Free Audiobook : Firefly Lane, by Kristin Hannah

In the tumultuous summer of 1974, Kate Mularkey has resigned herself to her status at the base of the eighth-grade social hierarchy. Then, to her astonishment, the epitome of cool, Tully Hart, moves in across the street and seeks her friendship. Tully possesses beauty, intellect, and ambition. On the surface, they couldn't be more different: Kate, predictably uncool, with a family that embarrasses her at every opportunity. Tully, shrouded in allure and enigma, yet carrying a devastating secret. They swear to be best friends for life; by the end of summer, they're known as TullyandKate. Inseparable.

Thus commences Kristin Hannah's remarkable novel. Spanning over three decades, set against the backdrop of the ever-evolving Pacific Northwest, Firefly Lane narrates the touching, potent tale of two women whose friendship becomes the cornerstone of their existence.

From the outset, Tully yearns to validate her worth to the world. Abandoned by her mother in her youth, she seeks unconditional love. In the glamorous, big-hair 1980s, she turns to men to fill her emotional gaps. However, in the conservative 1990s, her passion shifts to television news. She chases her lofty aspirations to New York and beyond, achieving fame and success...yet feeling profoundly alone.

Kate understands early on that her life won't be exceptional. Throughout college, she feigns ambition, but her true desire is to fall in love, have children, and lead a simple life. In her subtle manner, Kate is as determined as Tully. She doesn't anticipate how being a wife and mother will alter her...how she'll lose her former self, her old dreams, and how she'll envy her celebrated friend.

For three decades, Tully and Kate support each other through the trials of friendship - envy, anger, pain, and resentment. They believe they've endured everything until one act of betrayal shatters their bond...testing their courage and friendship to its limits.

Firefly Lane is for anyone who reminisces about sipping Boone's Farm apple wine to Abba or Fleetwood Mac tunes. Beyond a coming-of-age story, it captures the essence of a generation of women who were both blessed and cursed by their choices. It's about pledges, secrets, and betrayals. And ultimately, about the one person who truly understands you - who knows what can hurt you...and heal you. Firefly Lane is a narrative you'll cherish...one you'll want to share with your best friend.