I didn't plan it this way, but Amanda Panitch's book, DAMAGE DONE, was having its release date whilst I was in the States, and I was determined to track down a copy. Amanda and I have been critique partners/beta readers for several years (we met on the Absolute Write forum), and I am beyond thrilled she's a published author now. I couldn't make it to Amanda's launch party on 21st July, which was held at Books of Wonder in New York, but I went to the Florida Mall that day to see if I could find the book out in the wild. Now, there were about 250 stores there, but could I find a bookstore? Nope (major disappointment, but my suitcase and the weight allowance for the flight home were probably thankful!).
Luckily, I already had my signed copy winging its way to me, and DAMAGE DONE arrived a couple of days after I returned home - yay!
Here's the blurb about the book:
22 minutes separate Julia Vann's before and after.
Before: Julia had a twin brother, a boyfriend, and a best friend.
After: She has a new identity, a new hometown, and memories of those twenty-two minutes that refuse to come into focus. At least, that's what she tells the police.
Now that she's Lucy Black, she's able to begin again. And her fresh start has attracted the attention of one of the hottest guys in school, a boy who will do anything to protect her. But when someone much more dangerous also takes notice, Lucy's forced to confront the dark secrets she thought were safely left behind.
One thing is clear: The damage done can never be erased. It's only just beginning. . . .
Sounds deliciously page-turning, right? It is! Go buy a copy and see for yourself (you might even spot my name in the acknowledgements page!). :o)
