Way Back to Happiness

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