The girl in Times Square A novel

*Starred Review* Ostensibly, this hefty novel is about a missing young woman, Amy; her scattered, then very ill, roommate, Lily; and the detective, Spencer, assigned to the missing-person case. It could also be said to be about Lily's romantic life, her selfish mother, and her money-grubbing sisters. But this gorgeous book is much more than a conventional thriller. It's a family drama that extends from the Holocaust to today; a lesson on the deep love that damaged souls need and are capable of; and a lasting illustration of what's really important in life. Although originally published in Australia in 2004, the book is only now receiving widespread distribution in the U.S. Readers will find Simons' sharp prose and unforgettable characters Spencer and Lily, especially captivating, and librarians will find that the idea of read-alikes for The Girl in Times Square to be almost beside the point. After finishing the novel, readers will only want one thing: more Paullina Simons. Give this one the word of mouth it richly deserves.--Verma, Henrietta Copyright 2017 Booklist