"Emotional Feel-Good Read"

Readers of Ms. Delinsky's LAKE NEWS will become reacquainted with Poppy Blake, a resident of Lake Henry, New Hampshire. Paralyzed from the waist down in a snowmobile accident years ago, Poppy manages well enough on her own but is reluctant to let down her guard.

When the FBI arrests friend Heather Malone for a murder that she supposedly committed under a different name fifteen years ago, Poppy is devastated. But she is no more upset than Micah Smith, Heather's companion whom she has loved for the past four years. Micah doesn't know how he will survive while Heather awaits extradition to California, as she was his helpmate in their maple sugaring business and in his life, and Heather has excelled as a mother to his motherless children, Missy and Star.

Enter Griffin Hughes, writer and friend of Poppy Blake. When learning of Heather's unthinkable arrest, he arrives back in Lake Henry to offer his help. At once wary and attracted, Poppy allows Griffin into her home as long as nothing he does is motivated by pity. Griffin's investigative contacts prove helpful as he aids attorney Cassie in her search for evidence to vindicate Heather.

Ms. Delinsky delves deeply into the many facets of human emotion. No emotional stone is left unturned. From Micah's sense of anger over Heather's betrayal to Poppy's reluctance to forgive herself, the reader is given a bird's- eye-view into the thoughts and hearts of the players in this close-knit community. Add in the fascinating look at the winter maple sugaring process, and the uniting of the residents of Lake Henry, and you have a truly feel good novel.

Reviewed by Sheri Melnick
Posted July 29, 2002