Love Will Keep Us Together

In this fourth and final book in Dayton and Vanderbilt's Miracle Girls series, Riley and her three best friends, who have each been the subject of one of the previous books, experience a senior year filled with decision-making, in which they explore questions of friendship and faith. While doors have always opened for Riley, she feels stifled by her "Super Girl" label and by expectations from her parents and community that she's headed for the Ivy League. Unsure she's ready to leave home, and anxious to protect her autistic brother from the unkindness of ignorant classmates, Riley seeks support from ex-boyfriend, Tom, despite her friends' misgivings and her growing affection for Ben, from youth group. Trusted authority figures—a favorite teacher, parents, church leaders—disappoint with their seemingly misguided attempts to help Riley and her friends face issues like teen pregnancy, financial worries, and struggles over how to help loved ones. Growing awareness that adults also need guidance, combined with trust in love's constancy, finally give Riley courage to follow a nontraditional calling in this genuine story about growing up and choosing what's right. Ages 12–up. (Apr.)