The Young Widower's Handbook

Desolation. In his debut novel titled, The Young Widower’s Handbook, Tom McAllister reveals wisdom far beyond his years. Following the sudden death of his wife, Kait, protagonist Hunter Cady’s grief makes him numb and desolate. Kait’s Philadelphia family overwhelm Hunter, and he flees them, taking Kait’s ashes on a journey west, a trip they should have taken when she was alive. McAllister uses humor to great effect, adds a great cast of characters, especially in the road trip, and develops Hunter with insight into the process of grief. I enjoyed the finely written prose and reveled in the love between Kait and Hunter. The journey from desolation to consolation is well-traveled and this portrait of a marriage is finely drawn. Rating: Four-star (I like it) Click here to purchase The Young Widower’s Handbook from amazon.com.