The Way Back to Happiness - by Elizabeth Bass (Paperback)

About the Book

"Fourteen-year-old Alabama knows next to nothing about her aunt Bev. When her mother's death leaves her in Bev's care, Alabama sets out to find her late father's family, but instead "learns 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." -- Publisher.

Book Synopsis

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 Bass

Wherever 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." --VOYA

About the Author

Elizabeth Bass lives with her husband in Montreal, where she writes and astounds the locals with her makeshift French. An elderly cat or dog can typically be found in her apartment, and during the busiest day, Elizabeth usually finds time to sneak in an old movie. She is the author of many smartly written works of romance and women's fiction, including Summer Days, Life is Sweet, and Wherever Grace is Needed. She loves to hear from readers and can be found on Facebook, Twitter (@ElizabethBass), or at elizabeth-bass.com.