ABOUT THIS BOOK

Recently acquitted of murder, 17-year-old David has moved to Massachusetts to complete his senior year of high school. His aunt and uncle have offered him shelter--escape from the media's questions and from the uncertain glances of his neighbors and ex-friends.

His attic apartment doesn't feel much like a shelter, though. He sees ghostly shadows at night, his aunt is strangely cold, and his 11-year-old cousin, Lily, is downright hostile. And as Lily's behavior becomes more and more threatening, David can't help but wonder what ugly secrets lurk within the walls of her home.

There's one thing that David knows with certainty. The more he learns about his cousin Lily, the harder it is to avoid thinking about his own past.


REVIEWS

"Teens will find this tautly plotted thriller, rich in complex, finely drawn characters, an absolute page-turner."
--Booklist

"The novel's gothic flavor, compelling minor characters . . . and subtle exploration of guilt and complicity add texture to this tense psychological drama."
--Publishers Weekly, starred

"Readers will be hard pressed to put this book down."
--VOYA, starred


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Nancy Werlin was born and raised in Massachusetts and now lives in South Boston.  Since receiving her bachelor's degree from Yale College, she has worked as a technical writer in the field of computer software.  She was named a Publishers Weekly Flying Start author for her first novel, Are You Alone on Purpose?, which was selected as an ALA Quick Pick.


AWARDS

WINNER 2000 - Maryland Black-Eyed Susan Award
WINNER 2000 - Texas TAYSHAS High School Reading List
WINNER 2001 - New Jersey Garden State Children's Book Award
WINNER 1999 - Edgar Allan Poe Award for Best Juvenile Novel
WINNER 1999 - ALA Quick Pick for Young Adult Reluctant Readers
WINNER 1999 - ALA Best Books for Young Adults