My Twice-Written Governor General's Nominee

“There are rules for what I’ve done.  

Specific punishments for 

crimes against friendship.”

Laren Olivier knows the rules, but her attraction to a friend’s ex-boyfriend is strong.  She tells herself that if only they can keep their romance a secret, no one will get hurt.  But Laren is not the only one with something to hide.

Thus begins a year long journey through secrets, lies, exposures and betrayals.  Somehow, Laren must find a way to reconcile who she is with what she’s done.  At the same time, she finds herself struggling with a discovery so shocking it rocks the very foundation of her world.  

This, my 21st published book, was written twice.  The first version was prose, but, I was not entirely satisfied with the voice.  Eventually, and with the blessing of my longsuffering editor, Christie Harkin, I tackled it again, only this time in a free verse format.  

I would like to acknowledge, with sincere thanks, the support of Canada Council, which made it possible for me to complete this project. 

Reviews and Awards!

Shortlisted for the 2013 Governor General's Awards in the Children's Text category.

Shortlisted for the 2013 - 2014 Red Maple Award
Shortlisted for the 2014-2015 Snow Willow Award

Winner of the 2013 Word Guild Award in the Juvenile Category
Horn Book Outstanding Selection 
OLA Best Bets 2013: Young Adult Fiction

Review: CM Magazine

Review: CanLit for Little Canadians

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