The Tentative Knock

Paul looked up at me and winked. I felt slightly strengthened by his presence, as long as I didn't think about wanting Randall to be there. It went against my polite instincts to wish for one over the other.

In the tradition of Jennifer Weiner, Camille Pagán, and Erin Hilderbrand, debut author Kelly Capriotti Burton brings a story filled with grief and humor that features a strong, searching, and mature woman -- a perfect read for the beach and the book clubs.

Writer, beachcomber, and supermom of four grown children, Jessie Oakley is looking forward to a slower pace when Randall, her husband of 35 years, finally retires. Instead, she finds herself completely at a loss for her future after he dies suddenly in a tragic accident.

Soon - too soon? - Jessie and her newly widowed co-worker, Paul Jameson, begin to navigate grief together. Maybe no one should be surprised when the two affectionate old friends begin to see each other in a new light, begin to fall in love. Maybe heartbreak really can be sincere and shared all at once. Maybe age fifty-something is not too old for a second-chance at romance. Maybe, somehow, Jessie will find a way to be freed from guilt and doubt and embrace a brand-new chapter in her life.