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Best Behavior
A modern-day family gathers for a weekend to remember in a novel rich in both humor and heart…
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.
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.
336 pages, Paperback
First published May 5, 2020
182 people are currently reading
5079 people want to read
About the author
Wendy Francis
17 books339 followersWendy Francis is a former book editor (Houghton Mifflin Co.) and the author of Feels Like Summer, Summertime Guests, Best Behavior, The Summer Sail, The Summer of Good Intentions, and Three Good Things. Her new book, Betting on Good, will be out in May 2025. Her essays have appeared in Good Housekeeping, The Washington Post, YahooParenting, The Huffington Post, and WBUR's Cognoscenti. She lives outside of Boston with her husband and 16-year-old son. For events and updates, check out her webpage at www.facebook.com/wendyfrancisauthor or follow her on Instagram @wendyfrancisauthor.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
May 6, 2020
A beautiful book about the empty nest syndrome, the author could capture the beautiful sentiments in ways which touched my heart.
Different POV showed me the characters' perspective filled with complexities. This was a fab story which was thought-provoking and sensitive with a dash of humor and loads of emotion.
A wonderful read in these tough times.
Different POV showed me the characters' perspective filled with complexities. This was a fab story which was thought-provoking and sensitive with a dash of humor and loads of emotion.
A wonderful read in these tough times.
May 2, 2020
There’s something about summer approaching that makes me want to read about family drama and when a blended family gets together over one long weekend for a college graduation you just know drama will be at the forefront. You have exes and parents of the graduates, Meredith and Roger and then both of their spouses as well as the kids themselves. Blended families are never easy and when there are secrets and lies floating around things get pretty juicy.
While my own kids are nowhere near college graduation age I still found Meredith to be relatable in the way she worries about her children, does a mother’s anxiety ever decrease even when her kids are full fledged adults? I don’t think so. The ensemble cast of characters were quite the lively and quirky bunch, they were all fun and authentic, they type of people you would encounter in your own life. Add in some scandals, a beautiful New England setting, sharp wit and a light mystery and this is a great summer read!
While my own kids are nowhere near college graduation age I still found Meredith to be relatable in the way she worries about her children, does a mother’s anxiety ever decrease even when her kids are full fledged adults? I don’t think so. The ensemble cast of characters were quite the lively and quirky bunch, they were all fun and authentic, they type of people you would encounter in your own life. Add in some scandals, a beautiful New England setting, sharp wit and a light mystery and this is a great summer read!
February 17, 2024
I really enjoyed this story and how the whole extended family played out over a weekend.
April 6, 2020
I wanted to love this one, however, this was a slow and somewhat predictable read for me. Meredith is freaking out about her children graduating from college (nevermind they've been out of her home for 4 years already) and has become the poster-child for empty nester angst. From the very beginning when she was annoyed rather than complimented by her book club members praising her children for graduating and trying to make it a celebration I knew that Meredith and I were going to have issues. Then we she started attributing her son's athletic ability to her letting him turn the den into a weight room, I decided that this was a woman who only defined herself by her children and her role as a mother, which was ridiculous considering her wonderful and admirable career. Honestly, it just got on my nerves and never stopped.
Regardless I gave it a chance and it ended up being a not very exciting story of emotional issues, drugs, drinking, lying, secrets, and so on. Most reviews so far are very positive, so it may just be me and I didn't click with this novel, so give it a try for yourself.
*Thanks to NetGalley for providing this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Regardless I gave it a chance and it ended up being a not very exciting story of emotional issues, drugs, drinking, lying, secrets, and so on. Most reviews so far are very positive, so it may just be me and I didn't click with this novel, so give it a try for yourself.
*Thanks to NetGalley for providing this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
February 8, 2020
Wendy Francis captures all the joy and pain of being an (almost) empty-nester in her latest novel. Picture a college graduation weekend on a lovely New England campus. Now mix in some booze, an ex or two, the in-laws, a trophy wife, and loads of secrets/scandals. Soon enough, no one is behaving at their best. A terrific summer read.
May 3, 2020
The author gives us the story of a mom about to have her twins graduate from College, and the internal dilemma of dealing with her feelings of really becoming an empty nester. She is also going with the husband she loves, and her Mom to the Boston, the place where the college is, but also the place where her ex-husband lives with his very young wife.
There are tons of emotions here, and I even felt sorry for the young wife, Lilly, and how hard she wanted to fit in, the longing to belong.
Also the theme of drugs is here, whether in innocent babies in the NICU, at parties, or on campus, and the results can be devastating.
You will be quickly page turning here to see how this hard weekend for Meredith turns out, and how she will move on with her life.
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Harlequin, and was not required to give a positive review.
There are tons of emotions here, and I even felt sorry for the young wife, Lilly, and how hard she wanted to fit in, the longing to belong.
Also the theme of drugs is here, whether in innocent babies in the NICU, at parties, or on campus, and the results can be devastating.
You will be quickly page turning here to see how this hard weekend for Meredith turns out, and how she will move on with her life.
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Harlequin, and was not required to give a positive review.
May 8, 2020
Meredith Parker is mking her way to her twins’ college as Dawn and Cody are going to graduate and move away. Meredith is a proud mother but she's not ready to face all the emotions that threaten to overwhelm her.
Wendy Francis paints a fascinating picture of a complex family dynamic and the expectation around the graduation. We also see what is expected of her as a mother and she has her own demons to fight in the form of her ex husband.
Best Behavior is the first novel by Wendy Francis I have reviewed and I found the title very apt for the plot. It's doubly fitting as it is what many a mother says before a special event: "I want you on your best behaviour." This makes the title powerful on it's own.
Thanks to Wendy Francis and Graydon House for my ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
Wendy Francis paints a fascinating picture of a complex family dynamic and the expectation around the graduation. We also see what is expected of her as a mother and she has her own demons to fight in the form of her ex husband.
Best Behavior is the first novel by Wendy Francis I have reviewed and I found the title very apt for the plot. It's doubly fitting as it is what many a mother says before a special event: "I want you on your best behaviour." This makes the title powerful on it's own.
Thanks to Wendy Francis and Graydon House for my ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
April 26, 2020
Review to come soon on the blog and all other platforms.
Many thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this arc.
Many thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this arc.
April 30, 2020
Five years ago I read Wendy Francis' Summer of Good Intentions, about three sisters dealing with the death of their father, and loved it so much that it made my list of the Most Compelling Books of 2015.
So I was happy to hear that she has a new book out this week, Best Behavior. Set over a long college graduation weekend, Meredith has to deal with preparing to be an empty nester as her twins, Dawn and Cody, are graduating from her alma mater, Bolton College in Boston.
Meredith is a NICU nurse married to her second husband Joel, a high school guidance counselor. Joel couldn't be more different from her first husband Roger, a highly sucessful Boston lawyer who cheated on his wife and left Meredith when the children were youngsters. Joel is steady, kind and a wonderful stepfather.
Roger is remarried to Lily, a gorgeous Instagram enhancer (not be confused with an influencer) not much older than his children. They live in a huge oceanside mansion where the kids' graduation party is being held.
Change is hard for Meredith. She is sad that this part of her life is over, and her children are setting out on their own lives now. Dawn will be moving to Chicago with her boyfriend, working at a marketing job. Cody is going to North Dakota to teach at a Native American high school.
Dawn feels deeply, is stubborn and was a ballerina until high school. She and her mother had the typical mother/daughter stresses in high school , even moving in with her father in Boston for a year, which upset Meredith greatly.
Cody is the golden boy. He is rock solid, smart, and a football hero. She never had to worry about Cody, although something is bubbling up about him over this graduation weekend that could possibly spoil the celebration.
Trying to be on her best behavior, Meredith decides that she will be as graceful as Jackie Onassis this weekend. She is tested when Roger shows up uninvited to a pre-graduation dinner hosted by the college. Following the ceremony, Roger hosts a graduation at his second wife's favorite restaurant and much to Meredith's chagrin, Lily is there too.
The story culminates at the graduation party where things all come to a head. Can Meredith remain on her best behavior? Anyone who has had to deal with exes, and manuever family gatherings with gritted teeth, will recognize the issues that Meredith must face.
I enjoyed finding a new slang word here- "dosey", which means a person someone can take in small doses. I have a feeling I will be using this word in the future.
Best Behavior took me back to the days of my sons' college graduations and the mixed emotions that I felt. It's a time of reflection, pride, joy and wistfulness. Wendy Francis excels at writing about families at the turning points of life, and she makes you feel a less lonely as you relate to her characters. I recommend Best Behavior.
Thanks to Harlequin for putting me on their Summer Reads Blog Tour.
So I was happy to hear that she has a new book out this week, Best Behavior. Set over a long college graduation weekend, Meredith has to deal with preparing to be an empty nester as her twins, Dawn and Cody, are graduating from her alma mater, Bolton College in Boston.
Meredith is a NICU nurse married to her second husband Joel, a high school guidance counselor. Joel couldn't be more different from her first husband Roger, a highly sucessful Boston lawyer who cheated on his wife and left Meredith when the children were youngsters. Joel is steady, kind and a wonderful stepfather.
Roger is remarried to Lily, a gorgeous Instagram enhancer (not be confused with an influencer) not much older than his children. They live in a huge oceanside mansion where the kids' graduation party is being held.
Change is hard for Meredith. She is sad that this part of her life is over, and her children are setting out on their own lives now. Dawn will be moving to Chicago with her boyfriend, working at a marketing job. Cody is going to North Dakota to teach at a Native American high school.
Dawn feels deeply, is stubborn and was a ballerina until high school. She and her mother had the typical mother/daughter stresses in high school , even moving in with her father in Boston for a year, which upset Meredith greatly.
Cody is the golden boy. He is rock solid, smart, and a football hero. She never had to worry about Cody, although something is bubbling up about him over this graduation weekend that could possibly spoil the celebration.
Trying to be on her best behavior, Meredith decides that she will be as graceful as Jackie Onassis this weekend. She is tested when Roger shows up uninvited to a pre-graduation dinner hosted by the college. Following the ceremony, Roger hosts a graduation at his second wife's favorite restaurant and much to Meredith's chagrin, Lily is there too.
The story culminates at the graduation party where things all come to a head. Can Meredith remain on her best behavior? Anyone who has had to deal with exes, and manuever family gatherings with gritted teeth, will recognize the issues that Meredith must face.
I enjoyed finding a new slang word here- "dosey", which means a person someone can take in small doses. I have a feeling I will be using this word in the future.
Best Behavior took me back to the days of my sons' college graduations and the mixed emotions that I felt. It's a time of reflection, pride, joy and wistfulness. Wendy Francis excels at writing about families at the turning points of life, and she makes you feel a less lonely as you relate to her characters. I recommend Best Behavior.
Thanks to Harlequin for putting me on their Summer Reads Blog Tour.
February 23, 2021
I read this story in what can only be called a highly anticipatory state. Based on the blurb, it felt like I was waiting to come upon the train wreck that the impending weekend promised. Admittedly I was looking for a drama-filled read and being in the heads of family members at odds with themselves, I had great expectations. With a blended family situation, this domestic drama is told from a few different points of view, and I quickly saw that my needs would be well met.
Centered around the college graduation weekend of twins Dawn and Cody, their mother Meredith grapples with her long time ex Roger, and his new wife Lily, hosting the big celebration party. But before that, they must get through pre-party events including a mixer, the actual graduation, and the post-graduation dinner.
The story is mostly given to us from Merediths' POV, she spends a lot of time reminiscing and through the weekend activities and we learn a lot about the history of this family. She's long been remarried to Joel who has been a great partner and stepfather. But as each of the main character's insights are shared, as they navigate their interactions with each other, we quickly come to understand the current dynamics.
There were many moments where I expected major fireworks, but everyone seems to be treading water, coping in their own way. As the events of the weekend unfold, they all realize things aren't exactly as they seem, people aren't what you make them out to be, and in a pivotal moment in life, assumptions must be reexamined.
Wendy Francis delivered on the promise of an engrossing read, with complex characters in potentially tumultuous life moments, who are working through conflicting emotions. 5 Stars and recommendation!!
* received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Centered around the college graduation weekend of twins Dawn and Cody, their mother Meredith grapples with her long time ex Roger, and his new wife Lily, hosting the big celebration party. But before that, they must get through pre-party events including a mixer, the actual graduation, and the post-graduation dinner.
The story is mostly given to us from Merediths' POV, she spends a lot of time reminiscing and through the weekend activities and we learn a lot about the history of this family. She's long been remarried to Joel who has been a great partner and stepfather. But as each of the main character's insights are shared, as they navigate their interactions with each other, we quickly come to understand the current dynamics.
There were many moments where I expected major fireworks, but everyone seems to be treading water, coping in their own way. As the events of the weekend unfold, they all realize things aren't exactly as they seem, people aren't what you make them out to be, and in a pivotal moment in life, assumptions must be reexamined.
Wendy Francis delivered on the promise of an engrossing read, with complex characters in potentially tumultuous life moments, who are working through conflicting emotions. 5 Stars and recommendation!!
* received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
May 4, 2020
Meredith and her second husband Joel are headed to Bolton College for her twins' graduation. Her ex, Roger, the twins' father, is also their with his second wife, Lily. She really feels empty nest syndrome because even though the twins were in college, they were only a few hours drive away. Now that the twins, Cody and Dawn are graduating, they are moving far away to start their new lives.
Also attending the graduation is both sets of grandparents. So this huge blended family are about to see Cody and Dawn receive their diplomas. All Meredith wants is for things to go without a hitch. One character I especially enjoyed in this book was Meredith's mom. I think her character gave a lot of flavor to this book.
There was also something seriously wrong with one of the characters - and I won't spoil the name in this review. The situation was very serious and the author did an excellent job by writing this into the story. That part of the story really broke my heart.
The only reason that this book gets three stars is that Meredith had such jealousy towards Roger's wife. I couldn't understand how since she has been happily married for years to Joel, she could be so jealous of Lily. That was the only downside of the book. Otherwise, as a mother facing empty nest syndrome I truly related to Meredith. Despite the one annoyance, I really did enjoy Best Behavior and I do look forward to reading more from Wendy Francis in the future.
Many thanks to Graydon House and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Also attending the graduation is both sets of grandparents. So this huge blended family are about to see Cody and Dawn receive their diplomas. All Meredith wants is for things to go without a hitch. One character I especially enjoyed in this book was Meredith's mom. I think her character gave a lot of flavor to this book.
There was also something seriously wrong with one of the characters - and I won't spoil the name in this review. The situation was very serious and the author did an excellent job by writing this into the story. That part of the story really broke my heart.
The only reason that this book gets three stars is that Meredith had such jealousy towards Roger's wife. I couldn't understand how since she has been happily married for years to Joel, she could be so jealous of Lily. That was the only downside of the book. Otherwise, as a mother facing empty nest syndrome I truly related to Meredith. Despite the one annoyance, I really did enjoy Best Behavior and I do look forward to reading more from Wendy Francis in the future.
Many thanks to Graydon House and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
April 26, 2020
Best Behavior by Wendy Francis has Meredith Parker along with her husband, Joel and her mother, Carol are heading to Bolton College in Boston, Massachusetts for the graduation of her twins, Dawn and Cody. Meredith is not looking forward to seeing her ex-husband, Roger and his bride of six months, Lily along with Roger’s extended family. Meredith has a variety of emotions swirling through her. She is proud of the twins graduating from college, but also upset because they moving to different states. Of course, Meredith is not the only one worried about the upcoming weekend. The tension is palpable from the beginning. Best behavior can only so last so long and then watch out. Best Behavior is a story about a blended family trying to get through seventy-two hours. There is a banquet to attend, graduation, Roger’s elaborate graduation party as well as get the twins moved out of their dorm rooms. They all want the weekend to go well, but there is always tension when families get together. Meredith is especially touchy because she is going to miss her children who will soon be living in different states. She resents her ex-husband, Roger who is now wealthy and flaunts it (I believe Meredith needed a better divorce attorney). Meredith loved raising her kids and now is not sure who she is without them. Best Behavior has secrets, lies, anger, drugs, bitterness, jealousy, love, and vast quantities of alcohol (they will need it to get through the weekend). I do want to mention there is foul language in the book (I know people use it, but I still find it offensive). The point-of-view alternates between Meredith, Joel, Dawn, Cody, and Lily. It can be a little confusing at first until you adjust. It does allow you to see each situation from different perspectives. You never truly know what another person is thinking, feeling, or going through as we discover. The book is well-written with complex characters. I liked that there was humor sprinkled throughout to help lighten the tale. Best Behavior shows the complex dynamics of a blended family. Escape reality for a time by diving into Best Behavior.
May 29, 2020
I whipped through this book in two days. I wasn't sure where the book was going but liked the idea of a graduation weekend (and so interesting that it was set in the month the book came out - but written before the pandemic was know, as of course the graduation couldn't have happened in May 2020! Such a weird time we are living in).
I was reminded of Maeve Binchy with this one where some of the characters you don't like initially you come around to liking at the end.
This would be a good book club pick, and there are good book club discussion questions at the end.
I was reminded of Maeve Binchy with this one where some of the characters you don't like initially you come around to liking at the end.
This would be a good book club pick, and there are good book club discussion questions at the end.
May 9, 2020
This complicated and charming family drama follows a unique family through a long-anticipated graduation weekend. When ex-husband and wife bring their new families together to celebrate the end of college for their twin son and daughter, they expected some tense moments and complications.
The unknown of the weekend went far beyond what they could have imagined. The characters are well developed and uniquely intertwined. This was a wonderful reminder of the complexity and connectedness of family. I highly recommend this read!
Thank you to NetGalley and Graydon House for an advanced copy.
The unknown of the weekend went far beyond what they could have imagined. The characters are well developed and uniquely intertwined. This was a wonderful reminder of the complexity and connectedness of family. I highly recommend this read!
Thank you to NetGalley and Graydon House for an advanced copy.
May 13, 2020
3.5 stars rounded to 4.
This story takes place over a weekend that is celebrating the graduation from college for the twins Dawn and Cody. The twins are part of two families, their parents having divorced when they were about twelve.
There is quite a bit of tension surrounding the weekend. Their mother Meredith and step father Joel want to negotiate the days in a way that they will remain calm and sane. Meredith is dealing with the fact that her children are grown up and she is fearing that this is where it all stops for her. They'll be adults who no longer need her. Joel has helped raise these two and all he wants to do is see this weekend through with all its potential for chaos.
Roger - the twins' hot shot lawyer Dad is aiming to give the twins a great time. His young wife Lily is totally wanting to be included in the family, to be accepted and liked. However there is quite some bad vibes coming her way from Dawn and Meredith. As well Lily is beginning to question her life and needs.
We are given the viewpoints from Meredith, Joel, Cody, Dawn and Lily. As a reader that helps you to understand the fears and anxieties of each of these loveable but flawed characters. I especially liked this aspect of the writing, being able to walk a little while alongside each one.
During the few days things go radically awry, although not in the way I might have first predicted. As the story came to crisis point I was turning the pages to see what would happen.
This story takes place over a weekend that is celebrating the graduation from college for the twins Dawn and Cody. The twins are part of two families, their parents having divorced when they were about twelve.
There is quite a bit of tension surrounding the weekend. Their mother Meredith and step father Joel want to negotiate the days in a way that they will remain calm and sane. Meredith is dealing with the fact that her children are grown up and she is fearing that this is where it all stops for her. They'll be adults who no longer need her. Joel has helped raise these two and all he wants to do is see this weekend through with all its potential for chaos.
Roger - the twins' hot shot lawyer Dad is aiming to give the twins a great time. His young wife Lily is totally wanting to be included in the family, to be accepted and liked. However there is quite some bad vibes coming her way from Dawn and Meredith. As well Lily is beginning to question her life and needs.
We are given the viewpoints from Meredith, Joel, Cody, Dawn and Lily. As a reader that helps you to understand the fears and anxieties of each of these loveable but flawed characters. I especially liked this aspect of the writing, being able to walk a little while alongside each one.
During the few days things go radically awry, although not in the way I might have first predicted. As the story came to crisis point I was turning the pages to see what would happen.
May 10, 2020
2.5 maybe 3 stars? I wish I liked this one more than I did. I could sympathize with Meredith for her situation. Empty nest syndrome is closer for me than I want to admit. Despite that I found her a little depressing. In fact, I think the only character I really liked was Joel. I found the book a bit repetitive and found myself skimming in places. I think it just wasn't for me.
August 25, 2020
Best Behavior by Wendy Francis
Graydon House
May 5, 2020
10-15258004626
Contemporary Women's Fiction
Many of today's families are blended with step-siblings and half-siblings. Sometimes this combination works well, other times it doesn't, for often, there is resentment and jealousy among those forced into changing their lives.
Meredith Parker, mother of twins was married to Roger Landau for 15 years when she gets replaced by a younger and sexier trophy wife. After spending 13 years of her marriage raising her beloved Dawn and Cody, she is relieved to be free of her often-absent and egotistical husband.
Roger is a gregarious, well-to-do attorney who spends all his time working. Resentful after his children are born because he believes they are taking Meredith's time away from him, he seeks out adoration from other women. Though he loves his kids, he feels abandoned by Meredith, who not only raises the twins but works as a full-time NICU nurse caring for at-risk infants. She can only stretch so far.
Meredith, now married for seven years to Joel Parker, is content. Joel is a burly counselor working with troubled youth at a high school outside of New Haven, Connecticut. Not only does Joel adore her kids, but he also puts the family and Meredith first in his life, yet he still gives his career 100 percent, for he relates well to youngsters and has empathy for them.
Now the twins are grown and about to graduate from Bolton College in the Boston area. This is where Meredith graduated, and she's proud they decided to attend her alma mater. Studies come easy for Cody, and he shines as a star athlete, whereas Dawn has had to struggle in every class she attended. Now they are ready to start a new life: Cody accepting a position to teach history in North Dakota, while Dawn is headed to Chicago to work for an ad agency. Meredith, both proud and excited, is also starting to feel the "empty-nest" syndrome, even though her offspring have been away at college for four years.
Excitement abounds as Joel, Meredith, and Meredith's mom Carol head to Boston for a long weekend of activities. Joel, ever conscious of his wife's feelings, hopes things will go well as he knows only too well the friction between her and Roger and Lily, his young wife of six months. Roger's parents and brother will also be there, and they always deemed Meredith was beneath their son.
Meredith splurges and reserves rooms for them at the Boston Harbor Hotel to enjoy the luxurious accommodations. She wonders if Lily will outshine her with her younger sexier body, but she reminds herself this is the kids' time and not to concern herself about Lily and Roger. Even though she holds no remaining love for Roger, anyone could understand why she'd be ambivalent about this gathering.
The night before commencement, at the awards banquet, both Dawn and Cody believe they will win something: him for athletics and her for her scholastic achievement after she worked so hard to make the dean's list. But they are surprised when neither of them wins a coveted award, especially when Dawn thought she was finally upstaging Cody.
Enduring the blustering heat and humidity which is unusual for this time of year, everyone tries to be companionable and get along. Roger shows up unexpectedly at the banquet. Friction mounts between him and Joel as to who "possesses" Meredith. Happy Lily isn't present; part of her enjoys the "boys" trying to mark their territory.
Meredith wants the weekend to run smoothly, but as with a combative group gathering, this is not the case. The graduation itself holds some glitches, and there is speculation if Cody will receive his diploma. They all end up in the dean's office and Joel is worried about his stepson and chastises himself for not paying more attention to him.
The day after the ceremony, Roger and Lily host a lavish party for the twins at their pretentious and opulent mansion. Meredith believes their set up would be more suited for nuptials than for a graduation and reflects on the day she married Roger:
"In contrast, she remembers more about her and Roger's wedding day and less about their years together as a family. Maybe it's because Roger, determined to log the insane hours to make partner at his firm, was so seldom around when the kids were young. Or maybe it's simply because when she'd married him, she was young enough to care about the details of her wedding day. Naively, she'd assumed that a beautiful wedding ensured a beautiful life together."
Now, she's come full circle and realizes she and Roger were an imperfect match. And he now has Lily, a young wife he can parade around as his mid-life crisis. Lily wants nothing more than for all of them to be one big happy family, but hostilities abound as she and Meredith clash.
Is Lily hoping for too much and trying too hard? Later circumstances show a perspective into the relationship of everyone, and the party quickly winds down.
Written with aplomb and style, Best Behavior gives a peek behind someone else's closed doors showing the vulnerability of all concerned while offering well-written prose and a cast of characters to whom many can relate.
Graydon House
May 5, 2020
10-15258004626
Contemporary Women's Fiction
Many of today's families are blended with step-siblings and half-siblings. Sometimes this combination works well, other times it doesn't, for often, there is resentment and jealousy among those forced into changing their lives.
Meredith Parker, mother of twins was married to Roger Landau for 15 years when she gets replaced by a younger and sexier trophy wife. After spending 13 years of her marriage raising her beloved Dawn and Cody, she is relieved to be free of her often-absent and egotistical husband.
Roger is a gregarious, well-to-do attorney who spends all his time working. Resentful after his children are born because he believes they are taking Meredith's time away from him, he seeks out adoration from other women. Though he loves his kids, he feels abandoned by Meredith, who not only raises the twins but works as a full-time NICU nurse caring for at-risk infants. She can only stretch so far.
Meredith, now married for seven years to Joel Parker, is content. Joel is a burly counselor working with troubled youth at a high school outside of New Haven, Connecticut. Not only does Joel adore her kids, but he also puts the family and Meredith first in his life, yet he still gives his career 100 percent, for he relates well to youngsters and has empathy for them.
Now the twins are grown and about to graduate from Bolton College in the Boston area. This is where Meredith graduated, and she's proud they decided to attend her alma mater. Studies come easy for Cody, and he shines as a star athlete, whereas Dawn has had to struggle in every class she attended. Now they are ready to start a new life: Cody accepting a position to teach history in North Dakota, while Dawn is headed to Chicago to work for an ad agency. Meredith, both proud and excited, is also starting to feel the "empty-nest" syndrome, even though her offspring have been away at college for four years.
Excitement abounds as Joel, Meredith, and Meredith's mom Carol head to Boston for a long weekend of activities. Joel, ever conscious of his wife's feelings, hopes things will go well as he knows only too well the friction between her and Roger and Lily, his young wife of six months. Roger's parents and brother will also be there, and they always deemed Meredith was beneath their son.
Meredith splurges and reserves rooms for them at the Boston Harbor Hotel to enjoy the luxurious accommodations. She wonders if Lily will outshine her with her younger sexier body, but she reminds herself this is the kids' time and not to concern herself about Lily and Roger. Even though she holds no remaining love for Roger, anyone could understand why she'd be ambivalent about this gathering.
The night before commencement, at the awards banquet, both Dawn and Cody believe they will win something: him for athletics and her for her scholastic achievement after she worked so hard to make the dean's list. But they are surprised when neither of them wins a coveted award, especially when Dawn thought she was finally upstaging Cody.
Enduring the blustering heat and humidity which is unusual for this time of year, everyone tries to be companionable and get along. Roger shows up unexpectedly at the banquet. Friction mounts between him and Joel as to who "possesses" Meredith. Happy Lily isn't present; part of her enjoys the "boys" trying to mark their territory.
Meredith wants the weekend to run smoothly, but as with a combative group gathering, this is not the case. The graduation itself holds some glitches, and there is speculation if Cody will receive his diploma. They all end up in the dean's office and Joel is worried about his stepson and chastises himself for not paying more attention to him.
The day after the ceremony, Roger and Lily host a lavish party for the twins at their pretentious and opulent mansion. Meredith believes their set up would be more suited for nuptials than for a graduation and reflects on the day she married Roger:
"In contrast, she remembers more about her and Roger's wedding day and less about their years together as a family. Maybe it's because Roger, determined to log the insane hours to make partner at his firm, was so seldom around when the kids were young. Or maybe it's simply because when she'd married him, she was young enough to care about the details of her wedding day. Naively, she'd assumed that a beautiful wedding ensured a beautiful life together."
Now, she's come full circle and realizes she and Roger were an imperfect match. And he now has Lily, a young wife he can parade around as his mid-life crisis. Lily wants nothing more than for all of them to be one big happy family, but hostilities abound as she and Meredith clash.
Is Lily hoping for too much and trying too hard? Later circumstances show a perspective into the relationship of everyone, and the party quickly winds down.
Written with aplomb and style, Best Behavior gives a peek behind someone else's closed doors showing the vulnerability of all concerned while offering well-written prose and a cast of characters to whom many can relate.
April 28, 2020
I have also reviewed the novel for New York Journal of Books where it will be posted the evening before the publication date.
"Best Behavior: by Wendy Francis
Graydon House
May 5, 2020
10-15258004626
Contemporary Women's Fiction
Many of today's families are blended with step-siblings and half-siblings. Sometimes this combination works well, other times it doesn't, for often, there is resentment and jealousy among those forced into changing their lives.
Meredith Parker, mother of twins was married to Roger Landau for 15 years when she gets replaced by a younger and sexier trophy wife. After spending 13 years of her marriage raising her beloved Dawn and Cody, she is relieved to be free of her often-absent and egotistical husband.
Roger is a gregarious, well-to-do attorney who spends all his time working. Resentful after his children are born because he believes they are taking Meredith's time away from him, he seeks out adoration from other women. Though he loves his kids, he feels abandoned by Meredith, who not only raises the twins but works as a full-time NICU nurse caring for at-risk infants. She can only stretch so far.
Meredith, now married for seven years to Joel Parker, is content. Joel is a burly counselor working with troubled youth at a high school outside of New Haven, Connecticut. Not only does Joel adore her kids, but he also puts the family and Meredith first in his life, yet he still gives his career 100 percent, for he relates well to youngsters and has empathy for them.
Now the twins are grown and about to graduate from Bolton College in the Boston area. This is where Meredith graduated, and she's proud they decided to attend her alma mater. Studies come easy for Cody, and he shines as a star athlete, whereas Dawn has had to struggle in every class she attended. Now they are ready to start a new life: Cody accepting a position to teach history in North Dakota, while Dawn is headed to Chicago to work for an ad agency. Meredith, both proud and excited, is also starting to feel the "empty-nest" syndrome, even though her offspring have been away at college for four years.
Excitement abounds as Joel, Meredith, and Meredith's mom Carol head to Boston for a long weekend of activities. Joel, ever conscious of his wife's feelings, hopes things will go well as he knows only too well the friction between her and Roger and Lily, his young wife of six months. Roger's parents and brother will also be there, and they always deemed Meredith was beneath their son.
Meredith splurges and reserves rooms for them at the Boston Harbor Hotel to enjoy the luxurious accommodations. She wonders if Lily will outshine her with her younger sexier body, but she reminds herself this is the kids' time and not to concern herself about Lily and Roger. Even though she holds no remaining love for Roger, anyone could understand why she'd be ambivalent about this gathering.
The night before commencement, at the awards banquet, both Dawn and Cody believe they will win something: him for athletics and her for her scholastic achievement after she worked so hard to make the dean's list. But they are surprised when neither of them wins a coveted award, especially when Dawn thought she was finally upstaging Cody.
Enduring the blustering heat and humidity which is unusual for this time of year, everyone tries to be companionable and get along. Roger shows up unexpectedly at the banquet. Friction mounts between him and Joel as to who "possesses" Meredith. Happy Lily isn't present; part of her enjoys the "boys" trying to mark their territory.
Meredith wants the weekend to run smoothly, but as with a combative group gathering, this is not the case. The graduation itself holds some glitches, and there is speculation if Cody will receive his diploma. They all end up in the dean's office and Joel is worried about his stepson and chastises himself for not paying more attention to him.
The day after the ceremony, Roger and Lily host a lavish party for the twins at their pretentious and opulent mansion. Meredith believes their set up would be more suited for nuptials than for a graduation and reflects on the day she married Roger:
"In contrast, she remembers more about her and Roger's wedding day and less about their years together as a family. Maybe it's because Roger, determined to log the insane hours to make partner at his firm, was so seldom around when the kids were young. Or maybe it's simply because when she'd married him, she was young enough to care about the details of her wedding day. Naively, she'd assumed that a beautiful wedding ensured a beautiful life together."
Now, she's come full circle and realizes she and Roger were an imperfect match. And he now has Lily, a young wife he can parade around as his mid-life crisis. Lily wants nothing more than for all of them to be one big happy family, but hostilities abound as she and Meredith clash.
Is Lily hoping for too much and trying too hard? Later circumstances show a perspective into the relationship of everyone, and the party quickly winds down.
Written with aplomb and style, "Best Behavior" gives a peek behind someone else's closed doors showing the vulnerability of all concerned while offering well-written prose and a cast of characters to whom many can relate.
"Best Behavior: by Wendy Francis
Graydon House
May 5, 2020
10-15258004626
Contemporary Women's Fiction
Many of today's families are blended with step-siblings and half-siblings. Sometimes this combination works well, other times it doesn't, for often, there is resentment and jealousy among those forced into changing their lives.
Meredith Parker, mother of twins was married to Roger Landau for 15 years when she gets replaced by a younger and sexier trophy wife. After spending 13 years of her marriage raising her beloved Dawn and Cody, she is relieved to be free of her often-absent and egotistical husband.
Roger is a gregarious, well-to-do attorney who spends all his time working. Resentful after his children are born because he believes they are taking Meredith's time away from him, he seeks out adoration from other women. Though he loves his kids, he feels abandoned by Meredith, who not only raises the twins but works as a full-time NICU nurse caring for at-risk infants. She can only stretch so far.
Meredith, now married for seven years to Joel Parker, is content. Joel is a burly counselor working with troubled youth at a high school outside of New Haven, Connecticut. Not only does Joel adore her kids, but he also puts the family and Meredith first in his life, yet he still gives his career 100 percent, for he relates well to youngsters and has empathy for them.
Now the twins are grown and about to graduate from Bolton College in the Boston area. This is where Meredith graduated, and she's proud they decided to attend her alma mater. Studies come easy for Cody, and he shines as a star athlete, whereas Dawn has had to struggle in every class she attended. Now they are ready to start a new life: Cody accepting a position to teach history in North Dakota, while Dawn is headed to Chicago to work for an ad agency. Meredith, both proud and excited, is also starting to feel the "empty-nest" syndrome, even though her offspring have been away at college for four years.
Excitement abounds as Joel, Meredith, and Meredith's mom Carol head to Boston for a long weekend of activities. Joel, ever conscious of his wife's feelings, hopes things will go well as he knows only too well the friction between her and Roger and Lily, his young wife of six months. Roger's parents and brother will also be there, and they always deemed Meredith was beneath their son.
Meredith splurges and reserves rooms for them at the Boston Harbor Hotel to enjoy the luxurious accommodations. She wonders if Lily will outshine her with her younger sexier body, but she reminds herself this is the kids' time and not to concern herself about Lily and Roger. Even though she holds no remaining love for Roger, anyone could understand why she'd be ambivalent about this gathering.
The night before commencement, at the awards banquet, both Dawn and Cody believe they will win something: him for athletics and her for her scholastic achievement after she worked so hard to make the dean's list. But they are surprised when neither of them wins a coveted award, especially when Dawn thought she was finally upstaging Cody.
Enduring the blustering heat and humidity which is unusual for this time of year, everyone tries to be companionable and get along. Roger shows up unexpectedly at the banquet. Friction mounts between him and Joel as to who "possesses" Meredith. Happy Lily isn't present; part of her enjoys the "boys" trying to mark their territory.
Meredith wants the weekend to run smoothly, but as with a combative group gathering, this is not the case. The graduation itself holds some glitches, and there is speculation if Cody will receive his diploma. They all end up in the dean's office and Joel is worried about his stepson and chastises himself for not paying more attention to him.
The day after the ceremony, Roger and Lily host a lavish party for the twins at their pretentious and opulent mansion. Meredith believes their set up would be more suited for nuptials than for a graduation and reflects on the day she married Roger:
"In contrast, she remembers more about her and Roger's wedding day and less about their years together as a family. Maybe it's because Roger, determined to log the insane hours to make partner at his firm, was so seldom around when the kids were young. Or maybe it's simply because when she'd married him, she was young enough to care about the details of her wedding day. Naively, she'd assumed that a beautiful wedding ensured a beautiful life together."
Now, she's come full circle and realizes she and Roger were an imperfect match. And he now has Lily, a young wife he can parade around as his mid-life crisis. Lily wants nothing more than for all of them to be one big happy family, but hostilities abound as she and Meredith clash.
Is Lily hoping for too much and trying too hard? Later circumstances show a perspective into the relationship of everyone, and the party quickly winds down.
Written with aplomb and style, "Best Behavior" gives a peek behind someone else's closed doors showing the vulnerability of all concerned while offering well-written prose and a cast of characters to whom many can relate.
April 8, 2020
First, I would like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this book! I thought the writing style was very easy to get into and flowed very well. As for the actual story, its about a woman whose twins are about to graduate from college and enter the real world 1,000 miles away from her (ND and Chicago, respectively). She is a woman who has really found her identity in her role as a mother, so the idea of them living so far away is really hard for her. All the empty-nest emotions, combined with the idea of spending a full weekend with her new husband, ex husband, his new wife, her ex in laws, and the whole crazy crew feels like a lot. She's going to try to be on her "best behavior" through all of the festivities, but its definitely not easy! What follows is an entertaining and realistic feeling story about the beauty and drama of blended families. There are some drug issues, some academic cheating issues, and an appearance from the one who got away. I thought our main character was really relatable and the relationship between the twins was pretty true to life. Both have their own issues, but they look out for each other and seem to be great friends. Overall this was a very fun ride with enough deeper issues to keep it interesting and realistic.
SPOILERS AHEAD:
Meredith is married to Joel now. She used to be married to Richard and together they had Cody and Dawn. Cody has always been the golden boy, gifted at football and academics. Dawn was a little more of a wild card. She was a very gifted ballerina but then gave it up when all of the restriction and rigor got to be too much. She's not as gifted academically and she feels like 2nd best. As the graduation weekend progresses, we learn more about all of the characters. Cody has been abusing Adderall and also wrote one kids paper for him. Dawn got in trouble for academic cheating, but she was actually innocent. I liked that we saw the gray sides of them and that defining either as good or bad (troubled or not) is dangerous. Dawn's situation ended in a change in testing policy, but Cody is still in danger of not graduating. He gets off the hook in the end, but theres a lot of drama surrounding his cheating and drug use. As for Meredith and Joel, I thought their relationship was very sweet and Joel seemed like the ultimate husband. He put up with so much and also comforted her and supported her in her times of insecurity. However, he runs into Kat-- his "one that got away" at the graduation festivities because she also has a daughter graduating. The drama is quickly nipped in the bud though when we find out that Kat is now married to a woman! Richard and his new wife, Lily, also had an interesting story line. Lily is new to the family (married 6-7 months as opposed to Joel's 6-7 years) and shes MUCH younger than Richard. However, she's not the bimbo type you often read about in books. She's smart and is genuinely trying to make nice with the kids and Meredith. She's hosting a lot and she's so stressed about it, she starts taking Oxy that she had been taking from Richard's injury stash, and then from a dealer. The book ends with her passing out from an OD and Meredith coming to the rescue to save her. The very end is super sweet with Meredith, Joel and the kids taking a picture that reflects their joy and love for each other and the whole crazy family!
I really enjoyed this book! I thought the writing style was very easy to get into and flowed very well. As for the actual story, its about a woman whose twins are about to graduate from college and enter the real world 1,000 miles away from her (ND and Chicago, respectively). She is a woman who has really found her identity in her role as a mother, so the idea of them living so far away is really hard for her. All the empty-nest emotions, combined with the idea of spending a full weekend with her new husband, ex husband, his new wife, her ex in laws, and the whole crazy crew feels like a lot. She's going to try to be on her "best behavior" through all of the festivities, but its definitely not easy! What follows is an entertaining and realistic feeling story about the beauty and drama of blended families. There are some drug issues, some academic cheating issues, and an appearance from the one who got away. I thought our main character was really relatable and the relationship between the twins was pretty true to life. Both have their own issues, but they look out for each other and seem to be great friends. Overall this was a very fun ride with enough deeper issues to keep it interesting and realistic.
SPOILERS AHEAD:
Meredith is married to Joel now. She used to be married to Richard and together they had Cody and Dawn. Cody has always been the golden boy, gifted at football and academics. Dawn was a little more of a wild card. She was a very gifted ballerina but then gave it up when all of the restriction and rigor got to be too much. She's not as gifted academically and she feels like 2nd best. As the graduation weekend progresses, we learn more about all of the characters. Cody has been abusing Adderall and also wrote one kids paper for him. Dawn got in trouble for academic cheating, but she was actually innocent. I liked that we saw the gray sides of them and that defining either as good or bad (troubled or not) is dangerous. Dawn's situation ended in a change in testing policy, but Cody is still in danger of not graduating. He gets off the hook in the end, but theres a lot of drama surrounding his cheating and drug use. As for Meredith and Joel, I thought their relationship was very sweet and Joel seemed like the ultimate husband. He put up with so much and also comforted her and supported her in her times of insecurity. However, he runs into Kat-- his "one that got away" at the graduation festivities because she also has a daughter graduating. The drama is quickly nipped in the bud though when we find out that Kat is now married to a woman! Richard and his new wife, Lily, also had an interesting story line. Lily is new to the family (married 6-7 months as opposed to Joel's 6-7 years) and shes MUCH younger than Richard. However, she's not the bimbo type you often read about in books. She's smart and is genuinely trying to make nice with the kids and Meredith. She's hosting a lot and she's so stressed about it, she starts taking Oxy that she had been taking from Richard's injury stash, and then from a dealer. The book ends with her passing out from an OD and Meredith coming to the rescue to save her. The very end is super sweet with Meredith, Joel and the kids taking a picture that reflects their joy and love for each other and the whole crazy family!
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April 20, 2020BEST BEHAVIOR
BY WENDY FRANCIS
This novel of contemporary literary fiction was a slow burn character study of all of the underlying dynamics of a blended family. Told mostly from Meredith's point of view as the mother of fraternal twins named Cody and Dawn. The premise is about Meredith coming to terms being an empty nester and she is emotional but everyone in this story is trying to put up a facade and be on their best behavior over a period of 72 hours. Everyone involved is trying to get through this college graduation. Meredith and her ex husband Roger have a prickly relationship. Roger has brought his trophy wife named Lily who is young enough to be his daughter. Meredith is also remarried to Joel who is a school guidance counselor.
Cody pulls a prank during the college commencement and the family is stunned when Meredith's mother Carol asks both twins to see their college diplomas and Cody's is missing from the envelope. Instead is a note to see the Dean who suspects that Cody wrote a psychology paper in exchange for some adderall. The Dean only has a photograph of Cody and another male exchanging a backpack with a paper with an anonymous note. Since he hasn't any real proof of Cody's wrongdoing Cody gets his college diploma after Roger obnoxiously takes the Dean out in the hall to have a private chat using his lawyer skills.
Throughout this 72 hour period this dysfunctional family experiences very different emotions. For Meredith it represents the beginning of the period of time that she will lose her two kids. For Lily who feels isolated and alone it represents becoming part of the family. For the twins it's a chance at finally striking out to build a new season of their lives and becoming independent. Cody is moving to North Dakota at the end of the Summer. For Dawn she is moving with her boyfriend Matt to Chicago.
Why do you think we all put forward our best behavior around the people who are supposed to love us the most? Throughout this novel perceptions change about one another. Also the past and present collide time again and again.
Thank you to Net Galley, Wendy Francis and Harlequin Trade Publishing for providing me with my ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Publication Date: May 5, 2020
#BestBehavior #WendyFrancis #HarliquinTradePublishing #NetGalley
BY WENDY FRANCIS
This novel of contemporary literary fiction was a slow burn character study of all of the underlying dynamics of a blended family. Told mostly from Meredith's point of view as the mother of fraternal twins named Cody and Dawn. The premise is about Meredith coming to terms being an empty nester and she is emotional but everyone in this story is trying to put up a facade and be on their best behavior over a period of 72 hours. Everyone involved is trying to get through this college graduation. Meredith and her ex husband Roger have a prickly relationship. Roger has brought his trophy wife named Lily who is young enough to be his daughter. Meredith is also remarried to Joel who is a school guidance counselor.
Cody pulls a prank during the college commencement and the family is stunned when Meredith's mother Carol asks both twins to see their college diplomas and Cody's is missing from the envelope. Instead is a note to see the Dean who suspects that Cody wrote a psychology paper in exchange for some adderall. The Dean only has a photograph of Cody and another male exchanging a backpack with a paper with an anonymous note. Since he hasn't any real proof of Cody's wrongdoing Cody gets his college diploma after Roger obnoxiously takes the Dean out in the hall to have a private chat using his lawyer skills.
Throughout this 72 hour period this dysfunctional family experiences very different emotions. For Meredith it represents the beginning of the period of time that she will lose her two kids. For Lily who feels isolated and alone it represents becoming part of the family. For the twins it's a chance at finally striking out to build a new season of their lives and becoming independent. Cody is moving to North Dakota at the end of the Summer. For Dawn she is moving with her boyfriend Matt to Chicago.
Why do you think we all put forward our best behavior around the people who are supposed to love us the most? Throughout this novel perceptions change about one another. Also the past and present collide time again and again.
Thank you to Net Galley, Wendy Francis and Harlequin Trade Publishing for providing me with my ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Publication Date: May 5, 2020
#BestBehavior #WendyFrancis #HarliquinTradePublishing #NetGalley
May 6, 2020
Best Behavior by Wendy Francis opens with Meredith Parker, her husband Joel and her mother Carol heading to Boston, Massachusetts for the graduation of her twins, Dawn and Cody. None of them are looking forward to seeing her ex-husband Roger and his young bride Lily or Roger’s parents, but have vowed to be on their Best Behavior for the sake of the twins. Meredith is full of emotions, from pride to sadness as the twins will be moving away for work. She is also somewhat jealous of Lily and Roger's success. She wants to be gracious toward Roger and his family, but it is not always that easy. There is tension from the first moment at the college and it continues throughout the weekend. Can Meredith be on her Best Behavior?
I really enjoyed this book. Having already gone through the empty nest period, I can relate to what Meredith was feeling. We want our children to grow up and become strong individuals, but we also want things to remain the same. Cody and Dawn have had their problems along the way and there is some baggage there that adds some drama to this story. I loved Joel and what a great stabilizing influence he was in this story. Of course it is college graduation, so throw in some booze, some partying and some drugs and you know someone is going to say or do something that will throw good intentions out the window and it isn't all going to be the younger generation. The story is told from various points of view, Meredith, Joel, Dawn, Cody, and Lily, which allows the reader to see each situation from different perspectives, although until the end, you don't truly know what the other person is thinking or feeling. Best Behavior is well-written and plotted with complex characters. The story is quite realistic and thought provoking with some humor mixed in with the more serious moments. The back of the book has discussion questions for a book club as well as a short interview with the author. I liked that I was able to reflect more on what I had read. I enjoyed this one and recommend it to those who like a good family story. The publisher provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
I really enjoyed this book. Having already gone through the empty nest period, I can relate to what Meredith was feeling. We want our children to grow up and become strong individuals, but we also want things to remain the same. Cody and Dawn have had their problems along the way and there is some baggage there that adds some drama to this story. I loved Joel and what a great stabilizing influence he was in this story. Of course it is college graduation, so throw in some booze, some partying and some drugs and you know someone is going to say or do something that will throw good intentions out the window and it isn't all going to be the younger generation. The story is told from various points of view, Meredith, Joel, Dawn, Cody, and Lily, which allows the reader to see each situation from different perspectives, although until the end, you don't truly know what the other person is thinking or feeling. Best Behavior is well-written and plotted with complex characters. The story is quite realistic and thought provoking with some humor mixed in with the more serious moments. The back of the book has discussion questions for a book club as well as a short interview with the author. I liked that I was able to reflect more on what I had read. I enjoyed this one and recommend it to those who like a good family story. The publisher provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
May 3, 2020
Best Behavior takes place over the long weekend of college graduation for a not so perfectly blended family. It is told by the voices of the graduates, Dawn and Cody, their mother Meredith and her husband Joel, and their father Peter and his new young wife Lily. All must come together for a series of events at Bolton College, culminating with a congratulatory party at Roger and Lily’s oceanfront mansion.
With seamless movement through past and present, author Wendy Francis shows us the workings of three marriages. First Meredith and Peter, who divorced when the twins were 12. Meredith, a nurse, sees herself as a mother, good at what she does, forged by the daily work of dealing with twins. Interestingly, Peter, a successful sports attorney, tells Lily that he “lost” Meredith when the twins were born and she put motherhood first. Meredith is now happily married to Joel, a counselor of troubled teenagers. You see how much more relaxed Meredith is with him but also how he lacks Peter’s drive. Peter has now been married to Lily for six months. Lily is awed by her new lifestyle, trying to please Peter but lonely and bored.
As the novel progresses through small skirmishes, college pranks, insecurities and anger, family problems bubble to the surface. Best Behavior is a beautiful, sensitive, emotional guide to making a family and finding love and forgiveness. 5 stars.
With seamless movement through past and present, author Wendy Francis shows us the workings of three marriages. First Meredith and Peter, who divorced when the twins were 12. Meredith, a nurse, sees herself as a mother, good at what she does, forged by the daily work of dealing with twins. Interestingly, Peter, a successful sports attorney, tells Lily that he “lost” Meredith when the twins were born and she put motherhood first. Meredith is now happily married to Joel, a counselor of troubled teenagers. You see how much more relaxed Meredith is with him but also how he lacks Peter’s drive. Peter has now been married to Lily for six months. Lily is awed by her new lifestyle, trying to please Peter but lonely and bored.
As the novel progresses through small skirmishes, college pranks, insecurities and anger, family problems bubble to the surface. Best Behavior is a beautiful, sensitive, emotional guide to making a family and finding love and forgiveness. 5 stars.
May 9, 2020
I don't read a lot of chick-lit/women's fiction, but I could certainly identify with Meredith being an empty nester, which is what I think drew me to this one. There were things I liked about Meredith and things that kind of rubbed me the wrong way, but that's merely the sign of a well-rounded character. After all, how many people do we meet in real life and actually like every single thing about them? Anyway, this story is told from a handful of perspectives and everyone has a secret as this blended family gets ready for a graduation weekend. Did I like every character? Definitely not, but like them or not, this group of characters certainly made for interesting drama. And let's be honest, we all kind of enjoy the bird's eye view of family drama as long as it's not our own. So, there you have it - An entertaining bit of family drama in a story that has a steady enough pace to make for a good bit of beach reading or a pretty good way to while away a weekend.
May 22, 2020
A huge thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with an ARC of this title.
We invest a lot of time and resources in our children, and when we launch them into the world it can be a bittersweet experience.
Wendy Francis's newest book perfectly captures the inherent conflict in that experience. She also tackles the angst and tension that are a natural part of trying to meld blended families, the generational values that can prevent us from seeing each other clearly, and the need for brutally honest conversations about our feelings.
Meredith is a heroine whose struggles you will relate to and empathize with.
This plot includes all of the dicey situations a road trip and a retreat can evoke - and is about bringing a family closer together by making them confront what is keeping them apart. Sometimes the boulder that is weighing on your heart is really nothing more than a beach pebble when you share it with those you love.
We invest a lot of time and resources in our children, and when we launch them into the world it can be a bittersweet experience.
Wendy Francis's newest book perfectly captures the inherent conflict in that experience. She also tackles the angst and tension that are a natural part of trying to meld blended families, the generational values that can prevent us from seeing each other clearly, and the need for brutally honest conversations about our feelings.
Meredith is a heroine whose struggles you will relate to and empathize with.
This plot includes all of the dicey situations a road trip and a retreat can evoke - and is about bringing a family closer together by making them confront what is keeping them apart. Sometimes the boulder that is weighing on your heart is really nothing more than a beach pebble when you share it with those you love.
December 12, 2020
A family splitting up is never easy. It's hard on everyone involved, but especially when there are children to take into consideration. Couple that with you now adult children getting ready to start their lives and it can turn even the most sane woman into a maniac for a little bit.
Meredith tries very hard to make sure the weekend is perfect. It's the last hoorah for her twins. The last event before they are off and starting their own lives. But when ex's and new partners are involved even the best laid plans will somehow go awry.
The author captures perfectly the family dynamic and its struggles. Having a blended family myself I know how hard it can be in certain situations. The important thing is to be there for the children no matter what and to try and put your personal differences aside. Like with Meredith it's easier said than done.
A great family story about coming together and letting go.
Meredith tries very hard to make sure the weekend is perfect. It's the last hoorah for her twins. The last event before they are off and starting their own lives. But when ex's and new partners are involved even the best laid plans will somehow go awry.
The author captures perfectly the family dynamic and its struggles. Having a blended family myself I know how hard it can be in certain situations. The important thing is to be there for the children no matter what and to try and put your personal differences aside. Like with Meredith it's easier said than done.
A great family story about coming together and letting go.
May 12, 2020
Even if I am not a mother I appreciated this story of complex family relationships and coming to term with new situations.
The story is told by the POV of the different characters and I loved how the author made them evolve and come to term with the tensions and their own issues.
The plot is well crafted and flows keeping you hooked, the characters are fleshed out and I appreciated the character development.
My favorite character was Joe because he is the one who is able to see things as they are and to support the characters in different moment.
It's the first book I read by this author and won't surely be the last because I found it engrossing and entertaining.
I strongly recommend it.
Many thanks to Graydon House and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
The story is told by the POV of the different characters and I loved how the author made them evolve and come to term with the tensions and their own issues.
The plot is well crafted and flows keeping you hooked, the characters are fleshed out and I appreciated the character development.
My favorite character was Joe because he is the one who is able to see things as they are and to support the characters in different moment.
It's the first book I read by this author and won't surely be the last because I found it engrossing and entertaining.
I strongly recommend it.
Many thanks to Graydon House and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
May 3, 2020
Huge thanks to the publishers for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for impartial review – and for the chance to share en excerpt today as well! I am extremely pleased to share my thoughts about this book because it was one of those smooth easy reads that just flowed nicely without too much frustration and the odd family drama to keep things ticking over. Summer and the warmer temperatures makes me want to read about family drama! And there’s no shortage of family drama throughout this book. Blended families can be a challenge for many and Wendy Francis navigates this one with great style and talent. All the joy (and pain) of almost having an empty nest is captured nicely in this book and you will not be sorry to lose yourself for a few days in the pages.
May 31, 2023
3.5 stars. Very solid, relatable read, with interesting family dynamics. There is some drama, but nothing super crazy, and it takes place over only 3 days (I like a shortened timeline). While I did enjoy the varying perspectives (Meredith coming to terms with her twins graduating college and growing up; Joel the stepfather helping her cope; Lily the stepmother struggling to find her place; the kids themselves grappling with getting through this milestone), it also made the story a little repetitive as often more than one would recount the same scene from their point of view. Overall I recommend.
May 1, 2020
i was not very impressed with this book, i found that it dragged a lot and stating the same thing over...and over...and over again in just a different way. i understand the character is going thru empty nesters issues...but 3 pages of it to say it different ways i didn't like. it had a good story background to it, family drama, mixed family relations all gathered for a weekend to celebrate a graduation. even tho i did not like the writing,
May 7, 2020
This was the fourth book I have read written by Wendy Francis. This book was quite different from her others but they were all good reading. This was the story of a dysfunctional blended family who love one another mostly and are just trying to get through the graduation weekend of their twins, a boy and a girl. The whole book covers 72 hours but it covered so many feelings and emotions. It was really good reading.
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