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In this coming-of-age novel, a white, small-town Kentucky teen uncovers dark secrets while investigating her mother's suspicious death in 1972.In 1972, on Mudas Summers's seventeenth birthday, her beloved Mama, Ella, is found hanging from the rafters of their home. Most people in Peckinpaw, Kentucky, assume that Ella's no-good husband did the deed. Others think Ella grew tired of his abuse and did it herself. Muddy is determined to find out for sure either way, especially once she finds strange papers hidden amongst her mama's possessions. But Peckinpaw keeps its secrets buried deep. Muddy's almost-more-than-friend, Bobby Marshall, knows that better than most. Though he passes for white, one of his ancestors was Frannie Crow, a slave hanged a century ago on nearby Hark Hill Plantation. Adorning the town square is a seat built from Frannie's gallows. A tribute, a relic—and a caution—it's known as Liar's Bench. Now, the answers Muddy seeks soon lead back to Hark Hill, to hatred and corruption that have echoed through the years—and lies she must be brave enough to confront at last.“Glorious… Liar's Bench succeeds on many levels…. Much of any reader's delight will be rooted in savoring the sounds, smells, tastes, and fragrances that enhance her captivating vision of a typical Southern small town during two linked periods of its history.”—Southern Literary Review“This has southern small-town charm… includes recipes and discussion questions and may appeal to those who like Rebecca Wells or Jennifer Chiaverini.”—Booklist“A satisfying mystery with thought-provoking historical elements, written in a sassy Southern voice.”—Historical Novels Review

An emergency homecoming forces three sisters to deal with issues they'd rather ignore in this touching novel by the author of All About Evie. Ever since the Bommarito sisters were little girls, their mother, River, has written them a letter on pink paper when she has something especially important to impart. This time, the message is urgent—River requires open-heart surgery, and Isabelle and her sisters are needed at home to run the family bakery and care for their brother and ailing grandmother. Isabelle has worked hard to leave Trillium River, Oregon, behind as she travels the globe taking award-winning photographs. Still, she and her sisters, Cecilia, an outspoken kindergarten teacher, and Janie, a bestselling author, share a deep, loving bond. And all of them adore their brother, Henry, whose disabilities haven't stopped him from helping at the bakery and bringing good cheer to everyone in town. But going home again forces open the secrets and hurts the Bommaritos would rather keep tightly closed—Isabelle's fleeting relationships, Janie's obsessive compulsive disorder, and Cecilia's plans to get even with her cheating ex-husband. Now, working together, Isabelle and her sisters begin to find answers to questions they never knew existed, unexpected ways to salve their childhood wounds, and the courage to grasp surprising new chances at happiness. As irresistible as one of the Bommaritos'giant cupcakes, Henry's Sisters is a novel about family and forgiveness, mothers and daughters—and gaining the wisdom to look ahead while still holding onto everything that matters most.“This finely pitched family melodrama is balanced with enough gallows humor and idiosyncratic characters to make it positively irresistible.” —Publishers Weekly

No one writes about Italian-American families with the humor, warmth, and heart of Peter Pezzelli. Now, with Francesca's Kitchen, he delivers another winning novel about how much we need the closeness of family--even if we don't know it. Where There's Food, There's Family For years, Francesca Campanile was the queen of her home. Standing in her Rhode Island kitchen, making sauce from sun-ripened tomatoes, dropping in basil from her garden, and adding fresh onion, Francesca dispensed advice as liberally as she did the garlic, arguing nonstop with her son and two daughters. It was wonderful. But now, her children and their children have moved away. And for the widowed Francesca, no longer having a family around to pester, annoy, guide, love, harangue and, of course, cook for, makes her feel useless. Who is she without them? What she needs is another family that needs her, and when she sees Loretta Simmons's ad in the Providence paper for a part-time nanny, she's sure she's found it. All the single mom wants is someone to fill in for a few hours a day. But it's obvious to Francesca that Loretta and her kids need more--a lot more. Loretta's struggling to make ends meet. Every man she brings home is a disaster. And her kids could definitely use some guidance--and a little lasagna, frankly. In these frazzled, disconnected people, Francesca senses a hunger and loneliness as deep as her own. It's time for Francesca to work her magic--if she can--and the best place to start is the kitchen... Funny and moving, with a heroine to adore, Francesca's Kitchen is a delicious story about sharing love, life, advice, and, above all, food. Peter Pezzelli was born and raised in Rhode Island. A graduate of Wesleyan University, he lives with his wife, two children and their dog in Rhode Island where, most days, he is busy at work on his next novel. Every Sunday, however, if he's not riding his bike, you'll find him and his family at the dinner table, enjoying a plate of rabes and sausage, or a nice fritatta, or some other favorite Italian dish cooked up by his wife. Praise for the Novels of Peter Pezzelli Every Sunday'A sweet, brave, and funny novel--with a heart as big as the entire state of Rhode Island.'--Claire Cook, author of Must Love Dogs Home To ItalyA BookSense Pick!'A beautiful novel...Peter Pezzelli captures the warmth of Italy--family, friendships, and food--invites us into the world of his wonderful characters, and takes us full circle on a journey of life and love.'--Luanne Rice, New York Times bestselling author'Bighearted and wise, Home to Italy is a charming ode to the romance of new beginnings and the Italian gusto for life. Peter Pezzelli's tale of a widower who returns to his childhood town in Abruzzo to rebuild his life, only to be struck by the legendary thunderbolt of love, is a continuous delight.'--Louisa Ermelino, author of Joey Dee Gets Wise'With heartwarming touches of humor, Home to Italy reaffirms that life can always be renewed. This is a wonderfully satisfying romance that brings to life the sights, sounds and tastes of Italy.'--Romantic Times'A warmhearted novel, perfect for an autumn evening in front of the fire.'--Litchfield Enquirer

In a summer read rich in depth and heart, acclaimed author Colleen French tells a story of love, motherhood, friendship, and family in a picturesque Delaware beach town... Each year, the start of summer brings bustle and much-needed tourist dollars to the little town of Albany Beach, Delaware. For Natalie Sullivan, this season is proving more stressful than others. It's make-or-break time for the Irish pub her husband, Conor, recently bought with his brothers. Their two children are thriving, but she's experiencing pangs of loss at the end of her childbearing years. When sixteen-year-old McKenzie starts gushing about Bella, the new coworker at her summer job, Natalie suddenly finds her past and present in conflict. Bella, two years older than McKenzie, looks so similar that a customer remarks that they could be sisters. And when Natalie learns that Bella was adopted, she is propelled back into a heartbreaking decision. As a college student, Natalie became pregnant and put her baby up for adoption. Now, the more McKenzie talks about Bella, the more Natalie wonders: could Bella be her daughter? Conor insists it's a mistake to pursue the matter. Natalie's child belongs to another family now; that was the agreement in the closed adoption. Still, Natalie can't resist spending time with Bella. As their bond deepens, McKenzie accuses her mother of caring more for a stranger than for her, and Natalie begins imagining what it would be like to have Bella as a second daughter. What will the impact be if Bella really is her biological child? And if she isn't, can Natalie embrace the joy and potential in her own family, without always wondering about what could have been?

Summer in Maine means breezy, sun-kissed beach days, golden evenings, and, in bestselling author Holly Chamberlin's irresistible novels, a time for self-discovery and surprising connections... Sometimes you sense something, deep inside, long before it's proven true. Thirty-year-old Petra Quirk has always felt as if a vital element of her life is missing. It's not until she moves back to the small town of Eliot's Corner for the summer that she learns why. Rummaging in the attic, Petra comes across a diary. The discovery prompts her mother, Elizabeth, to make a confession to her three daughters. Decades ago, she fell in love with her husband's best friend, Chris—and Petra is Chris's child... Elizabeth ended the affair before she learned she was pregnant, and Chris has no idea he's a father. Hugh, who Petra believed to be her dad, was a good-natured but self-centered, blustering man. He and Chris seemed to have little in common, though their friendship was genuine. Elizabeth loved Chris deeply yet refused to tear her family apart. Even since Hugh's death, she's resisted contacting Chris. But Petra, floundering and unsure of her path, is compelled to search out her biological father, though she knows it will complicate her relationship with her family. Over the course of two summers, decades apart, romance will be kindled and rekindled, life-altering decisions made, and secrets of the heart will come to light at last. Praise for the novels of Holly Chamberlin “A great summer read but with substance. It will find a wide audience in its exploration of sisterhood, family, and loss.” —Library Journal on Summer with My Sisters“Nostalgia over real-life friendships lost and regained pulls readersinto the story.” —USA Today on Summer Friends

“Adair just keeps getting better!”—Jill Shalvis, New York Times bestselling author “Lighthearted and humorous…a sweet, satisfying romance.” —Publishers Weekly A Goodreads Most Anticipated Romance of JanuaryAn Amazon Book Review Highly Anticipated Romantic Comedy & Best of the Month SelectionAn Apple Books Best of the Month Selection A funny and delightful story from the New York Times bestselling author of the St. Helena Vineyard series that fans of Avery Flynn, Kristan Higgins, and Helena Hunting will love.Set against the breezy backdrop of coastal Rhode Island, bestselling author Marina Adair's latest novel asks whether two of a small town's biggest hearts can learn to put themselves first—in the name of love... As caregiver for her autistic brother, Beckett Hayes knows how meaningful a little extra help can be when life happens. Which is why she runs Consider It Done, a personal concierge service in her small town. Her job also gives her the flexibility to follow her passion, being Rome, Rhode Island's unofficial special needs advocate, training emotional support companions in her spare time. There's not much of that, though, and certainly not enough for serious dating. It's always been family first for Beck. But one unquestionably gorgeous, good-natured man is suddenly a temptation that's getting tougher to resist... Sixteen years ago, Levi Rhodes was ready to sail off into the sunset—literally. But then his father's death and his sister's unexpected pregnancy postponed his sailing scholarship and the adventures he had planned. Running the family marina and bar was the least he could do for his grieving mother. Plus, his niece needed a father-figure. But now that she's in high school and has her bio-dad in her life, Levi's wondering if it's time to get his sea legs under him again. Or he was wondering, until curvy, caring Beck showed up in his bar, and then in his dreams... “Charming…Sweet and sensitive, Hopeless Romantic is a funny romance that gently manages heavy issues.” —Shelf AwarenessA portion of royalties to benefit The Organization for Autism Research.Praise for Marina Adair “Small town sweetness, endearing characters and a unique quirky flair.'—Carly Phillips, New York Times bestselling author “Marina Adair is a breath of fresh air.... Don't miss a word from this magnificent author!”—New York Times bestselling author Darynda Jones

“Breathtaking…Riveting and profound! I adored this book!” —Ellen Marie Wiseman, New York Times bestselling author of The Orphan Collector “A deeply involving and important novel by a master storyteller.” —Susan Wiggs, # 1 New York Times bestselling authorINTERNATIONAL BESTSELLERIn this moving, suspenseful debut novel, three courageous women confront the complexities of trust, friendship, motherhood, and betrayal under the rule of a ruthless dictator and his brutal secret police. Former foreign correspondent Gina Wilkinson draws on her own experiences to take readers inside a haunting story of Iraq at the turn of the millennium and the impossible choices faced by families under a deadly regime. A BuzzFeed Most Anticipated Historical Fiction ReleaseA Target Book Club PickA Publishers Marketplace Buzz Books Selection At night, in Huda's fragrant garden, a breeze sweeps in from the desert encircling Baghdad, rustling the leaves of her apricot trees and carrying warning of visitors at her gate. Huda, a secretary at the Australian embassy, lives in fear of the mukhabarat—the secret police who watch and listen for any scrap of information that can be used against America and its allies. They have ordered her to befriend Ally Wilson, the deputy ambassador's wife. Huda has no wish to be an informant, but fears for her teenaged son, who may be forced to join a deadly militia. Nor does she know that Ally has dangerous secrets of her own. Huda's former friend, Rania, enjoyed a privileged upbringing as the daughter of a sheikh. Now her family's wealth is gone, and Rania too is battling to keep her child safe and a roof over their heads. As the women's lives intersect, their hidden pasts spill into the present. Facing possible betrayal at every turn, all three must trust in a fragile, newfound loyalty, even as they discover how much they are willing to sacrifice to protect their families. “Vivid…secrets and lies mingle as easily as the scent of apricot blossoms and nargilah smoke. Wilkinson weaves in the miasma of fear and distrust that characterized Hussein's regime with convincing detail. Richly drawn characters and high-stakes plot.” —Publishers Weekly

With The Neighbor and Pray for the Girl, Joseph Souza proved himself a master of twisty and unpredictable psychological suspense. In this riveting new novel, a mother is unwittingly drawn into the dark underbelly of her picture-perfect Maine town... Shepherd's Bay has been home to generations of lobstermen and their families. Lately, affluent newcomers have been buying up waterfront property and mingling uneasily with the locals. Tensions are high, especially since Dakota James, a teenage boy from the wealthier side of town, disappeared weeks ago. But another disturbing incident soon follows. When high school junior Katie Eaves and her friend, Willow Briggs, fail to come home after a night out, Katie's mother, Isla, is frantic. Two agonizing days go by before Katie is found, bruised and bloodied, yet alive. Isla is grateful. But Willow, a wealthy newcomer from Los Angeles, is still missing. And Katie can't remember anything about the night of their disappearance. Isla tries to help her daughter sort through her hazy recollections, and to recall the truth of her tangled friendship with privileged, beautiful Willow. At the hair salon she owns, Isla hears dark whispers about wild parties, drug deals, and love triangles gone wrong. How much truth is in the gossip? Is Dakota's disappearance linked to the others? And what other shocking secrets lie at the heart of Shepherd's Bay—and of the family Isla is struggling to hold together?

From the internationally bestselling author of Moondust Lake comes an emotional and enriching novel of family, forgiveness, self-acceptance, and self-discovery...When the darkness seems too hard to bear, there's only one thing left to do. Six years ago, Daniel was a Los Angeles financial analyst who was too handsome for his own good. Too smart for his anchor job on the nightly news. And too enamored with the heady addictions of the high life. That man died in a tragic accident with his fiancée. With grief and guilt battling for control, Daniel moved to the quiet California seaside town of Miramar Bay with his best friend—a rescue Labradoodle who still sees him through rough times. Daniel's a different man now. Clean, sober, and taking things one day at a time with no commitments to anyone except himself. And just as his solitude begins to chafe, two souls in need of fresh starts unexpectedly enter Daniel's life...Realize that it's time to wake up. Daniel's self-centered sister has dissolved several longtime relationships. Theirs included. The latest? Her restless teenage daughter, Nicole, whom she's dropped off in Miramar Bay without a backward glance. For Nicole, who's never felt at home in the world, it only confirms the disconnect she's always had with her mother. Now, left with an uncle she barely knows, Nicole is more adrift than ever. Yet to Daniel's surprise, playing surrogate father is forging a bond that he needs, too. More difficult for Daniel is the possibility of romance with lovely and fragile Stella Dalley. Struggling with a trauma of her own, the single mother is as cautious about love as Daniel is—no matter how healing it could be. But for Daniel, Stella, and Nicole there's still hope for a tomorrow they can call their own. All they have do is to learn to trust in each other, and in themselves. A powerful novel of new beginnings, chances taken, and hearts lost and found, Tranquility Falls is a timeless love story to treasure.

Set in contemporary Spain, Susana Aikin's latest novel is a colorful, beautifully written examination of memory, romance, and the intricacies of family duty. On a sweltering August day in Madrid, Anna, Julia, and Marion return to their childhood home. The once grand mansion, furnished with exotic objects and art that reflected the cultures of their English father and Spanish mother, once bustled with visitors. But since their father's death, all three sisters have been reluctant to go back, still feeling the weight of his domineering influence. Julia believes that before the house can sell, it needs to be cleared of negative energy, and she has planned a limpieza, or cleaning ritual. Marion, the oldest, fears what the ceremony might unleash. Anna, the youngest and most capable and ambitious of the trio, is skeptical of the Cuban santeria hired by Julia. Still, she is wary of antagonizing her siblings, or of stirring up old resentment. But as the ceremony progresses, guilt and recrimination become impossible to ignore. And if there's a chance of bringing their house and their lives out of the shadows, it rests in the sisterhood, strength, and indomitable love that remains when the ghosts of the past surrender at last.

A Goodreads Big Thriller of Fall A twisting, unpredictable new novel of suspense by #1 New York Times bestselling author Lisa Jackson, perfect for fans of the page-turning novels of Harlan Coben, Melinda Leigh, and Gregg Olsen. “The constant twists will keep the readers hooked. This is a nonstop thrill ride.”—Publishers Weekly The Cahills of San Francisco are famous for two things: their vast wealth, and the scandals that surround them. Murder, greed, deadly ambition... some people will do anything to get, and keep, the Cahills'kind of money. Not that James Cahill wants any of it. He's tried to make his own way, less interested in a future inheritance than in his construction company—and in enjoying the many women taken in by the easy charms of a handsome, soon-to-be-rich bad boy. “Jackson juices things up with plenty of sexy suspense and a generous amount ofhigh-octane thrills.”—Booklist Perhaps there've been too many women. Waking up in a small hospital in Washington State, bandaged and bruised, James barely recognizes the gorgeous blonde who comes to visit. Through the haze of pain and medication, he recalls that she is Sophia, the woman he's been cheating with. Gradually memories return—his girlfriend, Megan, had found out about Sophia. Now Megan is missing, her sister is hounding him—and police and reporters are asking questions. James insists he has no idea what happened. Yet he can't escape a feeling of dread... “A good mystery that keeps readers guessing until the very end.”—The Parkersburg News & Sentinel Meanwhile, in a locked room, a woman waits, trapped, petrified, desperate. She thought she knew who to trust. But the betrayal you can't imagine—or can't remember—may be the most terrifying weapon of all...

How much more can you give when you've already given everything? In Colleen Faulkner's affecting, thought-provoking new novel, the mother of a pregnant teenager discovers there are no easy answers—and that a mistake-proof life may not be worth living … Liv Ridgely prides herself on being the responsible wrangler of all things family: stay at home mom, caretaker of elderly parents, supporter of husband Oscar's career, savior of her wayward sister. Now, with her son off to college, and her ambitious daughter, Hazel, a year away from following him, it's Liv's turn. She's even established her dream career of bringing beautiful old homes back to life in the most picturesque part of Maine. Until she learns that 16-year-old Hazel is three months pregnant. Hazel insists she will have the baby and raise him with her boyfriend, Tyler, who's no one's idea of a model father. Clearly, there are going to be some conflicts to iron out. Liv just doesn't expect them to be with her husband. As it turns out, Liv and Oscar have very different ideas about what to do. Perhaps it's because Liv, who was adopted, has a unique perspective on this baby's future. And perhaps it's because, as a mother, she knows better than anyone how Hazel's young life will be changed forever. As the family fractures in every direction, past resentments and pain come tumbling out. After years of putting others first, Liv wonders if she can do what's best for her daughter, her parents, and her marriage—while still being true to herself.

An unforgettable and moving novel of sacrifice and hope, and the way love between a parent and child can transform them both. Erin Marinelli has her work cut out for her when she arrives at her late grandmother's Wisconsin home to prepare for an estate sale. But sifting through the overwhelming collection of figurines, outdated appliances and dusty books, she finds something that captures her attention: a yellowed envelope of old photographs. In one, taken almost a century ago, a beautiful woman is seated with a young boy who looks uncannily like Erin's five-year-old autistic son, Will. Intrigued, Erin looks further into her family's history, and discovers parallels to her present-day life. The boy in the picture, John Cartwright, was deaf. He and his mother, Amelia, are presumed to have drowned together in Geneva Lake, beside Amelia's family home. Named for the butterflies that flocked to its lush gardens, Monarch Manor still stands, though the once-grand Queen Anne house is now in ruins, slated for demolition. Seeking respite from her own exhausting battle to get the best care for Will, Erin delves even deeper into the past—unearthing a story that is both heartbreaking and surprising. Praise for Maureen Leurck's Cicada Summer “Rich with believable characters and an evocative setting, Leurck's novel is a gem.” —Publishers Weekly“Leurck has crafted a perfect summertime story of love, loss, and second chances.... Readers of Elin Hilderbrand and Nancy Thayer will enjoy this beach read.” —Booklist “A captivating novel about the power of redemption.”—Jen Lancaster, New York Times bestselling author

In this masterful new novel, set in 1950s North Carolina, the acclaimed author of The Road to Bittersweet and The Education of Dixie Dupree brings to life an unforgettable young heroine and a moving story of family love tested to its limits. For twelve-year-old Martha “Sonny” Creech, there is no place more beautiful than her family's cotton farm. She, her two brothers, and her parents work hard on their land—hoeing, planting, picking—but only Sonny loves the rich, dark earth the way her father does. When a tragic accident claims his life, her stricken family struggles to fend off ruin—until their rich, reclusive neighbor offers to help finance that year's cotton crop. Sonny is dismayed when her mama accepts Frank Fowler's offer; even more so when Sonny's best friend, Daniel, points out that the man has ulterior motives. Sonny has a talent for divining water—an ability she shared with her father and earns her the hated nickname “water witch” in school. But uncanny as that skill may be, it won't be enough to offset Mr. Fowler's disturbing influence in her world. Even her bond with Daniel begins to collapse under the weight of Mr. Fowler's bigoted taunts. Though she tries to bury her misgivings for the sake of her mama's happiness, Sonny doesn't need a willow branch to divine that a reckoning is coming, bringing with it heartache, violence—and perhaps, a fitting and surprising measure of justice.

“The family pets see so much more than anyone realizes in this family drama... Told with empathy and hope” by the author of What Holds Us Together (Booklist). A boy and his cat. It's an unconventional friendship, perhaps, but for Charlie and Lily, it works beautifully. It was Charlie who chose Lily from among all the cats in the shelter. He didn't frown, the way other humans did, when he saw her injured back leg, the legacy of a cruel previous owner. Instead, Charlie insisted on rescuing her. Now Lily wants to do the same for Charlie. She's the only one who's seen the bruises on Charlie's body. If she knew who was hurting him, she'd scratch their eyes out. But she can't fix this by herself. Lily needs to get the rest of the family to focus on Charlie—not easy when they're wrapped up in their own problems. Charlie's mother kicked his father out weeks ago and has a new boyfriend who seems charming, but is still a stranger. Oldest son Kevin misses his father desperately. Victoria, Charlie's sister, also has someone new in her life, and Lily is decidedly suspicious. Even Charlie's father, who Lily loves dearly, is behaving strangely. Lily knows what it's like to feel helpless. But she also knows that you don't always have to be the biggest or the strongest to fight fiercely for the ones you love... “Powerful and smartly written, Ward explores the intricate workings of family life with a compassionate touch and unflinching honesty.”—Lisa Duffy, author of My Kind of People

Now a Hallmark Movies & Mysteries film! “A warm, heartfelt novel about what it means to belong to a family.” —Mary Alice Monroe, New York Times bestselling author Even in a town as picturesque and rich in history as Oliver's Well, Virginia, there's something special about the Reynolds house on Honeysuckle Lane. Sturdy yet graceful, well-proportioned outside and within, it's where Andie, Emma, and Daniel Reynolds grew up—before they began to grow apart. For Danny, this first reunion since their mother's death is a chance for him and his sisters to relive cherished holiday traditions—attending the church concert, lighting the town tree—before finally settling their parents'estate. But readying the house for sale proves no easy task when every piece of furniture and every moment together stirs up the past. Andie, the oldest sibling, didn't just leave home years ago, she left her young daughter too. Though she's found fulfillment and fame as a self-help author, coming back shakes her equilibrium. How can she presume to guide others if she can't be honest with those closest to her, much less herself? Middle child Emma struck out on her own instead of accepting her father's offer to share his business. Yet now she finds herself drawn back to her town's quiet rhythms and routines, wondering if it's possible to start over. The house on Honeysuckle Lane contains a lifetime's worth of joys and dreams, and its share of regrets too. This Christmas, it will be the place where Andie, Emma, and Danny come together to remember, laugh, fight, plan—and find their way forward as a family once more.

“A daughter secretly infiltrates an Oregon cult to save her mother in this harrowing tale” from the author of Domestic Secrets (Publishers Weekly).Twelve years ago, Glory abandoned her two daughters—four-year-old Ruby and baby Aurora—at a fire station, running off to a man who promised love and protection. Though the refuge she hoped for turned out to be a sham, she believes Ruby and Aurora are better off without her. But Glory has since given birth to another daughter, who's clamoring for a life beyond their close-knit, tightly controlled world.Sixteen-year-old Ruby loves her adoptive parents, but she hasn't forgotten Glory. Now that she has her driver's license, Ruby sets out in search of her birth mother. What she finds is a ramshackle house of castaway women, referred to as “sisters,” ruled over by a charismatic bully who monitors their every move.Glory would take ten-year-old Luna away in a heartbeat if they had somewhere to go. On good days, the girl is confined to the fenced-in yard; on bad days, she's sent to the dusty attic as punishment. When Ruby makes contact, Glory seizes on a chance for escape. Ruby is desperate to help, but how much does she owe to family she barely knows—and how can she fix someone else's life when she has so little power over her own?Praise for The Sisters“Thanks to its twisted plot and courageous characters, Noonan's portrait of the love between a mother and daughter is irresistible.” —Publishers Weekly “Noonan's complex novel grips the reader with fully textured characters and page turning suspense. A heart wrenching book you won't soon forget.” —New York Journal of Books

The bestselling author of The Beach Quilt sets a tale of friendship, family, and newfound love against the beautiful backdrop of coastal Maine. Every June, the quiet beach town of Ogunquit is overtaken by wealthy families who hire local young women like Amy Latimer and Hayley Franklin to care for their children. Best friends since childhood, Amy and Hayley are eager to secure lucrative summer jobs to finance their future hopes and dreams... Amy is immediately in thrall to her dynamic boss, Cressida Prior, so different from Amy's mother, Leda. Though skilled at creating tapestries and rugs, Leda lacks confidence. But one thing she does know, after a painful summer long ago as a nanny herself, is how damaging a manipulative boss can be. Hayley's employers, Jon and Marisa Whitby, are loving parents to their two-year-old twins. Jon also has a grown son by a previous marriage. Ethan is kind, handsome, and not least, wealthy. For the first time, Hayley, usually so selfless, can't help seeing him as an opportunity. But the passing weeks bring complications and revelations, altering friendships, testing the bond between mothers and daughters, and proving that the ripples from a single season can last forever... Praise for the novels of Holly Chamberlin “There is sure to be much clamor for this latest beach read. Recommend it to fans of Claire Cook and Elin Hilderbrand.”—Booklist on Home for the Summer “Chamberlin's latest is a great summer read but with substance. It will find a wide audience in its exploration of sisterhood, family, and loss.”—Library Journal on Summer with My Sisters

A mother and daughter reunion faces unexpected and painful challenges in this emotionally compelling novel from the author of What Makes a Family. It's the moment Harper Broussard always dreamed of. Her daughter Georgina, snatched fourteen years ago during a Mardi Gras parade, is standing before her, making cappuccinos behind the counter of Harper's favorite New Orleans coffee shop. Harper's ex-husband, Remy, has patiently endured many “sightings” over the years, and assumes this is yet another false alarm. Yet this time, Harper is right. The woman who kidnapped Georgina admits to her crime. Georgina, now known as Lilla, returns to her birth parents. But in all of Harper's homecoming fantasies, her daughter was still a little girl, easily pacified with a trip to the park or a cherry snowball. In reality, she's a wary, confused teenager who has never known any mother except the loving woman who's now serving time. Harper's younger daughter, Josephine, has spent her life competing with the ghost of a perfect, missing sister. Trying to bond with the real, imperfect version isn't any easier. And though Remy has agreed to give their strained marriage another chance, he and Harper struggle to connect. Clinging to dreams of reuniting has been Harper's way of surviving. Now she must forge new ones on an often heartbreaking yet ultimately hopeful journey—one that will redefine her idea of motherhood and family. Praise for Colleen Faulkner's Just Like Other Daughters “This deeply moving story of maternal love and renewal will touch your heart... beautifully written with rare insight.” —Susan Wiggs, #1 New York Times bestselling author

A housecat attempts to make sense of the world when her human family experiences a crisis in this bittersweet, uplifting debut novel.Pet owners know that a cat's loyalty is not easily earned. Boo, a resourceful young feline with a keen eye and inquiring mind, has nonetheless grown intensely devoted to her human companion, Carrie. Several days ago, Carrie—or Mother, as Boo calls her—suddenly went away, leaving her family, including Boo, in disarray. Carrie's husband, Tommy, is distant and distracted even as he does his best to care for Boo's human siblings, especially baby Finn.Boo worries about who will fill her food dish and provide a warm lap to nestle into. More pressing still, she's trying to uncover the complicated truth about why Carrie left. Though frequently mystified by human behavior, Boo is sure that Carrie once cared passionately for Tommy and adores her children, even the non-feline ones. But she also sees it may not be enough to make things right. Perhaps only a cat—a wise, observant, very determined cat—can do that...Wonderfully tender and insightful, The Astonishing Thing explores the intricacies of marriage and family through an unforgettable perspective at the center of it all.Praise for The Astonishing Thing“A beautiful and touching look into the intricacies of marriage and family life, all seen through the loving and unique perspective of the family pet.” —Modern Cat “A unique and poignant tale of a family's struggle as witnessed by someone who sees everything. A heartfelt homage to the four-legged companions who accompany us through life's toughest times, this is a triumphant debut for Sandi Ward.” —Helen Brown, New York Times–bestselling author of Cleo “The

A powerful, poignant novel of love, redemption, and family secrets from the incomparable #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Sisterhood books. On his thirty-fifth birthday, Jake St. Cloud inherits a fortune—and learns the whereabouts of his mysterious half-brother. On her deathbed, Selma St. Cloud revealed that Jake had a sibling, a product of his father's affair. At last, Jake is in a position to track down Alex Rosario and make amends for their father's past neglect. When their initial meeting goes badly, a distraught Jake crashes his car and is sentenced to community work—with Alex as his parole officer. Jake must spend a year helping Angelica Dancer and her daughter, Fancy, at the Dancer Foundation for neglected children. Fancy, scarred by the accident that ended her ballet career, is even less happy with the arrangement than Jake. Yet as they're all thrown together, unexpected connections help Jake realize that his mother's greatest gift to him lies not in his inheritance, but in the future, and the family he's slowly piecing together... Praise for Fern Michaels “Prose so natural that it seems you are witnessing a story rather than reading about it.” —Los Angeles Sunday Times “Michaels'Danielle Steel-like fun read has more plot twists than a soap opera, and will keep readers on tenterhooks for the next in the series.” —Booklist “Michaels just keeps getting better and better with each book... She never disappoints.” —RT Book Reviews

From the New York Times–bestselling author of Picture This—a stunning revelation sends a mother and her adopted daughter on a journey of self-discovery.How do you keep a secret so huge that it could devastate everyone you care about? For Kate Malloy, the answer is simple: one lie at a time. That's how she has protected her daughter for more than a dozen years, shielding her from a terrible truth. Sofia, a fifteen-year-old soccer star living in New England, believes she was born in Mexico and legally adopted by Kate. But a posthumous letter from her stepfather tells Sofia a different story—one of civil unrest and bloodshed, death-defying heroism and child-smuggling, harrowing sacrifice and desperate decisions.\Sofia's trust in her mother is shattered. At last Kate must do what she knows is right—accompany Sofia back to Guatemala—the place where Kate found horror and heartache but also the greatest joy of her life. As mother and daughter confront the damage done by years of dangerous yet necessary deceptions, they discover how much love, hope, and happiness may still remain—if they have the courage to face their past. Praise for The Center of the World: “Sheehan's writing is lively and vivid and her feel for historical detail is fine.” —The New York Times“Sheehan uses her skills as both a psychologist and a writer to create a solid, insightful story.” —Kirkus“An emotionally charged tale that explores the mother-daughter bond, set against the backdrop of the Guatemalan Civil War and complete with beautiful prose despite the atrocities.... Sheehan places the reader in the middle of war-torn Guatemala and expertly carries her narrative through war and peace, fear and security, and love and redemption.” —Publishers Weekly

A family of Russian refugees juggle their haunting past with their challenging present in this novel by the author of My Very Best Friend. Sometimes Toni Kozlovsky and her sisters know what each other is thinking, just when they need it most. Since Toni, Valerie, and Ellie were little girls growing up in Communist Russia, their parents have insisted it's simply further proof that the Kozlovskys are special and different. Now a reporter, Toni lives on a yellow tugboat on Oregon's Willamette River. As far as her parents are concerned, the pain of their old life and their dangerous escape should remain buried in the Moscow they left behind, as should the mysterious past of their adopted brother, Dmitry. But lately, Toni's talent for putting on a smile isn't enough to keep memories at bay. Valerie, a prosecuting attorney, wages constant war against the wrongs she could do nothing about as a child. Youngest sister Ellie is engaged to marry an Italian, breaking her mother's heart in the process. Toni fears she's about to lose her home, while the hard-edged DEA agent down the dock keeps trying to break through her reserve. Meanwhile, beneath the culture clashes and endearing quirks within her huge, noisy, loving family are deeper secrets that Toni has sworn to keep—even from the one person she longs to help most...“Lamb... draws readers into the embrace of Toni's eccentric and loud extended family, who inject regular bouts of humor into the story while their love for one another is palpable.... The joy of this intricate story is following these characters and their warm and compelling development... ” —Library Journal

She never wanted to return.He wants nothing more than for her to leave.But the fire between them is as strong as the past that haunts them.Annie Freemont grew up on the road, immersed in the romance of rare things, cultivating an eye for artifacts and a spirit for bargaining. It's a freewheeling life she loves and plans to continue--until her dad is diagnosed with dementia. His illness forces them to return to Moonhill, their ancestral home on the coast of Maine--and to the family they left behind fifteen years ago, after Annie's mother died in a suspicious accident. Once at Moonhill, Annie is shocked when her aunt separates her from her father. The next time Annie sees him, he's a bizarre, violent shadow of his former self. Confused, she turns to an unlikely ally for support--Chase, the dangerously seductive young groundskeeper. With his dark good looks and powerful presence, Chase has an air of mystery that Annie is irresistibly drawn to. But she also senses that behind his penetrating eyes are secrets she can't even begin to imagine. Secrets that hold the key to the past, to Annie's own longings--and to all of their futures. Now, to unlock them, she'll have to face her greatest fears and embrace her legacy… The Dark Heart SeriesBook 1

A novel that explores the surprising ways that families—even the most fractured—can save each other, over and over again by the author of Finding Georgina.Julia Maxton can't imagine anything worse than losing one of her three daughters—until the day seventeen-year-old Haley runs a stop sign, killing her younger sister Caitlin. Six weeks after the crash, the family is falling apart. Julia struggles not to show hostility toward Haley, but her deep-rooted anger won't go away. Her husband, Ben, has drifted away emotionally. Their youngest daughter, Izzy, is lost in the shuffle. And despite Haley's insistence that she's fine, her actions scream otherwise.Fearing that she's about to lose a second child, Julia decides to take Haley on a cross-country drive. Maybe somewhere between Nevada and Maine they can bridge the gulf between them. But first there will be painful questions to face—is Julia a good mother? Did she secretly love responsible, respectful Caitlin more than defiant Haley? Can Haley ever find peace with her mother—and herself—again?In Colleen Faulkner's most thought-provoking and complex novel to date, an unthinkable tragedy becomes the starting place for a powerful journey toward healing and hope.Praise for Colleen Faulkner's Just Like Other Daughters“This deeply moving story of maternal love and renewal will touch your heart. It's a celebration of the capacity of the human heart to heal itself and embrace change, beautifully written with rare insight.”—Susan Wiggs, #1 New York Times–bestselling author “Be prepared to weep tears of sorrow as well as tears of joy. This is a novel you won't soon forget.” —Holly Chamberlin, author of Barefoot in the Sand

From the author of The Happy Hour Choir comes a Romeo and Juliet story with Southern flair--witty, warm, and as complex and heart-wrenching as only love and family can be.For a century and a half, the Satterfield and McElroy farms have been separated by a narrow creek and a whole lot of bad blood. Both sides have done their share of damage. But the very worst crime either family can commit is to fall in love with the enemy. As teenagers, Romy Satterfield and Julian McElroy did exactly that. Then, on the night they were secretly married by a justice of the peace, Julian stood Romy up. Ten years later, Romy is poised to marry the scion of one of Nashville's most powerful families. First she has to return home to Ellery to help her injured father--and to finalize her divorce. For Julian, seeing Romy again brings into relief the secrets he's kept and the poison that ran through his childhood. Romy has missed the farm and the unpretentious, downright nosy townsfolk. In spite of her efforts, she's also missed Julian. But though she suspects there's more to that long-ago night than Julian ever revealed, the truth will either drive her away for good, or reveal what is truly worth fighting for...

A summer cottage on the Long Island Sound holds memories, secrets, and a chance for a scattered family to come together in this heartfelt novel. Helen Street spent every summer of her childhood at her family's cedar-shake cottage on the North Shore of Long Island. The youngest of four, she shared her mother's athletic genes and relished the outdoor games that filled those warm, endless days. Unlike her older siblings—fiery Charlotte, ambitious Thomas, middle-child Pammy—Helen rarely felt the pressure of her mother's high expectations. Thirty years later, with her brother and sisters scattered, Helen is the sole caregiver for her terminally ill mother. But now her mother has made a dramatic pronouncement: she will leave everything, including the cottage, to Helen when she dies—unless everyone comes to the shore for a long weekend over the Fourth of July. During this time Helen, Charlotte, Pammy, and Thomas will revisit the fateful choices of their shared history. And they will face new challenges that could shatter their fragile kinship—or reveal a family's extraordinary power to remember, to forgive, and to grow.

A small-town honky-tonk piano player finds love and redemption when she becomes the church pianist in this heartwarming debut novel.Life has dealt Beulah Land a tough hand to play, least of all being named after a hymn. A teenage pregnancy estranged her from her family, and a tragedy caused her to lose what little faith remained after that. The wayward daughter of a Baptist deacon, she spends her nights playing the piano at The Fountain, a honky-tonk located just across the road from County Line Methodist. But when she learns that a dear friend's dying wish is for her to take over as the church's piano player, she realizes it may be time to face the music... Beulah butts heads with Luke Daniels, the new pastor at County Line, who is determined to cling to tradition even though he needs to attract more congregants to the aging church. But the choir also isn't enthusiastic about Beulah's contemporary take on the old songs and refuse to perform. Undaunted, Beulah assembles a ragtag group of patrons from The Fountain to form the Happy Hour Choir. And as the unexpected gig helps her let go of her painful past—and accept the love she didn't think she deserved—she just may be able to prove to Luke that she can toe the line between sinner and saint...

Multiple generations gather at a beloved summer house—wondering who will inherit it next—in this “dramatic and moving” novel (Booklist). Some houses have a personality of their own. Larchmere is that kind of place—a splendid, sprawling home with breathtaking views that open to briny Atlantic air and seabirds'calls. It's where Tilda McQueen O'Connell grew up and now vacations each year, and where she and her siblings—Adam, Hannah, and Craig—are commemorating the tenth anniversary of their mother's passing. But instead of the bittersweet but relaxing reunion Tilda expected, she finds chaos. Her father's plan to marry a younger woman has thrown the fate of the beach house into uncertainty. For Tilda, the stakes seem the highest. Alone and vulnerable two years after her husband's death, she sees Larchmere as not just a cherished part of her history, but her eventual refuge from the world. Faced with losing that legacy, Tilda must embrace an unknown future. And all the McQueens must reconcile their shared, sometimes painful past—and learn how to love one another even when it means forging a life apart. This poignant, evocative novel sweeps you into the picturesque town of Ogunquit, Maine, where a family in flux explores their ties to a beautiful beach house, and to each other. “Explores questions about the meaning of home, family dynamics and tolerance.”—Bangor Daily News “Provides a touristy taste of Maine's seasonal attractions.”—Publishers Weekly “A novel for all seasons.”—The Maine Sunday Telegram

“A sentimental and, at times, heart-wrenching story that touches on guilt, grief, forgiveness, and motherhood” from the author of Family Trees (Publishers Weekly). Nestled along the shores of the beautiful Great Lakes, Meyers Orchard is where Shelby Meyers found unexpected love and strength—and now must forge a new life on her own terms... Marriage marks both a happy ending and a new chapter for Shelby Meyers. She and Ryan Chambers have overcome tremendous odds to stand together in her grandparents'orchard on the bluffs of Lake Superior, exchanging vows. Still, there are challenges old and new to contend with. Shelby struggles to find her niche among Ryan's prominent Chicago family, while her own mother remains unreliable and unpredictable, impacting her life even from afar. Though Shelby's love for Ryan is as deep-rooted as the orchard, her rocky upbringing makes her hesitant to start a family. Before she can reconcile those feelings, a personal tragedy throws Shelby's confidence, and her marriage, into crisis. To move forward she'll have to go back—to her Great Lakes hometown and her mother, and to secrets she could never have guessed at, as she resolves to branch out on her own... Praise for Family Trees “March writes lyrically about the orchard and Lake Superior... [a] story of love, forgiveness, and growing into adulthood.”—St. Paul Pioneer Press “Kerstin March writes a captivating story of love, heartbreak and triumph.”—Laura Sobiech, author of Fly a Little Higher

From the author of the Savannah Skies series, a love affair threatens to destroy the friendship between two neighboring families on Cape Cod one summer.The friendship between the Coleman and Shepherd families is as old and comfortable as the neighboring houses they occupy each summer on Cape Cod. Samuel and Sarah Coleman love those warm months by the water; the evenings spent on their porch, enjoying gin and tonics, good conversation and homemade clam chowder. Here they've watched their sons, Isaac and Asa, grow into fine young men, and watched, too, as Nate Shepherd, aching with grief at the loss of his first wife, finally found love again with the much younger Noelle.But beyond the surface of these idyllic gatherings, the growing attraction between Noelle and handsome, college-bound Asa threatens to upend everything. In spite of her guilt and misgivings, Noelle is drawn into a reckless secret affair with far-reaching consequences. And over the course of one bittersweet, unforgettable summer, Asa will learn more than he ever expected about love—the joys and heartache it awakens in us, the lengths we'll go to keep it, and the countless ways it can change our lives forever...Praise for The Gin & Chowder Club“Nostalgic and tender... Summons the passion of first love, the pain of first loss, and the unbreakable bonds of family that help us survive both.” —Marie Bostwick, New York Times–bestselling author“Eloquent and surprising... I love this story of faith, love, and the lasting bonds of family.” —Ann Leary, author of The Good House

Peter Pezzelli's remarkable debut, Home to Italy, won the hearts of readers and critics alike. Now, with Every Sunday, Pezzelli has created another unforgettable tale about life, love, family and friendship.In Providence, Rhode Island, everybody knows Nick Catini. Street smart, with a quick wit and a larger-than-life personality, Nick is the go-to guy, the owner of Catini's Hardware who's there to score friends tickets to the big game or fix his daughters'problems. Every Sunday, Nick presides over the family dinner, dishing out sauce and advice with equal abandon. It is a time for family, for grandchildren, for men watching football in the living room while the women gossip and plan in the kitchen. It is a time to remember what matters most in life. Sunday is the best day of the week, and nobody can imagine it without Nick.But when Nick is suddenly gone, that is exactly what they have to do--go on without him. For his girls--Maria, Nina, and Gina--it means learning to stand on their own feet while arguing about whether or not their mother, Teresa, can date again. For Teresa, it means trying somehow to keep her family together, even as she wonders what it would be like to find love again. And for her carefree son, Johnny, it means making good on his father's last request, a secret with the power to heal Johnny's guarded heart, if it doesn't destroy his family in the process. Now, as the first leaves of fall stick to the wet streets of New England, as the winter snow melts into the pastel hues of spring, and everything seems new and different, the Catinis will be tested and changed as never before. For what seems like an insurmountable loss just may be the beginning of the best part of their lives...At once both funny and heartwarming, with one of the most unique, unforgettable narrators to come along in years, Every Sunday is a warm, winning novel rich in hope, wisdom and the surprising strength of second chances. Outstanding Praise For Peter Pezzelli And Home To ItalyA BookSense Pick!'A beautiful novel...Peter Pezzelli captures the warmth of Italy--family, friendships, and food--invites us into the world of his wonderful characters, and takes us full circle on a journey of life and love.'--Luanne Rice, New York Times bestselling author'A delightful story of second chances.'--Desert Morning News'Big-hearted and wise, Home to Italy is a charming ode to the romance of new beginnings and the Italian gusto for life. Peter Pezzelli's tale of a widower who returns to his childhood town in Abruzzo to rebuild his life, only to be struck by the legendary thunderbolt of love, is a continuous delight.'--Louisa Ermelino, author of Joey Dee Gets Wise'With heartwarming touches of humor, Home to Italy reaffirms that life can always be renewed. This is a wonderfully satisfying romance that brings to life the sights, sounds, and tastes of Italy.'--Romantic Times'A warmhearted novel, perfect for an autumn evening in front of the fire.'--Litchfield Enquirer

In this warm, engaging debut novel, four siblings make their way home, where their father, the memory of their mother, and long-held family secrets all collide just in time for ChristmasFor Maggie Arnaud and her siblings, childhood Christmases meant lavish feasts and beloved rituals. The day began with hot chocolate and cougnole de Noel—the sweet, rich bread traditional in their parents'native Belgium. Those special holidays ended with their mother's death, and their father has grown more distant each year. But now, he has summoned his grown children once again. And none of them is eager to expose their imperfect lives to his scrutiny… Jacqueline is an opera singer living in Brussels—outwardly successful but yearning for a deeper fulfillment. Near Philadelphia, cookbook writer Maggie's career and marriage are in turmoil. Colette, an aspiring clothing designer in California, lost her boyfriend and her savings in one blow. And roving younger brother Art is still searching for something—or someone. Armed with their insecurities, rivalries—and their mother's most delicious recipes—the Arnauds gather in Pennsylvania. But a good meal does more than feed the body—it awakens memories, nurtures bonds, and might even bring a family back together. Includes classic Belgian recipes

A family struggles in the aftermath of a tragic car accident in this psychological novel by the author of Keeping Lucy. Sylvie can hardly bear to remember how normal her family was two years ago. All of that changed on the night an oncoming vehicle forced their car over the edge of a covered bridge into the river. With horrible swiftness, Sylvie's young son was gone, her husband lost his legs, and she was left with shattering blame and grief. Eleven-year-old Ruby misses her little brother, too. But she also misses the mother who has become a recluse in their old home while Ruby and her dad try to piece themselves back together. Amid all the uncertainty in her life, Ruby becomes obsessed with bridges, drawing inspiration from the strength and purpose that underlies their grace. During one momentous week, as Hurricane Irene bears down on their small Vermont town and a pregnant teenager with a devastating secret gradually draws Sylvie back into the world, Ruby and her mother will have a chance to span the gap between them again.Praise for The Forever Bridge“I loved The Forever Bridge from its first beautiful sentence to its breathtaking final one.” —Ann Hood“This is contemporary fiction at its finest, a story that will tug on your heart strings and keep you reading with your heart and soul.” —Random Book Musings

In this luminous debut novel about a young woman putting her life back together after the death of her brother, Meri Weiss explores hope after heartbreak, and the myriad ways that those we love can make us whole again...Growing up, Alexandra and her older brother Ashley were never close. Her decision to move in to Ashley's Upper West Side apartment to care for him during his final months surprises herself as much as anyone, but it can't erase the guilt Alex feels at the years they wasted. Now, four years after his death, with a bout of depression and a suicide attempt behind her, Alex feels fragile but no longer broken. As for normal--only with her roommate and best friend Jordy and their gay friend Jax can she feel anything close to that. Then Alex's therapist, Sam, bequeaths her a cryptic message that changes everything. The note reads simply,'You're missing a piece of yourself.'At Sam's funeral, Alex meets Tucker--the charming, cute son of one of New York's wealthiest businessmen. As their romance deepens, Tucker tries to draw Alex out of her safety zone. But is Tucker the key to Sam's riddle, or is the real answer still waiting to be found? At once humorous and heartbreaking, and peopled with deftly rendered characters, Closer to Fine is an exquisite first novel about love, loss, and self discovery, written with uncommon verve and grace.

A small town pizzeria proprietor must once again serve up justice when her sister's fiancé is accused of murder in this culinary cozy mystery. The only thing Eleanor Swift loves more than serving up the best pizza in Timber Ridge, North Carolina, is her sister Maddy. So when Maddy's cheating ex-husband Grant shows up with some pie-in-the-sky plan to win her back, Eleanor is happy to see Maddy show him the door. But they both know Grant isn't done yet, especially when he picks a fight with Maddy's fiancé Bob in front of the whole town. Naturally, when Grant is later found stabbed in the heart with a barbeque skewer, the police have Bob pinned to the top of their suspect list. To top things off, it turns out that Maddy stands to gain a lot of dough from Grant's death. Now he and Eleanor need to catch the real killer before they wind up trading in slices for the slammer! Includes a delicious pizza recipe!'Delightful... as usual, Cavender does a fine job capturing the feel of a small North Carolina town and its people.'—Publishers Weekly

From the acclaimed author of Miss You Most of All comes a heartfelt, wonderfully affirming novel of sisterhood, healing, and new beginnings.No one could blame Bev Putterman for becoming estranged from her sister. No one but Bev, anyway. Growing up, Diana was difficult and selfish yet always their mother's favorite. And then came the betrayal that took away the future Bev dreamed of.Yet if Diana caused problems while alive, her death leaves Bev in a maelstrom of remorse. She longs to provide a stable home for Diana's fourteen-year-old daughter, Alabama. But between her commitment-phobic boyfriend and her precarious teaching position, Bev's life is already in upheaval without an unruly teenager around. All Alabama knows about Aunt Bev is what her mother told her--and none of it was good. They clash about money, clothes, boys, and especially about Diana. In desperation, Alabama sets out to find her late father's family. Instead she learns of the complicated history between her mother and aunt, how guilt can shut down a life--and most important, how love and forgiveness can open a door and make us whole again...Praise for the novels of Elizabeth BassWherever Grace is Needed'Bass draws her characters, particularly the adolescents, very well.'--Publishers Weekly'Readers of all ages can enjoy this thoughtful story of two families overcoming tremendous challenges.'--VOYAMiss You Most of AllAN INDIE NEXT LIST NOTABLE SELECTION!'An exuberant celebration of life, love, family and friendship, told with a sassy Texas flair. It's a perfect balance of humor and heartache, a sweetly satisfying novel that will stay with the reader long after the final page is turned.'--Susan Wiggs'The world Elizabeth Bass has created is full of life, humor, heartache and hope. You'll be happy to enter it and sad to leave.'--Lorna Landvik

The New York Times–bestselling author invites you to the close-knit Florida island community that offers a whole new perspective on family and forgiveness.In the wake of her husband Andrew's sudden passing, there's nowhere Marin Kane would rather be than back on Cedar Key. Marin plans to run the needlepoint store next to her mother Dora's yarn shop, and settle once more into her tranquil hometown. Then a bombshell arrives: a secret daughter Andrew never revealed to anyone.Now nineteen, Fiona was the product of a summer affair Andrew had when he was out of town teaching—while Marin was home with their two small sons. All Fiona wants is a chance to meet her half-brothers and Marin—and through them get some sense of the father she barely knew. Marin isn't sure she can ever overcome her sense of betrayal. But buoyed by old friends—and a new love—the answers may unfold, guiding both Marin and Fiona to a true refuge at last.Praise for the Cedar Key series “You'll fall instantly in love with Cedar Key and this homespun knitting community, crafted with expert hands.” —Lori Wilde, New York Times–bestselling author“DuLong brings us a heartwarming story with genuine characters.... Tender and poignant, perfect for those who love knitting as well as the bonds between women.” —RT Book Reviews “Poignant, absorbing, humorous... A debut that tugs at the heart.” —Sophia Nash, award-winning author of Whispering in French

When seven-year-old Bethany meets her six-year-old cousin Reana Mae, it's the beginning of a kinship of misfits that saves both from a bone-deep loneliness. Every summer, Bethany and her family leave Indianapolis for West Virginia's Coal River Valley. For Bethany's mother, the trips are a reminder of the coalmines and grinding poverty of her childhood, of a place she'd hoped to escape. But her loving relatives, and Bethany's friendship with Reana Mae, keep them coming back. But as Bethany grows older, she realizes that life in this small, close-knit community is not as simple as she once thought...that the riverside cabins that hold so much of her family's history also teem with scandalous whispers...and that those closest to her harbor unimaginable secrets. Amid the dense woods and quiet beauty of the valley, these secrets are coming to light at last, with a force devastating enough to shatter lives, faith, and the bond that Bethany once thought would last forever. Spanning four decades, Sherri Wood Emmons'debut is a haunting, captivating novel about the unexpected, sometimes shocking events that thrust us into adulthood--and the connections that keep us tethered, always, to our pasts.

In this thoroughly heartwarming novel, Elizabeth Bass-author of Miss You Most of All-creates an unforgettable story of friendship, compassion, and the extraordinary love that lies at the heart of every ordinary family.When Grace Oliver leaves Portland for Austin, Texas, to help her father, Lou, recuperate from a car accident, she expects to stay just a few weeks. Since her mother's divorce thirty years ago, Grace has hovered on the periphery of the Oliver family. But now she sees a chance to get closer to her half-brothers and the home she's never forgotten. But the Olivers are facing a crisis. Tests reveal that Lou, a retired college professor whose sharp tongue and tenderness Grace adores, is in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease. Grace delays her departure to care for him, and is soon entwined in the complicated lives of her siblings-all squabbling over Lou's future-and of the family next door... Ray West and his three children are reeling from a recent tragedy, particularly sixteen-year-old Jordan, whose grief is heightened by guilt and anger. Amid the turmoil, Grace not only gives solace and support, but learns to receive it. And though she came to Austin to reconnect with her past, she is drawn by degrees into surprising new connections. With wit, wisdom, and unfailing insight, Elizabeth Bass tells a story of loving and letting go, of heartache and hope, and of the joy that comes in finding a place we can truly call home.

A novel of a troubled Vermont family and a teenage boy walking a dangerous emotional tightrope—from “a writer of subtle strength” (Publishers Weekly). Every family photograph hides a story. Some are suffused with warmth and joy, others reflect the dull ache of disappointed dreams. For thirteen-year-old Trevor Kennedy, taking photos helps him make sense of his fractured world. His father, Kurt, struggles to keep a business going while also caring for Trevor's aging grandfather, whose hoarding has reached dangerous levels. Trevor's mother, Elsbeth, all but ignores her son while doting on his five-year-old sister, Gracy, and pilfering useless drugstore items. Trevor knows he can count on little Gracy's unconditional love and his art teacher's encouragement. None of that compensates for the bullying he has endured at school for as long as he can remember. But where Trevor once silently tolerated the jabs and name-calling, now anger surges through him in ways he's powerless to control. Only Crystal, a store clerk dealing with her own loss, sees the deep fissures in the Kennedy family—in the haunting photographs Trevor brings to be developed, and in the palpable distance between Elsbeth and her son. And as their lives become more intertwined, each will be pushed to the breaking point, with shattering, unforeseeable consequences.

In this deeply moving and wonderfully insightful novel, acclaimed author Cathy Lamb explores what can happen when one woman decides to reclaim her past-and her future-no matter where they lead...Madeline O'Shea tells people what to do with their lives. A renowned life coach, she inspires thousands of women through her thriving practice-exuding enviable confidence along with her stylish suits and sleek hair. But her confidence, just like her fashionable demeanor, is all a front. For decades, Madeline has lived in fear of her traumatic past becoming public. Now a reporter is reinvestigating the notorious crime that put Madeline's mother behind bars, threatening to destroy her elaborate façade. Only Madeline's sister, Annie, and their frail grandparents know about her childhood--but lately Madeline has reason to wonder if her grandparents also have a history they've been keeping from her. As the demons of the past swirl around her, a tough, handsome judge with a gentle heart is urging Madeline to have faith in him-and in herself. And as she allows her resistance to thaw, the pain she expects pales in comparison to the surprises headed straight to her door. With one bold, unprecedented move, Madeline O'Shea may just wake up out of the sadness and guilt that have kept her sleepwalking through life for so long-and discover that the worst thing that can happen is sometimes the very thing we desperately need. The First Day of the Rest of My Life is an eloquent and triumphant tale of a fierce act of love, a family's legacy, and one woman's awakening to her own power-with no secrets.....

What happens when a woman who's realized her dreams wakes up to a shocking truth? Shobhan Bantwal's poignant new novel weaves a captivating tale of one woman's return to India: the place where she lost everything--and now has everything to gain...It is a morning like any other in suburban New Jersey when Vinita Patil opens the battered envelope postmarked'Mumbai.'But the letter inside turns her comfortable world upside down. It tells Vinita an impossible story: she has a grown son in India whose life may depend on her...Once upon a time, a naïve young college girl fell for a wealthy boy whose primary interests were cricket and womanizing. Vinita knew, even then, that a secret affair with a man whose language and values were different from her own was a mistake. He finished with her soon enough--leaving her to birth a baby that was stillborn. Or so Vinita was told...Now, that child is a grown man in desperate need. To help her son, to know him, Vinita must revisit her darkest hours by returning to her battle-scarred homeland--and pray for the faith of the family she leaves behind...Praise for Shobhan Bantwal and her novels...'Dazzles you with a taste of Desi culture in America.'--Caridad Piñeiro, New York Times bestselling author on The Sari Shop Widow'Compelling and memorable.'--Mary Jo Putney, New York Times bestselling author on The Forbidden Daughter'Vivid, rich...expertly portrays a young woman caught between love and duty, hope and despair.'--Anjali Banerjee on The Dowry Bride

“An affecting portrait of one woman's heroic journey from tragedy to her own version of happiness” from the acclaimed author of All About Evie (Booklist).Two years and 170 pounds ago, Stevie Barrett was wheeled into an operating room for surgery that most likely saved her life. Since that day, a new Stevie has emerged, one who walks without wheezing, plants a garden for self-therapy, and builds and paints fantastical wooden chairs. At thirty-five, Stevie is the one thing she never thought she'd be: thin.But for everything that's changed, some things remain the same. Stevie's shyness refuses to melt away. She still can't look her gorgeous neighbor in the eye. The Portland law office where she works remains utterly dysfunctional, as does her family—the aunt, uncle, and cousins who took her in when she was a child. To top it off, her once supportive best friend clearly resents her weight loss. But as Stevie starts to uncover some surprising revelations—about who she is, who she wants to be, and how the old Stevie evolved in the first place—she realizes the most important part of her transformation may not be what she's lost, but the courage and confidence she's gathering, day by day.Praise for the novels of Cathy Lamb“A story of strength and reconciliation and change.” —The Sunday Oregonian“I loved this beguiling novel about love, friendship and the enchantment of really good chocolate.” —Luanne Rice, New York Times-bestselling author“Lamb is an awesome storyteller and moves seamlessly from the past to the present.” —RT Book Reviews

In his acclaimed novels of Italian-American life, Peter Pezzelli explores themes of friendship, hope, and second chances. With Villa Mirabella, he invites readers into the lives of an unforgettable family—and into the warmth of one very special bed and breakfast... When Jason Mirabella returns to his childhood home on a blustery winter's day, the only thing he's sure of is that he'll be staying in Providence just long enough to get back on his feet again. It's been three years since Jason moved to Los Angeles, brimming with ambitions he knew could never be fulfilled in Rhode Island. He had no intention of entering the family business—running a beautiful but timeworn B&B that's struggling to compete with downtown's luxurious new hotels. Smart, proud, and hardworking, Jason found quick success in L.A., until one foolish decision cost him everything. Jason's widowed father, Giulio, is overjoyed to have his prodigal son back in the fold under any circumstances, though his siblings, Ray and Natalie, are less than thrilled. But as days go by, Jason slowly begins to carve out a place for himself, rediscovering everything he was so eager to leave behind, and beginning a tentative romance with a young woman who opens his eyes to a wider world. Just as Jason begins to forge a better understanding of his family, circumstances transpire to test that bond and challenge his resolutions. Now, as the promise of spring comes to New England once more, Jason will learn that sometimes, you can go home again, and the answers found there may be the only ones you need…

'A beautifully crafted, mesmerizing read which I highly recommend.'--Cassandra King, author of The Sunday WifeLife changes in an instant. One day, Emmett and Lauren Sullivan's biggest worries revolve around the escalating taxes on their gorgeous Victorian beach house on Pawley's Island, South Carolina. The next, they're facing a devastating crisis.'It's impossible to not be touched by the honesty and courage the novel--and the author--portrays.'--The Sun News (Myrtle Beach, SC)Emmett and Lauren have always been a team, working together to raise their two daughters. But lately, with all their attention focused on nine-year-old Ainslie, they barely notice as their older daughter, Sloan, drifts further away from them and toward a reckless path that could tear their family apart...'A thought-provoking story that will linger in the reader's imagination.'--The Free Lance-Star (Fredericksburg, VA)'A vividly drawn love letter to coastal South Carolina. McMahan's descriptions of the Lowcountry and its unique climate and customs jump off the page.'--Publishers Weekly'The story is gripping and the characters all too real.'--Booklist

It's been five years since the Mason family vacationed at the lakeside cottage in northeastern Vermont, close to where prize-winning novelist Samuel Mason grew up. The summers that Sam, his wife, Mena, and their twins Franny and Finn spent at Lake Gormlaith were noisy, chaotic, and nearly perfect. But since Franny's death, the Masons have been flailing, one step away from falling apart. Lake Gormlaith is Sam's last, best hope of rescuing his son from a destructive path and salvaging what's left of his family. As Sam struggles with grief, writer's block, and a looming deadline, Mena tries to repair the marital bond she once thought was unbreakable. But even in this secluded place, the unexpected--in the form of an over-zealous fan, a surprising friendship, and a second chance--can change everything. From the acclaimed author of Two Rivers comes a compelling and beautifully told story of hope, family, and above all, hunger--for food, sex, love and success--and for a way back to wholeness when a part of oneself has been lost forever. Praise For T. Greenwood's Two Rivers'A dark and lovely elegy, filled with heartbreak that turns itself into hope and forgiveness. I felt so moved by this luminous novel.'--Luanne Rice, New York Times bestselling author'T. Greenwood's writing shimmers and sings...'--Marisa de los Santos, New York Times bestselling author of Belong to Me and Love Walked In'A memorable, powerful work.'--Garth Stein, New York Times bestselling author of The Art of Racing in the Rain'Greenwood is a writer of subtle strength, evoking small-town life beautifully while spreading out the map of Harper's life, finding light in the darkest of stories.'--Publishers Weekly'A sensitive and suspenseful portrayal of family and the ties that bind.'--Lee Martin, author of The Bright Forever and River of Heaven'A haunting story...Ripe with surprising twists and heartbreakingly real characters...remarkable and complex.'--Michelle Richmond, New York Times bestselling author of The Year of Fog and No One You Know'A complex tale of guilt, remorse, revenge, and forgiveness... Convincing... Interesting...'--Library Journal'Two Rivers is the story that people want to read: the one they have never read before.'--Howard Frank Mosher, author of Walking to Gatlinburg