Edgewater

What initially presents itself as a poor-little-rich-girl pastiche and Grey Gardens homage undergoes a rapid metamorphosis into the elegantly tangled tapestry of Lorrie Hollander’s unusual existence. Lorrie is used to the finest things in life, thanks to a trust fund set up by a mother who left Lorrie and her sister with their aunt Gigi more than a decade ago. Accustomed to being the caretaker of the family, 17-year-old Lorrie returns home from her summer riding camp when the money apparently runs out. Faced with Gigi’s evasiveness and increasing demonstration of mental illness, a sister who cares more about animals than herself, and a huge family home lying in ruins, Lorrie tries to save them all while hiding the depth of the problem from the exclusive enclave of Idlewild. Meanwhile, the son of a powerful political family has taken an interest in her, and the feeling is mutual. With powerful messages of family and self-reliance, Sheinmel’s (Sincerely) coming-of-age tale captivates with its masterful storytelling style and intricate detail. Ages 14–up. Agent: Laura Dail, Laura Dail Literary Agency. (Sept.)