The Romantic: A Novel

When she is nine-years-old Louise Kirks mother disappears leaving a note that reads only--and incorrectly--Louise knows how to work the washing machine. It is not long before a strange couple and their adopted son Abel move in across the street. Louise quickly grows close with the exotic Mrs. Richter but saves her stronger more lasting affections for Mrs. Richters intelligent son. From this childhood friendship evolves a love that will bind Louise and Abel forever and though Abel moves away and Louise matures into adulthood her attachment grows dangerously fiercely fixed.