Maiden Cove

Alan White's longtime, tomboy nemesis, Barbara Jean, introduces him to her new friend James. The two boys strike up a strong friendship, and they range out on the ocean on many lobster-fishing adventures in James' flat-bottomed boat. A unique triangular bond develops between Alan, James, and Barbara Jean as they transition from Middle School to High school. Alan, as the narrator, struggles to hide the sexual secret he shares with Barbara Jean while maintaining his strong friendship with James who becomes her steady boyfriend. The ocean, lobster fishing, and the cove's gleaming sandy stretch of beach host the larger stage of the story, while the secrets are tucked behind the walls of cellars, patios, and in the blind faith of friends. The truth forces its way into the open air on their last night together on the beach at the end of summer resulting violently in the loss of innocence and trust, and ultimately in a tragic death.