The Scarred Letter
About this ebook
Heather’s scoop about steroid use by key players on the school football team sets off an investigation that strips the Orchard Valley Thunderbolts of their state title—and earns Heather a coveted journalism prize. Hated by those involved in the scandal, despised by jealous members of the newspaper staff, ignored by her newly-popular ex-boyfriend, and even berated by her mother, Heather is attacked and a chilling “T” is carved into her face.
Now stigmatized as a traitor, she becomes the object of scorn for nearly all of Orchard Valley High. But when the school offers to send her to a private academy to hush up the matter, Heather is forced to make a decision. Should she refuse to allow fear to control her life by holding to the truth, or accept the chance to escape and build a new life?
Written by a veteran English teacher, "The Scarred Letter" weaves themes from Nathaniel Hawthorne’s "The Scarlet Letter" into an accessible, intelligent tale of modern isolation and a young woman’s quest for truth and acceptance.
“Authentic reboot of Nathaniel Hawthorne’s "The Scarlet Letter" for today’s readers. Heather Primm publishes the truth on her blog and pays an appalling price. It’s up to Heather’s younger sister to remind her what’s true and what’s not—and help her find a way forward. A powerful book.” — Adele Abbot, author, "Of Machines & Magics" and "Postponing Armageddon"
“High school becomes the perfect substitute for Hawthorne’s Puritan society in this accessible take on "The Scarlet Letter." Surrounded by ruthless cliques and wannabe outsiders, Heather finds out just how hard standing up for yourself and your beliefs can be. A powerful message for readers of all ages.” — Sheri S. Levy, author, "Seven Days to Goodbye"
About the author
High school English teacher by day, Val Muller spends her days analyzing literature—and spends her nights writing it. She pens tales in multiple genres and has been writing since first grade. She is the author of the children’s mystery series Corgi Capers, the horror novel Faulkner’s Apprentice, and dozens of short stories and essays with more forthcoming. She lives with her husband Eric in Virginia and is owned by two corgis, Leia and Yoda. You can learn more at Val Muller’s website, www.valmuller.com, her Facebook page, or on Twitter.