A Southern coming-of-age. . ..Ford's Shreveport is an unforgiving place—swampy, seductive and judgmental—that's reflected in her blunt but intoxicating prose. —Publishers Weekly
Eleven-year-old Blaze James and her twin sister, Aerial, know two things beyond a doubt. They're two of the prettiest girls in Shreveport, Louisiana, and they'll always be there for each other. Then one night, a gas explosion leaves their father dead and Aerial severely burned, changing their lives forever.
While Aerial goes with their mother to Baton Rouge for treatment, Blaze stays behind with a neighbor. Free-spirited and unconventional, Felicity Hardaway opens Blaze's eyes to a whole new world, inspiring her to explore her own budding desires. . .and the answers she finds will bring passion, betrayal, and a love beyond expectations.
"A southern-set, fast-moving coming-of-age tale with the immediacy of informal storytelling and intimate conversation somewhat like Alice Walker's The Color Purple. . ..A riveting tale of aching love, deceit, and shifting points on the continuum of human sexuality." —Booklist
"A startling, provocative novel. . ..A story that is as unexpected as it is entertaining." —APOOO BookClub
"A witty and talented author with a knack for creating unforgettable characters." —Zane
"Ford creates unpretentious, gritty masterpieces." —Upscale
