Coming May 20, 2026
As she navigates her strange new town, Birdy collects a pile of secrets… and she’s not the only one hiding things.
2007. Conrad, Maryland is still smarting from its economic collapse thirty years prior, and Birdy Cleary and her family arrive in town nursing wounds of their own. But there’s a miracle on Victoria Street—the Clearys’ new neighbors, the Doppelskis, just founded a microscopic and insular Catholic school, where Birdy reluctantly enrolls. She feels incompatible with her competitively devout classmates, but bonds easily with Dominic, the charming oldest of the Doppelski clan.
Birdy is soon disturbed to find Dominic has a malicious side, but that’s just one of her problems. She’s a devoted friend, but her loyalty sends her down a treacherous path. Then there’s Dominic’s father, whose saintly reputation conceals his devious nature. When Birdy’s deceptions collide with Mr. Doppelski’s, shocking secrets are exposed, and Birdy is left questioning where God is and who really serves him.
Depicting one young woman’s transformation over four years, Birdy Cleary is a gripping, poignant, and darkly humorous coming-of-age story for anyone who has sought truth in the face of hypocrisy, especially millennials who once braved painful youth groups.
Praise for Birdy Cleary
Ms. Busch has an apt simile for every heartbreak and a metaphor for every victory. She writes with a sense of familiarity and immediacy that keeps the pages turning.
Goodreads User
Anyone looking for new characters to love (or hate) who feel so believable that you might have met them at the supermarket (or your youth group retreat), trying to find a bit of hope amid messy situations, or searching for the next great work in the legacy of Lady Bird, Derry Girls, and SNL’s “Christmas Eve Spectacular” should prioritize getting their hands on a copy.
NetGalley User
Sometimes you open a book that feels like it was written just for you. After I started reading Birdy Cleary, it was difficult to put down. This is one of those books when you realize you’re getting close to the end, you want to relish every page.
NetGalley User
Welcome to Cerulean Press.
I'm Catherine.
At Cerulean Press, I write stories that make you laugh, cry, and maybe feel a little scared, but ultimately show you that you are not alone. My characters confront messy questions, pluck humor from chaos, and step into their strengths. Their adventures will keep you thinking and guessing, and my book club packets will help you connect with others through tasty food and lively conversations.
Writing and exercise work together to keep me sane, so when I'm not scribbling or typing, you can find me working out at the gym, outside, or in my living room. Otherwise, I'm reading, hanging out with my family, or dabbling in a minor hobby. Watch this site for book club materials and other fun extras, and subscribe to my newsletter for sneak peeks, publishing updates and thoughts on the writing and fitness life.
