Debut author Rufi Thorpe's focuses her novel on the story of childhood friends Lorrie Ann and Mia, who grow apart after high school. Years later, when Lorrie Ann appears at Mia's house one day, Mia is astonished to find out how her friend's life has gone astray. The novel's themes center on how long-lasting childhood friendships can be, says Nelson. "Even when your lives diverge ... it's a bond that stays really strong," she says.
