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 WeeklyEleven-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 BookClubA witty and talented author with a knack for creating unforgettable characters. —Zane Ford creates unpretentious, gritty masterpieces. —Upscale