The Girl Who Wasn't: An Arnhurst Novel

A touching coming-of-age story about how far we’re willing to go to find a lasting friendship.
Jeanette’s life currently revolves around caring for her agoraphobic and hoarder mother, all while dreaming of attending university for a musical theater course. When her mother’s illness worsens, she finds solace in a new friendship, but there’s one problem: the friendship started with a lie after she created a fake profile under the name of Marcia.
Jack seems to have it all together, but his home life is anything but perfect. His mother is violent towards his father and, because of her own career as a professional tennis player, she doesn’t want Jack to pursue his love of music, but instead, college football. Jack’s one comfort is Marcia, but when he finds out the truth, he is not sure what or who to believe.
Attempting to escape their own problems, Jeanette and Jack lean on a new-found friendship and learn that not everyone is who they seem to be.
“A heartfelt, charming coming-of-age story with a strong message.” — Kirkus Reviews on The Boy Who Lived in The Ceiling.