How to Walk Away by Katherine Center. St. Martin's Press, 2018.
Contemporary adult fiction.
Lovely young Margaret is engaged to her handsome fiance Chip. Life looks amazing.
Until it's not...and the life that Margaret expected is pulled from underneath her.
This novel is probably not one that you would read if you heard the basic premise, but try it. It is funny, poignant, and life affirming.
Margaret's parents, her estranged sister Kit, and her physical therapist, a Scotsman named Ian who seems moody and silent all contrive to take care of Margaret and motivate her to be a better person.
Just keep reading. I promise you will have to smile at this brave woman's adventures!
When the Men Were Gone: A Novel by Marjorie Herrera Lewis. William Morrow, 2018. Adult fiction.
1944, Brownwood, Texas, in the midst of World War II. Local men have already left for war. Some have come home wounded; others have been killed. When it seems that no one is left to coach the high school football team, Tylene Wilson steps up. Can she do it? Will the players, the community, the refs, the opposing teams, and just about anyone accept her? Or will the season have to be cancelled in this small community where fall is football and football is hope?
Well written and at times poignant, this debut novel gets to the core of loyalty, acceptance, love, and leadership. Characters are lifelike, believable, and charming in their own ways. A great read for any football fan or just for those who like books about strong women!
