Elizabeth Berg

Recently widowed and coping with loss and grief, Helen Ames' problems are compounded by the shocking discovery that her mild-mannered husband was apparently leading a double life. Coming to terms with the fact that her retirement fund has been withdrawn without her knowing, Helen finds herself sinking even deeper.

When Sam's husband leaves she is left feeling desperately lonely and bereft. She also has numerous practical problems, an 11-year old son and not enough money. Gradually she gets a job; takes in two lodgers to help pay the mortgage, and from the ruins she eventually finds love again.

Patty Murphy’s biological clock is ticking. The man she loves is sensitive, warm hearted, and gay. Patty refuses to give up on Ethan so in the meantime must content herself with waiting for the real thing to come along.