Back to You

Scully (Inseparable) mixes romance and mystery in this bittersweet tale of two old friends whose lives have taken different paths. Alex Buchanan, a New York City journalist, learns his estranged father is dying and returns to the small Canadian town where he was raised. This leads to a reunion with Benji Morning, a friend he hasn’t seen since the age of 13. Ben is an art teacher and out of the closet, and Alex has become confident enough in his bisexuality that he can admit to himself that he’s long been attracted to his friend. Alex is shocked to learn that Ben’s sister, Misty—thought to be a runaway when he and Ben last saw each other—has been missing for more than 20 years. After a new clue about Misty arises, Alex is faced with a hard realization that could affect his newfound romance with Ben. The romantic thread seems like an afterthought, but the author’s deft plotting and prose, skillful uses of red herrings, and strong character development will keep most readers from minding too much. (June)