. Whatever you do, don’t wear any of your Garanimals.

Garanimals… I shook my head and laughed.

I should get going. I still need to pick out an outfit for tomorrow. What time are you getting up? she asked as she walked toward the door.

Six-thirty?

Make it six; that’s when I’m getting up. I’m going to need a full hour, and if you want to do this right, so will you. Your makeup has to be perfect, but it has to be natural too. Oh, and don’t forget to straighten your hair.

Yeah, fine, six o’clock. I don’t think I’ll need an hour, but whatever. I’ll meet you and Grouper at seven fifteen on the corner. Thanks for your help.

That night I didn’t sleep at all. I was terrified about starting high school. I desperately wanted it to be better than junior high. Since I didn’t know how to make that happen, I was pinning all my hopes on Teeny’s advice. To that end, I planned to do everything she suggested, including waking up a half-hour before I wanted to wake up.

When my alarm went off at six, I ignored my exhaustion and dutifully crawled out of bed. I followed Teeny’s instructions and wore the cutoffs and an old Journey T-shirt I found in the attic. Then I put on some makeup and straightened my hair. Lucky for me, I had a new pair of red polka-dot flats. They were so cute. Teeny would probably approve.

Before I went downstairs, I glanced in the mirror. Big mistake. I was not happy. Then again, I was never really happy with the way I looked. I only ever liked my long, wavy hair. But now that I had straightened it, I didn’t like anything. Nothing matched; I looked like a hobo. So much for that confidence boost. I was tempted to go back to my old look, but Teeny’s voice echoed in my brain. So I quickly walked away from the mirror and tried not to think about clothes.

As I gathered my school supplies, my stomach rumbled with waves of nausea. I had to force myself to eat something; lunch wasn’t until fifth period. So, I plodded down the stairs and into the kitchen. Mom stood over the stove still wearing her pajamas. Judging by the spatula in her hand, she was cooking chocolate chip pancakes for my eleven-year-old sister, Maggie.

Maggie appeared to be feeling more confident about her first day of school than I was feeling about mine. Wearing sparkly silver Converse, orange jean shorts, and a pink Winnie-the-Pooh T-shirt, she sat at the table waiting for her breakfast. Her cheeks puffed and her eyes bulged. She looked as if she were about to explode with excitement. People said we looked alike, but I didn’t see it. I had reddish brown hair; she had brownish blonde. I had hazel eyes; she had blue. I was short and straight; she was tall and curvy. Sometimes people even thought she was older than I was.

That’s a bold move for your first day of junior high, Mags. I sat down across from her.

Shut up, Linds! I love Winnie-the-Pooh. Everyone knows that. She caressed Winnie’s image as if he had heard my comment.

I’m just sayin—

Lindsey, are you wearing my old T-shirt? I had hoped Mom wouldn’t notice. It looks so cute on you. I used to love Journey. I wish it still fit me. Apparently, mom used to be thin like me, but over the years, she had gained a few pounds. She wasn’t fat, just a little plump. I didn’t mind. With the extra cushioning, she gave great hugs.

But her hugs weren’t going to help me today. I feel like I’m going to puke.

Oh, I know, Lindsey. Mom placed a plate of steaming pancakes on the table and then wrapped her free arm around my neck. Don’t worry, honey; everything will be fine. I have a good feeling. This is going to be your year—your time to shine.

Geez, Mom. I wiggled out of her grasp. Sometimes, she said the dumbest things.

Do you need a ride to school? Dad’s going to drop your sister off. She’s so excited about starting Maple. Aren’t you Maggie?

Junior high is hell on earth, I grabbed a pancake and took a small bite.

I heard that. Mom… whined Maggie as she drowned her breakfast in syrup.

Lindsey, use a fork please and don’t bring your sister down. Just because you hated junior high doesn’t mean Maggie will hate it too. Besides, she doesn’t an Avery in her grade like you do.

I wish I didn’t have an Avery in my grade. I let my pancake fall onto my plate. There was no way I’d be able to choke that back.

Don’t worry, honey. Mom tried again by placing her hand on my shoulder. High school is a big place. I bet you won’t even see her in the halls.

I can only hope. I gave in and didn’t push her away. I wish I had Teeny or Grouper in one of my classes.

Do you need Dad to give you a ride to school or not? she asked again.

"No thanks, I can walk. The school is only a mile away."

All right, but don’t forget to bring your phone. Please call me if there’s any trouble.

I’m sure my walk will be drama-free.

Can you at least send me a text when you get to school?

"I guess so.

Chapter Two—Fresh Start

WHEN I ARRIVED at the corner, Teeny and her twin brother, Grouper, were waiting for me. Even though they weren’t identical, they shared similar features. They were both lanky with wild blond hair, and they both had blue eyes with a glint of silver. They also shared an undeniable presence. Brimming with self-esteem, they were both comfortable in their own skin. So naturally, the people who knew them liked them. Sometimes, I wondered why they liked me.

That morning, Teeny outdid herself. She looked like a tall, thin Gypsy wearing layers of colorful fabric and a ton of jewelry. Her hair was piled on her head with a multicolored scarf woven through it. Her style was effortless. Grouper, on the other hand, looked the same as he always did. He wore a black band T-shirt and a pair of baggy jeans. Even though he didn’t share his sister’s fashion sense, he was still adorable.

Teeny let out a high-pitched squeal when she saw me. Eee…Lindsey, I can’t believe it! You actually took my advice. You look awesome!

Thanks, Teeny. I’m not so sure about how I look, but I feel comfy.

Grouper started to sing Wheel in the Sky. But after belting out the refrain, he fumbled one of the verses. So he switched to Don’t Stop Believin’ and butchered that song too. I tried not to laugh as he did his best Steve Perry impersonation.

We get it, Grouper; she’s wearing a Journey T-shirt. Teeny rolled her eyes. So Linds, are those the only flats you own?

Yeah, why?

Um, no reason. Teeny turned her face away so I couldn’t see her expression.

They’re new, I said. My mom bought them for me. I think they’re kind of cute, but I’m already getting blisters on my heels.

You can go barefoot, said Grouper. That’s what I’d do.

I hate to break it to you, Linds, but going barefoot might be better than wearing those. Teeny scrunched her nose. Although, you might violate some health codes.

Not the shoes too. I like these. They’re not that bad, are they? I had thought she would have approved of these. Well, I’m not going barefoot. I bet the nurse will have a couple of Band-Aids. By the way, you look really pretty, Teeny.

Yeah, Teeny, that’s a great Halloween costume. Grouper elbowed me as he always did when he teased his sister. But you’re two months early.

Shut up, loser. At least I don’t wear the same thing every day. When was the last time you washed that shirt anyway? Teeny looked at me and smiled seemingly satisfied with her comeback. I often wondered whether they bickered all the time or saved their performances for me. It sometimes seemed like they were trying to see who could get a reaction out of me first.

As we walked, I noticed several numbers written on the back of Teeny’s hand. What’s that?

My locker combination. Teeny held her hand up. I’m having trouble memorizing it.

I wrote mine in my assignment notebook, I said.

What if you lose it? Someone would have access to your locker then, Teeny said.

Oh, I didn’t think of that, I said. I guess I’ll have to memorize it.

There were tons of other kids walking toward the high school. Some I recognized, but almost all of them were strangers to me. I was hoping I’d have all my classes with the strangers. Except for Teeny and Grouper, I wasn’t friends with anyone from my junior high. And I certainly wasn’t going to get a fresh start with the old gang talking about my past dorkiness.

I was so focused on the other people I barely noticed crossing over the creek that divided our side of Riverview from the rich side. Maple Middle School was on our side of the creek, which made it easy for me not to think about social class when I was younger. But Riverview High was on the wealthy side. So for the next four years, I would have to walk past these

Reviews for Changing My Wardrobe

[tanat-1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Changing My Wardrobe by Deb Hanrahan

This is Deb Hanrahan first novel, I enjoyed her writing, and the plot was great, loved the characters and never once put the book down. This is a tragic story and one I would say ever high school youth should read. Deb Hanrahan has written a story of a young woman who just wanted to fit in and make her high school years better then what she dealt with in middle school.

We meet Lindsey who is a smart young woman, who maybe in middle school didn’t have the best fashion sense but received good grades. Teeny her best friend who has always been there for no matter what she wore. The first day of high school is the next day and Lindsey wants to make a fresh start. Teeny is right there to help her. Lindsey meets Marco on the first day of school and he is cute and seems to like Lindsey. Then we get to meet Avery the one who tormented Lindsey all through middle school and to make matters worse Avery has a boyfriend named Cal who is just as mean .......

Put all these great character’s together and you end up with a fantastic read. This story makes you feel and remember what high school was like good and bad.

Deb Hanrahan has written a terrific/realistic novel and the ending shocked me to my core.

I have to give Changing My Wardrobe 4 stars; the writing was great, the issue of bullying is so important, All Young Adults and parents should read this novel to remember and to keep your eyes open.

Fantastic Read!

[alwaysyaatheart · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I was really surprised by Changing My Wardrobe, and I mean that in a good way. I read the blurb for the book and thought it looked very interesting, but then I wasn't sure, because I don't usually read too many sad stories. However, the importance of the message in the blurb was one that I couldn't pass by. When I first started reading the book, I thought well this is going to be a good book for tweens and teens - young girl starting her first year of high school, wants to change her image because she has been teased in junior high, cool best friend to help her, cute guy likes her and becomes her boyfriend, the mean girl....yeah, I thought, perfect sweet read for teens. It made me think about all the drama that goes on in high school and how I would never want to do that again. Then the story began to intensify. Lindsey and Marco end up at a friend's party, only there are drugs and alcohol there, which leads to a police raid. The bullying takes a much more serious turn, i.e., text messages, pictures, facebook, drugs, and even physical altercations against Teeny, Lindsey's BFF. By the time I reached this point in the book, I now understood what the author meant in the book description. Let me interject at this point that I loved the characters, well except for Avery, but Avery plays her part well. Deb Hanrahan has done an outstanding job writing this story. The message portrayed in this book regarding the different perspectives on bullying is superbly done. The story line and plot are very believable and are written in such a way that preteens and teens can identify with, enjoy, and learn from. It is also great for parents to read, and if you have kids, I would suggest doing that. Let me tell you, Deb Hanrahan isn't kidding when she says this story will leave the reader shocked and heartbroken. I can't elaborate anymore on that without spoiling it, but I will say that I thought about this book for a very long time after I read it. Even though it was heartbreaking, the author has written the ending in such a way that as the reader, you are able to come to terms with what happens much easier and are not left just hanging there. Overall, this is an excellent book and I highly recommend it for all teens and parents.

[dpchapman · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I was amazingly moved when I read Changing My Wardrobe by Deb Hanrahan. This is an honest book about teen bullying and the tragedy that it can do to people.The characters, the plot, even the dialog seemed real. I admire how Ms. Hanrahan showed the not only the victims side but the bully’s side as well.I recommend this book not only to teens but to parents as well. I think parents need to be more aware of what is going on out there and I really think this book can help enlighten them.

[etjada_1 · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

This is an easy to read YA book with a contemporary and at the same time timeless story: can I change, can I fit in when I change my way of dressing? Overall, the story is relatable and applicable to the average teenage life. At times the reading gets a bit slow and repetitive. Often emotions and viewpoints are spelled out rather than letting the reader discover them through his/her own conclusions.The concepts of friendship and rivalry come across quite well. Every character has a story that is not initially visible just by appearance or demeanor. The ending is quite a surprise and breaks with the general flow of action of the plot, and therefore was a bit unbelievable and over the top.