About the novel, from the publisher:
When her husband’s tragic death uncovers long-buried secrets, a young mother fights to protect her family and heal her heart in an emotionally resonant novel about loss, love, and second chances.Visit Mara Williams's website.
After her husband’s sudden death, Beatrice Bell retreats to her childhood home in California’s Sierra mountains with her rebellious teenage twins in tow. Her plan is to take over her parents’ antique store, ensure it survives another generation, and build a new life from the rubble of the old one.
But Bea didn’t plan on Simon, the gruff store manager with his own ambitions for the business. As they’re forced to work together, animosity gives way to grudging respect and ignites an unexpected spark. Before Bea can find her footing, everything is upended. First by River, a local boy who bears a striking resemblance to her late husband. Then by her estranged mother-in-law, who reveals devastating secrets that will test everything Bea believed about her marriage.
As Bea navigates grief, betrayal, and an unexpected connection with Simon, she finds that it may be possible to begin again, but only if she confronts the truth of her past.
Q&A with Mara Williams.
The Page 69 Test: The Truth Is in the Detours.
My Book, The Movie: The Truth Is in the Detours.
Writers Read: Mara Williams (August 2025).
My Book, The Movie: The Epicenter of Forever.
Writers Read: Mara Williams (February 2026).
The Page 69 Test: The Epicenter of Forever.
--Marshal Zeringue