Billionaire Paul Parnell is dead. For many families, the
death of the patriarch is a time of loss and reflection.
For Parnell's brood, it is a time of strained connections
and plans for potential monetary compensation.
However, Paul Parnell had time to do his own reflecting
before his death and decided that his family would learn
from his mistakes. Instead of an immediate payout for those
fortunate -- or unfortunate -- enough to be his children,
Paul created a year-long test of worth. If the grown
children pass the test, one deemed unwavering by several
lawyers, they will receive their share of the inheritance.
The test of their self-discovery is not one that can be
easily completed; Parnell's family members must face their
own mistakes and areas for improvement.
THE TEST is excellent. One might assume it would be a staid
and predictable tale of money-grubbers trying to trick an
aging lawyer. However, THE TEST is an excellent analysis of
personal motivation, a father's last effort to pass on a
moral code under which he never rallied, and family
members' connections to each other. Suspenseful and well-
crafted, this novel is riveting in its development and
completion.
Renowned philanthropist and billionaire Paul Parnell had
reached the pinnacle of monetary success, but not without
cost. Had he put too much emphasis on work and spent too
little time with his family? Determined to leave something
far more valuable than money to his six children, Paul
instructs his lawyers to create an unusual last will and
testament. This unorthodox will, which stipulates that the
lion's share of Paul's two billion dollar estate be given
to the heirs who pass 'the test,' was Paul's last hope of
creating an enduring legacy by inspiring his children to
give back to society and embrace a code of moral values.
The six children-Rory, Frank, Dan, Monica, Carla and
Ashley-have only one year to make a difference. But what a
difference one year will make. Before these six very
different siblings can complete the test, they'll be
forced to face their personal demons and the incredibly
evil influence that could claim one of their own.