At 37, Gwendolyn Carter's Hollywood dream has not yet taken
off. With supporting roles in a few films, some stage work and a few
commercials, she feels that she has nothing to show for the twenty years she's
spent pursuing her dream. After the two decades away from home, she is expected
to make an appearance for her dad's landmark birthday. While Gwendolyn has a
fair relationship with her father she is set against going back home because of
severe mommy issues particularly her mom's (Carol) complete rejection of her
because of her sexuality. Issues that have made Kept Gwendolyn in therapy for
years and years.
Going back will also bring Gwendolyn face-to-face
with Lila Machowicz, the girl who replaced her as the daughter in the
Carter household. The girl, who by all accounts, her mom loves.
When Gwendolyn reaches home, things are not exactly as she
anticipated. Lila and her parents all unpack into new experiences and
unexpected realities.
This is a book with each character feeling intense emotions.
It is as much about love and loving in different shades and relationships as it
is about falling in love. It is about coming to terms with past wrongs, present
failures and all the greys in people. It draws you into emotions -- complex and
complicated -- deeply.
Zak writes interesting, unusual and unique circumstances in
which the leading ladies meet but their chemistry is so awesome right off the
bat that you are rooting for them all along. Gwendolyn and Lila are wonderful,
wonderful women who deserve love, caring and happiness. It is immensely
satisfying to know that they have the right person I their lives to give them
the love they richly deserve.
Though the driver of the story is Gwendolyn, Lila is also
developed with care and depth.
This is a wonderfully immersive read and highly recommended.
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
