Marlena: Julie Buntin’s debut novel is a haunting coming-of-age story about a teenage girl named Cat who forms an intense friendship with Marlena, a wild and troubled girl in a rural Michigan town. As Cat becomes increasingly drawn into Marlena’s world of drugs, alcohol, and reckless behavior, their friendship spirals toward a tragic end that will haunt Cat for years to come.
The novel is a poignant exploration of the impact of friendship, the pain of loss, and the lasting effects of adolescence. Buntin’s lyrical prose and vivid characterization create a powerful narrative about the complexities of growing up and the memories that shape us.
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