Step into the vibrant world of the Carter House Girls, where six teenage girls navigate the highs and lows of adolescence in a charming 19th-century boarding house! Penned by Melody Carlson, this Young Adult Christian fiction series blends faith, fashion, and friendship, offering a heartfelt look at growing up with a touch of drama and spiritual growth.
Across eight novels, readers follow the lives of DJ and her housemates as they tackle love, identity, and the pressures of high school under the guidance of a retired ’60s fashion icon, Katherine Carter. It’s a story that captures the messiness of teenage life with a hopeful, faith-driven lens, perfect for readers craving relatable characters and meaningful themes.
How Carter House Girls Began
Melody Carlson, a prolific author with over 200 books, launched the Carter House Girls series in 2008, inspired by her knack for crafting authentic teen voices. Drawing from her own experiences and her work with young adults through organizations like Young Life, Carlson created a series that blends contemporary issues with Christian values. The idea of a boarding house run by a glamorous ex-model allowed her to explore diverse personalities and the clashes that spark growth, setting the stage for a unique YA narrative.
The Heart of Carter House Girls
The series kicks off with Mixed Bags, where tomboy DJ moves in with her grandmother, Katherine Carter, after her mother’s death. Expecting a house full of fashion-obsessed snobs, DJ is surprised as the girls—Rhiannon, Taylor, Eliza, Kriti, and Casey—form bonds through dating, drama, and shared secrets. Stealing Bradford, the second book, dives into romance and rivalry when Taylor pursues Rhiannon’s boyfriend, teaching lessons about forgiveness and family. New York Debut sees the girls modeling at Fashion Week, grappling with peer pressure and personal struggles like eating disorders. Finally, The Last Dance wraps up with prom and graduation, tying up loose ends as friendships deepen or fray.
Themes of faith, identity, and resilience shine throughout, woven seamlessly into stories of teenage angst and growth. Carlson tackles real issues—underage drinking, body image, and relationship boundaries—with a Christian worldview, making the series both relatable and uplifting. The setting, a stylish Victorian house, adds a cozy yet glamorous backdrop, while the girls’ diverse backgrounds keep the drama fresh and engaging.
Why Carter House Girls Resonates
The Carter House Girls series stands out for its ability to balance fun, fashion-forward plots with deeper spiritual insights, resonating with teen readers and parents alike. Fans praise its authentic characters and Carlson’s knack for addressing tough topics without preaching, making it a go-to for those seeking “edgy” Christian YA fiction. Its focus on sisterhood and self-discovery has left a lasting mark, inspiring readers to reflect on their own values and relationships.
- Publication Years: 2008–2010
- Number of Books: 8
- Genre: Young Adult Christian Fiction
- Author: Melody Carlson
A Timeless Journey Awaits
Grab Mixed Bags and dive into the Carter House Girls’ world of faith, friendship, and fabulous drama! Whether you’re a teen or just young at heart, this series promises a heartfelt adventure you won’t forget.