BRIDE ISLAND "Enders is a short story writer whose foray into the novel format makes for a compelling read. Polly Birdswell has worked diligently to separate herself from her alcoholic family and haunting past. She gave up custody of her daughter, Monroe, and moved to coastal Maine in order to get her life together. But Polly's heart belongs to Bride Island, a family retreat off the Maine coast. Its landscape, despite containing only a raggedy old house, invigorates and calms Polly's soul. When her mother decides to sell Bride Island, Polly realizes she must take action and try to claim it. This battle makes Polly move toward regaining custody of Monroe—and regaining trust in and acceptance of herself. From alcoholic families and divorced parenting, all the way to a harrowing family secret, this novel covers a plethora of domestic tribulations. Polly is a truly imperfect person who is trying her hardest to make her life mean something. It's a difficult road and a lovely read. For most fiction collections."    —Beth Gibbs, Library Journal "Enders writes with such bone-deep honesty we know from the opening pages that it is winner take all."    —Jacquelyn Mitchard, author of The Deep End of The Ocean "Bride Island has a freshness and a quiet power that takes you unawares and won't let go. It is taut and moving, quirky, wise, often funny, and finally deeply surprising. Enders' instincts are sure and her powers of observation wickedly acute. In this brave and impressive debut novel, she takes some big risks and finesses all of them."    —Beth Gutcheon, author of More Than You Know and Leeway Cottage "Bride Island is a strong and beautiful book, full of the power and beauty of the Maine coast and the power and beauty of the family. Enders has a compelling voice, a meticulously observant eye and a deep understanding of the world of emotional engagement. This is an impressive debut."    —Roxana Robinson, author of Sweetwater and This is My Daughter