Description: Here are the events that make up a life: a junior-high-school fashion crisis, a best friend's betrayal, substance abuse, recovery, finding a satisfying career, dating fiascos, the perfect relationship, the illness and slow death of a parent. This is the life of Charlotte Anne Byers, told by Elizabeth Crane, whose debut, 'When the Messenger Is Hot', has been praised across the country for its humor and grace.

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Reviewed by Gail Cooke