Dorothea Benton Frank was an American novelist celebrated for her Southern fiction. Her works are primarily set in and around the Lowcountry of South Carolina, capturing the unique essence of the region. Frank is best known for her ability to weave compelling narratives that delve into the lives and culture of the American South. Her distinctive voice and engaging storytelling offer readers an authentic glimpse into the heart of this beloved locale.
Set against the backdrop of a South Carolina barbecue celebrating a son's engagement, the story unfolds with intertwining lives and unexpected revelations. Alejandro Cambria, a powerful figure, grapples with the constraints of technology, while family dynamics and social status come into play. As the night progresses, relationships are tested, secrets emerge, and the complexities of love and ambition are explored, highlighting the challenges faced by those navigating high society.
In the Lowcountry of South Carolina, Diane English Stiftel, her brother Floyd, and her parents are throwing a barbecue to celebrate her son's engagement. On this gorgeous, magical night, the bride's father, Alejandro Cambria, a wealthy power broker and one of Chicago's celebrated elite, discovers the limits and possibilities of cell phone range. Meanwhile, mother of the bride, Susan Kennedy Cambria, who dabbles in public relations and believes herself deserving of every square inch of her multimillion-dollar penthouse and imaginary Carrara marble pedestal, learns about moonshine and dangerous liaisons. Soon, and nearly a thousand miles away from her comfortable, familiar world, Diane feels the antithesis of the bright lights and super-sophisticated guests attending her son Fred's second engagement party. Why a second party? Maybe it had been assumed that the first one wouldn't be up to snuff? Fred is marrying Shelby Cambria, also an only child. The Cambrias' dearest wish is for their daughter to be happy. If Shelby wants to marry Frederick, aka Fred, they will not stand in her way -- although Susan does hope her friends won't think her daughter is marrying more than a few degrees beneath her socially. At the same time, Diane worries that her son will be lost to her forever. These two very different worlds -- of limousines and pickup trucks, caviars and pigs, skyscrapers and ocean spray -- feature a cast of characters who all have something to hide and a lot to learn. A difference in legal opinions, a headlong dive from grace, and an abrupt twist will reveal the truth of who they are, and demonstrate what kind of grit they have. Are they living the life they want? What regrets do they hold? And how would they remake their lives if they were given the invitation to do so?
"Dorothea Benton Frank revisits the enchanted landscape of South Carolina's Lowcountry and New York Times bestseller Sullivans Island in her latest novel which follows a young woman as she recovers from the pain of her past and makes a change for the future."-- Provided by publisher
Set in the enchanting Lowcountry of South Carolina, this story explores themes of marriage, love, family, and friendship. The narrative is enriched with the author's signature warm humor and heartfelt storytelling, creating a captivating atmosphere that draws readers into the characters' lives and relationships.
Dorothea Benton Frank's novels feature realistic characters navigating life's profound moments with a blend of wry humor and heartfelt emotion. These smart and witty stories delve into relatable themes, making them compelling reads that resonate with readers. Each narrative offers a soulful exploration of the human experience, ensuring that her works are cherished additions to any bookshelf.
Few writers capture the complexities, pain, and joy of relationships - between friends, family members, husbands and wives, or lovers - as beloved New York Times bestselling author Dorothea Benton Frank. In this charming, evocative, soul-touching novel, she once again takes us deep into the heart of the magical Lowcountry where three amazing women are bonded by another woman's death. Through their shared loss they forge a deep friendship, asking critical questions. Are they living the lives they imagined for themselves? Will they ever be able to afford to retire? How can they maximize their happiness? And, ultimately, their own legacies? A plan is conceived and unfurls with each turn of the tide during one sweltering summer on the Isle of Palms. Without ever fully realizing how close they were to the edge, will they triumph?
Set in the enchanting South Carolina Lowcountry, the narrative follows a tumultuous journey where characters navigate their deep longings and disappointments. As they confront challenges, they strive for a hard-earned happiness, showcasing the resilience of the human spirit amidst the backdrop of a richly depicted landscape.
Theodora navigates the challenges of reuniting her unruly family for Christmas in South Carolina, a stark contrast to the warm, festive holidays of her youth. As the matriarch, she faces the chaos and dysfunction of her relatives, highlighting the complexities of family dynamics during the holiday season.
Experience the sultry Southern atmosphere of Atlanta and the magic of the Carolina Lowcountry in this funny and poignant tale of one audacious woman's quest to find the love she deserves Leslie Anne Greene Carter is The Last Original Wife among her husband Wesley's wildly successful Atlanta social set. But if losing her friends to tanned and toned young Barbie brides isn't painful enough, a series of setbacks shake Les's world and push her to the edge. She's had enough of playing the good wife to a husband who thinks he's doing her a favor by keeping her around. She's going to take some time for herself—in the familiar comforts and stunning beauty of Charleston, her beloved hometown. And she's going to reclaim the carefree girl who spent lazy summers with her first love on Sullivans Island. Daring to listen to her inner voice, she will realize what she wants . . . and find the life of which she's always dreamed. The Last Original Wife is an intoxicating tale of family, friendship, self-discovery, and love that is as salty as a Lowcountry breeze and as invigorating as a dip in Carolina waters on a sizzling summer day.
The story follows Jackie and her son Charlie as they cope with the tragic loss of Jimmy, a fireman who died in the line of duty. Seeking solace, Jackie takes Charlie back to her childhood home on Sullivans Island, where the vibrant landscape and comforting memories offer a chance for healing. The narrative explores themes of grief, family bonds, and the restorative power of returning to one's roots amidst the beauty of the Lowcountry.
