Better Than This - by Cathy Zane (Paperback)

About the Book

When Sarah's seemingly perfect life begins to crumble, she is forced to confront the reality of her abusive marriage and dark past, and it seems all is lost--until she allows the support of friends and a long forgotten, unopened letter to help her find her way back.

Book Synopsis

Sometimes the most enviable life is really a private hell.

On the surface, Sarah Jenkins appears to have it all: a handsome, wealthy and successful husband, a precocious five-year-old daughter, and a beautiful home in an affluent Seattle neighborhood. Her quirky best friend and fellow high school teacher, Maggie, marvels at her luck--and envies her happiness.

But Sarah is far from happy. She feels empty and on edge, harangued by a critical inner voice--and as the truth about her marriage and details of her past emerge, her "perfect" life begins to crumble. But just when it seems all is lost, a long forgotten, unopened letter changes everything, and with the support of friends, Sarah begins to rebuild her life. Can she quiet the critical voice in her head and learn to value herself instead?

Review Quotes

2019 IPPY Silver Medal Winner in Popular Fiction

2019 IBPA Ben Franklin Award Silver Medal Winner in Popular Fiction

"A well-executed tale of abuse, empowerment, and healing."

--Kirkus

"A heartfelt journey of a woman truly coming into her own and discovering who she really is and what she's worth."

--Mia March, author of The Meryl Streep Movie Club and Finding Colin Firth

"Cathy Zane has written a compelling tale of love, manipulation, self-doubt and the power of friendship in overcoming all odds. Better Than This is a page-turner with unexpected twists that will stay with you long after you put it down."

--Phyllis J. Piano, Award-winning author of Love Reconsidered and Hostile Takeover: A Love Story

"An honest portrayal of the power of friendship and the struggles many women face in love and life. Zane is a welcome addition to the world of women's fiction."

--Emily Liebert, Bestselling author of Some Women and Those Secrets We Keep