With this novel, Carolyn MacCullough has written a nearly flawless story. The plot is succinct, and the alternating chapters of past and present keeps the story interesting, as more details are revealed about seventeen-year-old Ginny’s situation. At the beginning we know only that Ginny is grieving over the loss of her boyfriend Aidan, and that the two had shared an intense relationship. The few characters are easy to keep track of and MacCullough’s descriptions of them provided just enough information to allow their portraits to appear in my mind as I read. MacCullough’s writing remains tight throughout the book, offering sharp, stimulating descriptions and clear, realistic dialogue. Her portrayal of the jagged healing process following a tragic loss is compelling. This is a stunning first novel, and I look forward to reading more of MacCullough’s work in the future. ( )