Grit
Author(s): Gillian French

Edgar Award Nominee for Best Young Adult Mystery * A Kirkus Best Book

Raw and moving, this contemporary realistic debut novel will leave readers of E. Lockhart and Gayle Forman breathless as it unflinchingly unfolds the tragic secrets being kept in a small, deceptively idyllic town.

Gorgeously written and helmed by a protagonist with an indelibly fierce heart.” (starred review from Kirkus)

Keen plotting, evocative writing, and dynamic characterization make French a writer to watch. (starred review from Booklist)

Seventeen-year-old Darcy Prentiss has long held the title of town slut. She knows how to have a good time, sure, but she isnt doing anything all the guys havent done. But when youre a girl with a reputation, every little thing that happens seems to keep people whisperingespecially when your ex-best friend goes missing.

But if anyone were to look closer at Darcy, theyd realize theres a lot more going on beneath the surface. Staying out late, hooking up, and telling lies is what Darcy does to forget. Forget about the mysterious disappearance of her friend. Forget about the dark secret she and her cousin Nell share.

Forget about that hazy Fourth of July night. So when someone in town anonymously nominates Darcy to be in the running for Bay Festival Princessa cruel act only someone with a score to settle would makeall of the things that Darcy wants to keep hidden threaten to erupt in ways she wasnt prepared to handleand isnt sure if she can.

Review(s):
Tough yet tender, Grit explores new things about the girl everyone thinks they know.
Touching, funny, and wise, Grit takes you on a journey youll remember long after turning the last page.
Gorgeously written and helmed by a protagonist with an indelibly fierce heart.
Keen plotting, evocative writing, and dynamic characterization make French a writer to watch.
Much like Summers All the Rage and Smiths The Way I Used to Be, this [story] explores the damage of a culture that sees women only in regards to their sexual history and not who they are.
Excellent teen drama. This page-turner will hold the interest of mystery fans.A strong choice for most collections.
Lands an effective punch.
Gripping. Complex but patient plotting and evocative prose elevate this moody coming-of-age novel.

Edgar Allan Poe Award Nominee (Mystery Writers of America)

ISBN:9780062642561