Part One, p. 1 - 18 Summary

This third novel in the popular "Gossip Girl" series focuses primarily on the romantic relationships of wealthy Blair Waldorf and her circle of friends and acquaintances. As Blair struggles to find the balance between preparing for her academic future and finding happiness in her romantic present her best friend, her ex-boyfriend, and her new step-brother all find themselves caught up in similarly unexpected, complicated relationships. Thematic questions considered include searching for fulfilment, the role of sexuality in relationships, and the importance of being oneself.

"Hey People" - Gossip Girl chats excitedly about the flurry of activities in her upper class circle as Christmas approaches. She identifies the people in question only by their initials - D and V are together after resisting their mutual attraction for a long time, N is doing unexpectedly romantic things for J...