Best friends forever

I was given the audiobook version of Firefly Lane by Kristin Hannah to review for a library magazine.  I am never sure what I will get to review and most often it has been things I would not have chosen to listen to on my own.  I enjoyed Firefly Lane, the reader was good, and the story kept my attention for the most part.  It was a little too long (where are those  all-important editors these days?) but it was a fun nostalgic trip through the decades, with lots of style and cultural reminders (songs, clothes, hairstyles,  etc).

Firefly Lane is the story of Katie Mularkey and Tully Hart, who become friends in 8th grade in the 70's.  Katie has a normal loving family, while Tully has a neglectful and drug addicted mother.  As an adult, Katie has a stable marriage and is a stay-at-home mother.  And Tully is a wealthy and glamorous talk show host, but with no lasting relationships or friendships besides those with Katie's family.  She can and does appropriate members of that family as needed, especially Katie's daugher Marah.

This book is one that might be called a beach read.  It is entertaining and does a good job of focusing on the importance of family and friendships.  Unfortunately, Hannah could not avoid the tragic, tear-jerker ending.  Although it is very sad, it also seemed a bit manipulative.  I undestood her reasons for this ending a little more after I heard her afterword and Kristin Hannah has many fans who will not be disappointed by her latest book.