Something Better - RELEASING JUNE 20, 2023
It was only a high school reunion. What was the worst that could happen?
Corinne Fuller has regrets. Facing a stagnant marriage and an impending empty nest, she spends her days living halfway between fantasy and reality, imagining herself as the heroine in a true-love-lost fairytale. When she reluctantly agrees to accompany her best friend on a trip to their hometown, an unexpected encounter with ex-boyfriend Nick offers a tempting glimpse of what might have been (and, as Nick makes clear, what could possibly still be).
Back home, Corinne’s world is in tumult. Are the problems she’s having with her husband signs she made the wrong choice? Meanwhile, her daughter begins a serious relationship with the (literal) boy next door, and Corinne can’t help being nostalgic for the excitement and romance of first love.
Corinne must choose between pursuing “what if?” or embracing “what is” in this coming-of-(middle)-age tale of love, family, and the dangers of attending your high school reunion.
"Don’t miss this splendid debut, which will have you alternately cheering and cringing for Corinne." ~ Charlotte Rains Dixon, author of The Bonne Chance Bakery, book coach, and writing teacher
"Expertly braiding the stories of the past with the realities of the present, SOMETHING BETTER is an unforgettable story of self-discovery and redemption that tugs at the heartstrings in all the best ways. Pour a cup of hot tea and settle in for compelling characters, beautiful writing, and a wholly satisfying read."
~ Rebecca Hodge, award-winning author of Wildland
"GenXers rejoice! Author Joanna Monahan has delivered what we’ve been missing all along! A smart and impactful debut that rings true for an oft-overlooked generation." ~ Jennifer Brasington-Crowley, author of the Raven Song series and Stillwaters trilogy