Sydney has always felt invisible*. She’s grown accustomed to* her brother, Peyton, being the focus of the family’s attention and, lately, concern. Peyton is handsome and charismatic*, but seems bent on self-destruction. Now, after a drunk-driving accident that crippled* a boy, Peyton’s serving some serious jail time, and Sydney is on her own, questioning her place in the family and the world.

    Sydney’s parents, especially her mom, become very controlling of Sydney. They also see Peyton as a victim and even act as if Peyton is away at school, not in jail.

    Sydney begins to live outside her brother’s shadow. She’s at a school where no one knows her brother’s past and she has friends that like hanging out* with her. Sydney has her flaws*, but she’s the girl that will always do the right thing and will always be there for her friends.

    Then she meets the Chatham family. Drawn into their warm, chaotic circle, Sydney experiences unquestioning acceptance for the first time. There’s lively Layla, who often falls for the wrong guy, Rosie, who’s had her own fall from grace, and Mrs. Chatham, who even though ailing is the heart of the family. But it’s with older brother Mac — quiet, watchful, and protective — that Sydney finally feels seen, really seen, at last.

    This is Sarah Dessen’s deepest and most psychologically probing novel yet, telling a great story of a girl discovering friendship, love, and herself.(SD-Agencies)