The Nerdy and the Dirty

A cool girl—with an X-rated internal life—and a socially inept guy prove that opposites attract in this honest look at love, sexuality, and becoming your true self, in this edgy YA novel by B.T. Gottfred.

Penelope "Pen" Lupo is sick and tired of being fake—not fake in a mean girl way, but in a way that hides who she really is. On the outside, Pen is popular, quiet, and deferential to her boyfriend. On the inside, however, Pen is honest, opinionated—and not quite sure that she's like other girls. Do they have urges like she does?

His classmates may consider him a nerd, but Benedict Pendleton knows he's destined for great things. All he has to do is find a worthy girlfriend, and his social station will be secured. Sure, Benedict is different—but that's what he likes about himself.

When fate intervenes, both Pen and Benedict end up at the same vacation resort for winter break. Despite their differences, the two are drawn together. But is there such a thing as happily ever after for a nympho and a nerd?

A unique take on first love suitable for both young adult and adult readers

Praise for The Nerdy and the Dirty:

"A truly beautiful story about passionately falling in love with another and learning to love and share your true self." —Kirkus Reviews, starred review

"This is a love story that is genuine, explicit, passionate, and often adorable." —Booklist, starred review

"A hilarious and deeply honest look at high school love.... Gottfred creates addictive, true-to-life voices for both characters." —Publishers Weekly, starred review

"Completely sweet and poignant. It has everything to do with the sincerity and authenticity of the characters." —VOYA, starred review

"Readers will cheer as these two endearing, unique, and believably voiced characters learn to finally be real—with themselves, with each other, and with the world." —The Horn Book