Title:American Family
Author:Catherine Marshall-Smith
Published:June 2017, She Writes Press
Format:Paperback, 360 pages
Richard and Michael,
both three years sober, have just decided to celebrate their love by
moving in together when Richard driven by the desire to do the right
thing for his ten-year-old-daughter, Brady, whom he has never met
impulsively calls his former father-in-law to connect with her. With
that phone call, he jeopardizes the one good thing he has his
relationship with Michael and also threatens the world of the
fundamentalist Christian grandparents who love Brady and see her as
payback from God for the alcohol-related death of her mother. Unable to
reach an agreement, the two parties hire lawyers who have agendas far
beyond the interests of the families and Brady is initially trusted into
Richard and Michael s care. But when the judge learns that the young
girl was present when a questionable act took place while in their
custody, she returns Brady to her grandparents. Ultimately, it s not
until further tragedy strikes that both families are finally motivated
to actually act in the best interests of the child.
What readers are saying:
“A nuanced portrait of what it means to be a family, with a bit of melodrama but plenty of heart.” ―Kirkus Reviews
“A
poignant literary pageant of custody battles, alchoholism, religious
restraint and family turmoil, this tremendously moving read will leave
you in bouts of feels all summer long.” ―Redbook
“An
emotionally gripping read that explores the deepest of cracks in a
dysfunctional family, this poignant book belongs in the hands of every
parent this summer.” ―Working Mother
“This emotionally
gripping tale about a gay man who must battle his way to sobriety and
convince his ex father-in-law he is worthy of a relationship with his
10-year-old daughter will leave every dad moved. If you want your gift
to finally induce your dad to weep in your presence, this might be your chance.” ―Popsugar
“When
Richard confronts his daughter’s fundamentalist Christian grandparents
for a second chance at fatherhood, the most emotionally harrowing and
heavy family drama of 2017 unfolds. Be sure you pack tissues in the
glove compartment.” ―Brit+Co
“A heartbreaking and emotionally
riveting reading experience that reminds readers that most every
American family has its dysfunctional ghosts. This explosive novel will
add drama to your summer from Page 1.” ―SheKnows
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American Family by Catherine Marshall-Smith is one of BookSparks “Summer Reads” reading selection picks.
Follow the #SRC2017 hashtag on twitter to read reviews on this book as well
as reviews on the other summer books! Also, be sure to check out the BookSparks Facebook page for the#SRC2017
and other fun links. You can participate in weekly secret missions for
chances to win signed copies of selected books and more! There’s a new
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