New York: Delacorte, 1993. dj. Hardcover first edition - Author's first novel, story of a young woman who was raised in an isolated Mississippi River town, educated in a convent school, and "careens" into adulthood with her marriage to a man 12 years older than her, only to discover that she is losing her individuality and sense of self. Dust jacket praise from Amy Tan (who called it "funny and observant, poignant and wise") and others. 278 pp. ISBN: 0-385-308078.