The Distance Between Lost and Found

A youth group retreat turns into a test of physical and spiritual endurance for Hallelujah and two other teens. Tension is already brewing at the Hiking with Him camp before the three hikers get lost in the woods. Luke, the minister’s son, has told a lie about Hallelujah, trashing her reputation and costing her friends. Hallelujah has a hard time trusting anyone now, even new acquaintance Rachel, who has made friendly overtures. After Rachel, Hallelujah, and her former friend Jonah are separated from the others in the Smoky Mountains, lies, snubs, and grudges pale in comparison to the immediate concern of not being able to find a way back to civilization. In this absorbing debut, Holmes—as well versed in survival tactics as she is in the teenage psyche—delivers plenty of excitement as her characters confront dehydration, starvation, and hypothermia, and nurse wounds caused by accidents off the trail. While eventful, the novel remains reflective in nature, showing Hallelujah’s emotional growth as she considers the past, copes with the present, and bonds with her companions. Ages 13–up. Agent: Alyssa Eisner Henkin, Trident Media Group. (Feb.)