A radiant debut novel about stumbling through the early years of adulthood—and a love letter to the role models who light the way. Like so many other recent graduates, Dawn West is trying to make her way in New York City. She’s got an ex-boyfriend she can’t quite stop seeing, a roommate who views rent checks and basic hygiene as optional, and a writing career that’s gotten as far as penning an online lawn care advice column.
So when Dawn lands a job tracking down the past winners of
Charm magazine’s “Ten Girls to Watch” contest, she’s thrilled. After all, she’s being paid to interview hundreds of fascinating women: once outstanding college students, they have gone on to become mayors, opera singers, and air force pilots. As Dawn gets to know their life stories, she’ll discover that success, love, and friendship can be found in the most unexpected of places. Most importantly, she’ll learn that while those who came before us can be role models, ultimately, we each have to create our own happy ending.
When Dawn lands a job tracking down the past winners of "Charm" magazine's OTen Girls to WatchO contest, not only is she being paid to interview hundreds of fascinating women, but she's also sharing office space with OSecret Agent Romance, O "Charm"'s resident dating columnist, and he just happens to be giving her butterflies.
"Once you turn the first page, you won't be able to tear yourself away from
Ten Girls to Watch. This is a thoroughly charming, sassy, highly satisfying debut from a writer with a rare gift: She sounds like your best friend, telling a story you don't ever want to end. I adored this book."
—Sarah Pekkanen, author of These Girls "A sparkling novel about how we find our friends, our mentors, and our way in the world."
—Jean Hanff Korelitz, author of Admission and a 1983 Glamour Top Ten College Women
"
Ten Girls to Watch will inspire you to follow your heart and believe in your own dreams, no matter how many challenges or obstacles the universe throws your way. It's a heartwarming story about a gathering of extraordinary women who offer wisdom, warmth and humanity, as well as shoulders broad enough for all of us to stand upon. I can't wait to give this book to my sisters and best girlfriends."
—Nicolle Wallace, New York Times bestselling author of Eighteen Acres