Best Behavior

A divorced mother and almost empty-nester navigates her twins’ graduation weekend with her ex and his second wife in this warm and witty family drama.

Meredith Parker has made the journey to Bolton, her twins’ college, dozens of times. This weekend, though, is different. Dawn and Cody are about to graduate and move away to separate corners of the country. Meredith is proud of her kids, and she’s proud of herself for helping them get this far. She just never expected the tidal wave of emotions sweeping over her—or the tangled family dynamics complicating everything.

Meredith doesn’t miss her cheating ex, Roger, one bit, but sitting across from his very young, very gorgeous second wife threatens to unravel the graceful facade she’s trying so hard to maintain. Joel, Meredith’s husband, can see she’s feeling the first pangs of empty-nest syndrome and wants to soften the blow—but he’s distracted by a familiar face. Meanwhile, Cody and Dawn are sitting on their own secrets, and Roger’s new wife, Lily, wonders if she really wants to be a part of this wild, mixed-up family.

As tensions simmer with each passing appetizer tray, Meredith’s vision of the perfect weekend goes up in flames. But before the party’s over, as best behavior gives way to brutal honesty, there’ll be a chance for this new blended family to truly come together—in all its messy and glorious imperfection.

Praise for Best Behavior

A Lee Woodruff “Book Marks” Pick

A Liz and Lisa Best Book of May

A Zibby Owens Recommended Summer Read

“You can be sure you’re in for some very juicy BAD behavior—and Wendy Francis doesn’t disappoint. With warmth and humor, Best Behavior delivers a delicious family drama; look no further for your perfect poolside read!” —Jamie Brenner, bestselling author of The Forever Summer

“Francis writes with grace, depth and humor about complex family dynamics and the joy and heartache of watching young adults spread their wings and fly from the nest.” —Meg Mitchell Moore, author of The Islanders

“Wendy Francis captures all the joy and pain of being an (almost) empty-nester in her latest novel . . . . A terrific summer read.” —Amy Poeppel, author of Small Admissions