In just a few pages Susan Mallory has you absolutely hooked in CALIFORNIA GIRLS. Be prepared to be very angry sad and happy almost simultaneously. That takes talent and Susan Mallery has it in abundance.

The sisters are thrown into turmoil not of their making. Talk about victims. Two watched established relationships disappear in seconds with no warning and the third was basically dismissed. Two are truly left adrift but luckily have their sisters to lean on. I especially love when one sister volunteers to remove the miserable ex fiancé's liver. Only kidding of course. But quite tempting in these situations. Oh, and did I fail to mention Susan Mallery's brand of humor, quite evident in CALIFORNIA GIRLS that features some of the best conversations.

Feckless men. Sad excuse for gentlemen for sure and yet two of these sisters had convinced themselves that these men loved them. They were good friends and trustworthy. Both were very wrong and left with the matter of trusting again. Each sister has some issues with self-image although to each other they are held on a sort of pedestal. They have achieved success in their chosen careers and jobs. They are smart and resourceful and yet brought to their knees by some undeserving guys.

Story begins with Finola whose husband Nigel brashly announces he is having an affair with a twenty something singer who has a history with married men. But Nigel is certain that doesn't include him. Yeah he's special. Got the picture?

Ali's fiancé decides he doesn't want to get married about six weeks prior to their wedding. Glen is such a jerk that he sends big brother Daniel to break the news. Glen can't even begin to guess the consequence of that decision.

And Zennie is facing a decision and contemplating something that will likely change her entire life.

You might think that Susan Mallery would be content with the direction it seems her characters are headed but that just wouldn't do. So along the way these sisters are going to have moments that require sincere introspection to the point of acknowledging their part in the detours of their lives. Facing your own mistakes and owning up to them is a difficult step. But in CALIFORNIA GIRLS Susan Mallery brings such honesty that you will find yourself either nodding or shaking your head. There are no guarantees in life or love. The lesson in CALIFORNIA GIRLS is that what you get is the result of your personal investment. Susan Mallery makes these characters take a good look at themselves. Susan Mallery once again creates very special and wondrous characters that will have your feelings run the entire gamut.