Autumn Spring

After a somewhat choppy opening, Thrasher’s unique and exquisite take on romance in a small town offers a new and welcome perspective on mature relationships. Bree Principal fled a failed relationship with Ann White, her East Texas hometown’s golden girl, and never looked back. Little did she know that Ann’s little sister, Linda Morton, had been harboring some tender feelings of her own. Fifty years later, Bree’s world changes when her mother’s injury pulls her back to the place where she grew up—and back under Ann’s spell. Only now, Linda’s out, proud, and willing to fight for the woman she wants. The focus on the empowerment of older women serves to underscore both the charm of life at a slower pace and the sweetness of new relationships. Readers will find it deeply refreshing to see female characters who are defined as much by their kindness and grace as by their chosen roles in life. (Aug.)