Based on a True Story…
Based on a true story, Lindsay Trifling takes us back to the eighties through her life in middle school and high school, with its breakdancing and MTV and how she tried to be a “normal” teenager to forget her past. She buries the truth and pretends to be ok by throwing herself into dance, cheerleading, sleepovers with friends and part time jobs.
However, she gets caught up in relationship after relationship thinking things are fine until she meets Collin her senior year of high school and the trauma rears its ugly head causing her world to come crashing down. Collin is abusive and consumes her life; he keeps Lindsay away from her family and friends. She is terrified and knows she needs to end the relationship but can she find the strength to escape before it’s too late?
Audience
The California Girl is a Young Adult novel of 71,983 words. It is a stand alone novel with potential for a sequel. Its mix of humor and overcoming trauma will appeal to readers of Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman and Good Luck With That by Kristan Higgins.
Reader Age
Reader age – 16-20
Subject Matter
Subject matter – Intense Relationships/Abuse
This book is designed to help young women navigate romantic relationships so that they can avoid falling into unhealthy relationships. Often there is a pattern in abusive relationships. The California Girl teaches young women to recognize these patterns and warning signs through a narrative format.