18. Tapestry of Fortunes - Elizabeth Berg

2013, Random House
219 pgs.
written for adults
HC $26.00 
Genre:  CRF
Goodreads rating: 3.51
My rating: 4
Acquired:  TPPL

My Goodreads comments:  I read a few reviews before reading this book so decided I wouldn't be disappointed if it wasn't up to par.  However, although there were, yes, weaknesses; this story spoke to me intensely.  It was like it came along purposely at this particular time in my life to send me some subliminal-and some not so subliminal- messages.  Simplify your life.  Being along is not the way life should be led.  Figure out ways to stop paralyzing yourself because, yes, you are definitely doing that.  And....loneliness sucks.  There are many quotes that I've written down that mean a lot. So, yes, I give this book a positive review.  It was just what I needed at this time...at this day...at this moment...of my life.  A pretty-pat plot, no surprises at all, loads of coincidences and more-or-less happy endings for everyone (tralala), but it worked....beautifully....for me.

Goodreads summary:  A wonderful new novel about four women who take a trip into their past, to find again the people they miss, and to reconnect with their fortunes.

Cecilia Ross is looking for a change. She has decided to take time off from her job as a successful motivational speaker and sell her home. She moves in to a beautiful old house in St. Paul, Minnesota, complete with a big front porch, a wild garden, a chef's kitchen-and three roommates. The four women are different ages, but all are feeling restless, and want to take a roadtrip to find again the people and things they miss. One woman wants to connect with a daughter she gave away at birth; another wants to visit her long-absent ex-husband; a third woman, a professional chef, is seeking new inspiration from the restaurants along the way. And Cecilia is looking for Dennis Halsinger, the man she never got over, who recently sent her a postcard out of the blue. This novel is classic Elizabeth Berg-a portrait of how women grow through the relationships that define them, and a testament to the power of female friendship.