First published 2026
Characters grapple with personal crises while searching for genuine connection in their daily lives. Applegate's protagonists face family tensions, relationship struggles, and unexpected challenges that test their ability to find hope. The author uses her entertainment industry background to create realistic dialogue and authentic character moments. People discover humor in difficult circumstances and forge meaningful bonds despite their individual hardships. The story weaves together contemporary struggles with surprising instances of human warmth. Applegate transforms her performer's understanding of comedy and drama into a narrative about maintaining dignity through adversity. Her characters confront real problems while preserving their essential humanity. This debut fiction captures the contradictions of modern existence through people who refuse to surrender their capacity for joy.
Genres: fiction, drama, literary-fiction, contemporary
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: found-family, maintaining-dignity
Audiobook · Hachette Audio