A Pretty Implausible Premise

Southern California high school senior and competitive swimmer Hattie, whose mother left the family when Hattie was six, has been haunted by the memory of seven-year-old Elijah Johnston, who recently drowned while Hattie was lifeguarding. Now, she gets panic attacks when she attempts to swim, making her feel that her Olympic aspirations are forfeit, as is her belief that stardom will lure her mother back to her. Meanwhile, Canadian transplant Presley, a decorated figure skater, grieves his twin who died in the car crash that also left Presley with career-ending injuries. When Hattie and Presley meet, he recognizes Hattie’s “haunted shimmer,” and the two immediately fit together with “an almost audible click.” Romantic feelings flourish as they bond over their shared losses and feelings of guilt, and as wildfires threaten their town. Rivers (You Are the Everything) organically pulls off the improbable premise of love conquering all; lightly speculative elements, smart attention to each minute detail, and Hattie and Presley’s convincing character arcs proffer an at once melancholy and joyful romance. Main characters read as white. Ages 12–up. Agent: Jennifer Laughran, Andrea Brown Literary. (Sept.)