Dumped for her infertility, she seeks peace and quiet. NOT a giant scandal in a small town. When editor Mary Bellamy tries to start over in tiny, affordable Lawson, New Hampshire, the only companion she wants is a cat. But an unhappily married Episcopal priest seems interested in more than just saving her heathen soul. And a handsome cop who's also an excellent kisser confuses her by supporting gay marriage but also opposing premarital sex. Soon an unexpected job loss leaves her reeling financially. Then she must keep a scandalous secret at great cost to her personal happiness. And her deteriorating ex-husband threatens what little she has left. But while her new small town life has brought Mary plenty of new risks, it may also deliver unexpected blessings. If you enjoy a snarky heroine, an occasionally spicy love story, building suspense, and a genuine moral quandary perfect for book clubs, THE AWFUL MESS will keep you eagerly turning pages. This is a stand-alone novel, but two additional stand-alone novels in this series continue some of these characters' stories while delving into others'. Includes group discussion questions. PRAISE FOR THE AWFUL MESS "It renews me as a reader, to enjoy a book so much; and as a writer, see it done so well." - Tim Farrington, author of THE MONK DOWNSTAIRS "THE AWFUL MESS is a wonderful read!" - Julia Spencer-Fleming, author of IN THE BLEAK MIDWINTER "Read THE AWFUL MESS: A LOVE STORY and you'll go to bed more optimistic than when you got up today." - Hard to Please Book Lover "…utterly delightful and refreshing, with believable, unique characters that drew me in right from the beginning." - Anne M. Bennett "I enjoyed the writing, cared about the characters, and kept turning the pages to find out what would happen next!" - Alec Hastings "The characters are unforgettable. Our 'heroine' is as believably funny, self-critical, bull-headed, and resourceful as your best friend." - E. Browne "5 of 5 Stars.... Yes, it's romance and a love story, but it's much much much more than that." - Sue Ward

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