South of Broad by Pat Conroy

Pat Conroy, author of Prince of Tides, has turned out a wonderful novel that is well worth the long wait. South of Broad is a beautifully written, moving story of friendship and love. Set in Charleston, it tells the story of a teen-aged boy and the high school friendships that changed his life. The prose is so lovely, I could have have enjoyed the book simply for the fine writing. Happily, the characters are also interesting and, well, characters. The vivid descriptions of Charleston make me want to visit there. Savor this book.