Laura Acampora's "The Paper Wasp" is a mesmerizing debut novel that plunges readers into the complex and twisted friendship of two women against the glitzy backdrop of contemporary Hollywood.
Set in small-town Michigan, the story follows Abby Graven, a former promising art student now trudging through life as a supermarket cashier. Abby's obsession with her childhood friend Elise, now a Hollywood star, is palpable as she scrapbooks Elise's glamorous life while drawing fantastical storyboards inspired by her prophetic dreams.
When Elise unexpectedly re-enters Abby's life, the dormant spark within Abby reignites. The novel skillfully navigates the blurred lines between friendship, ambition, and secrets as Abby becomes entangled in Elise's world. Acampora beautifully captures the loneliness beneath Elise's glossy exterior, creating a gripping narrative that keeps you hooked until the very end.
Set in small-town Michigan, the story follows Abby Graven, a former promising art student now trudging through life as a supermarket cashier. Abby's obsession with her childhood friend Elise, now a Hollywood star, is palpable as she scrapbooks Elise's glamorous life while drawing fantastical storyboards inspired by her prophetic dreams.
When Elise unexpectedly re-enters Abby's life, the dormant spark within Abby reignites. The novel skillfully navigates the blurred lines between friendship, ambition, and secrets as Abby becomes entangled in Elise's world. Acampora beautifully captures the loneliness beneath Elise's glossy exterior, creating a gripping narrative that keeps you hooked until the very end.