Last One Home by Debbie Macomber

A comparatively gentle read as this author is noted for.  No explicit violence or sex.  Ms. Macomber leaves it to the reader's imagination.  When patrons came into the library in search of good stories I might recommend for a maiden aunt or grandmother, this author's works came to mind first.  I never recall anyone coming back and saying that the stories weren't graphic enough.  Nine times out of ten they came back totally appreciative of the suggestion and wanting to read more of this author's work.

Last One Home is the story of a family of three sisters.  It is reflective of the indisputeable bond that exists between siblings, even those who may have been separated for decades.  Each of the sisters has her own problems to deal with.  All of the issues are not fully revealed until the end of the story but the reader can readily assume that their lives are not perfect. The other thread that connects all three is their fierce independence and although life gives them valleys, they all exhibit and inner strength that propells them forward.

Cassie is the middle sister who runs away from home at the age of 18, following a catastrophic event. During the time she is away, life happens.  Her parents die.  Her sisters marry and have children. Cassie returns to her home state of Washington and is contacted by one of her sisters. The sisters reconnect and the family is reborn.

I've never read a book by this author that I didn't like.  That's saying quite a bit because many prolific authors cannot seem to maintain the caliber of some of their strongest work across the board.  So, thank you Debbie Macomber for using your Godgiven talent so beautifully over the years.

Ladybookbug!