First an admission. I am a huge fan of Brenda Novak. WHEN LIGHTNING STRIKES won this talented author a special place in my heart. After reading that book, I picked up anything by this awesome writer. Brenda Novak truly has no equal in the character-creating category. And once you start THE TALK OF COYOTE CANYON you will totally understand.

So we have two dysfunctional families. One that broke up leaving some fragments behind that were impossible to glue back together. Ellen took on the role of provider when it became apparent that her mother could just not cope with her life. Ellen didn’t come to Coyote Canyon to necessarily cause a problem, but her arrival certainly affected a lot of people.

Ellen’s father Stuart, his wife Lynn, her son Leo, and nephew Hendrix live in Coyote Canyon. Stuart owns a company that drills wells for water. Hendrix is his right-hand man. Ellen has a similar company and now that she is in Coyote Canyon, the competition is not welcome.

But the business issue isn't the most crucial element. The anger and feelings of being practically dismissed as a daughter is what fuels Ellen. The feelings of hatred for this young woman have also been carefully fostered by Stuart’s new wife. There had been no emotional or financial support coming from Stuart all these years. And Ellen bears the scars.

Somehow along the way, Coyote Canyon brings some peace to Ellen. It is a very caring and inclusive community. Being apart from her mother gives her the space she needs, although the need for support is still alive and well. Ellen has been the source of support for her mother in almost every way. Now she has the freedom to make new friends. And it would surprise many of those with preconceived notions about this young woman.

Leo immediately embraces Ellen whose acceptance and care impress the heck out of Hendrix. Just didn’t fit the person he had been brought up to disregard as impossible.

In THE TALK OF COYOTE CANYON, we watch many lives change and blossom with the acceptance of misguided opinions. The characters actually grow right before our eyes as we witness relationships evolve. Magical. Awesome. Very Brenda Novak. Chalk up THE TALK OF COYOTE CANYON as another must-read by this prolific author.