The Nobodies

Book excerpt: The story of two young women whose friendship offered—and demanded—more than either should share. For fans of Sally Rooney and Claire North. “Sometimes I wondered if I imagined it,” said Nina. “But deep down I knew I didn’t.” Jess said, “We did too much damage for it not to be real.” Jess and Nina, Nina and Jess ... to everyone else they’re typical best friends, sharing closeness and confidences in their own little world. But Nina and Jess have a secret. Simply by touching their foreheads together, they can swap bodies. In Jess’s assertive persona, self-conscious Nina turns bolder, free to say what she’s frightened to voice on her own. Inhabiting Nina, Jess becomes part of the loving, stable family she craves. Now, in crisis after her father’s death, Jess has reentered Nina’s life following a long separation. Once again they switch bodies, and their worlds begin to mesh. Each deceives the other, confesses, is forgiven. But how deeply can you sink into another’s life before there’s nothing left of you? Set against the vibrant backdrop of New York City, The Nobodies poses questions about the nature of intimacy, the many flavors of betrayal, and the value of female friendships.