Raising Hope is the ultimate depiction of four women finding the balance between loving
others and staying true to themselves.
Ruth Teller, a tough-talking woman, faces life head on. Loss may have rocked her world,
but she'll do whatever she must to see that her niece, Hope, gets a proper upbringing--even
if it means moving in with perfect and prissy Sara Lynn Hoffman. Ruth's job as a waitress
doesn't allow her to hide from life, but her emotions, other than her love for Hope, are
off limits until life throws an unexpected curve.
Sara Lynn has sacrificed everything, including her first love, in order to meet others'
expectations. Since she gained joint custody of Bobby's child, she has hidden behind her
familial obligations. Life has thrust before her a second chance at love, but in order
to claim it Sara Lynn must risk everything.
Aimee Hoffman has devoted her entire life to raising the child she never thought she'd
have, and Sara Lynn has been perfect. Almost. Her daughter's indiscretion with Bobby
Teller may have been a good thing after all, considering the joy Hope and Ruth have brought
to the household. However, children have a way of growing up and away. Will she find
the strength to cut the apron strings?
Unusual family dynamics complicate Hope Teller's typical teenage concerns about puberty,
friendships, and the future. Her mother's death, her father's abandonment, and the new
roads Ruth and Sara Lynn choose, help to teach Hope the true meaning of family and love.
Raising Hope is an exquisite garden, the beauty of which brought tears to my eyes.
Each woman's past, weeds and all, provides the perfect nourishment for the fertile plot.
Ms. Willard uses first person wisely; though separated by chapters, the women's individual
voices easily identify which character is speaking and allow readers to develop an intimacy
that third person sometimes inhibits. Downplayed settings only enhance this character
driven novel.
A long time has passed since any author has delved so lovingly into the female psyche,
and Ms. Willard has made the wait worthwhile. This novel is a must read!