After numerous failed attempts at re-establishing her Hollywood career, former child star Cilla McGowan returns to her grandmother's farm in Shenandoah Valley, Virginia. She plans to restore it to its former glory. Janet Hardy, her grandmother, was a major star with a tumultuous life that included scandals, famous love affairs, the tragic death of her son and finally her suicide. The farm was a place of healing for her grandmother, and Cilla believes she can begin a new life here far away from her five-time married melodramatic mother. Cilla concentrates on healing her own soul as she begins reacquainting herself with her father and his family. While separating trash from treasures, Cilla finds love letters hidden in an old book. The letters indicate an unexpected pregnancy from a mysterious married man. Cilla tosses them aside not realizing their importance.
Cilla's efforts at rehabbing the house run into vandals who destroy and sabotage her work. Her next-door neighbor, Ford Sawyer, a sexy graphic artist, consoles her and offers stability and acceptance -- something Cilla has never had in her life. How could she not fall in love with this understanding man? Their deepening relationship is interrupted when the vandals attack Cilla's friend and leave him for dead. Ford and Cilla determine someone wants Janet's old love letters and are willing to kill for them.
Ms. Roberts' newest contemporary novel delves into a woman's struggle to redefine herself and find her own version of family. Deft plotting that includes dream sequences where Cilla has conversations with her dead grandmother offer a fascinating past and present combination. Interject that mixture with Cilla's evolving relationships and it makes TRIBUTE a riveting read.
No excerpt available.