Casket Case

Debut author Evans’s bittersweet small-town contemporary pairs 30-somethings Nora Clanton and Garrett Bishop, both of whom work in the death care industry because of tragic family losses. Nora has recently inherited her childhood home and family casket-selling business after her parents’ death in a car accident. Returning to her hometown of Rabbittown, Ala., she settles into a routine of selling caskets by day and sipping wine while watching sitcoms from her bed at night. This new normal is disrupted when Garrett, a logistics coordinator working for Death itself, asks Nora for directions, and then on a date. Their initial dates go well, but an anxious Nora is aware Garrett is hiding something from her even as they fall in love. Garrett hopes Nora’s job means she can understand his unusual and difficult vocation, but his secrecy strains their developing relationship. By turns melancholic and sweet, this is a warmhearted tribute to moving forward after loss and the healing power of steadfast love. Evans should win plenty of fans. Agent: Sophie Cudd, Book Group. (Sept.)