s and scandals, the latest Depression-era Alabama novel from award-winning, New York Times bestselling author Mary Monroe tells of a mistreated wife who finally finds the love she's longed for--only to be plunged into deceit, betrayal, and murder . . .

As a young woman, Naomi Simmons grabbed her one chance to escape the overwhelming demands of her selfish family by marrying devout older man Jacob Purcell. But it only landed her with a controlling, unfaithful husband who delights in hurling insults at her and their troubled now-teenage daughter, Ethel Mae. So, Naomi is amazed and touched when Homer Clark sees her for the vibrant, intelligent woman she truly is. Believing the handsome, worldly widower is her love of a lifetime, Naomi plans to leave with Homer and start fresh in the big city . . .

Then Jacob suffers a debilitating stroke, and Naomi can't bring herself to abandon him. Unfortunately, Homer refuses to listen--or understand. Relieved when he leaves town and disappears, Naomi dedicates herself to the now-grateful Jacob's care. And she feels truly delighted and blessed when Ethel Mae finally gets her life on track away from home--and comes back with good news . . .

But Ethel Mae's surprise will shock Naomi to her core and threaten everything and everyone she holds most precious. With no one who can help her--or believe her--Naomi battles increasingly insidious mind games even as her world starts falling apart. Can she defeat what appears to be a twisted scheme against her? Or will she be forced into a devastating showdown that will leave no one undamaged--or standing?