Local politicians, a shadowy mega-church, a scrappy and unpredictable Texas refugee, and a seemingly endless parade of young women needing help-Laura Aviva Bergman just wanted a puppy and a relaxing retirement. With a dash of humor, action, empathy, and truth, a recently retired woman finds herself enmeshed in the polarizing and perilous world of women facing tough decisions in a post-Roe v. Wade world.
"This novel has it all - a clever, poignant social commentary dressed up as a character-driven page turner. In a magnificent original voice, Susan Solomon addresses what is wrong with our times, then conjures up some astute fixes. Come for the brilliant storytelling and hilarious chapter names, stay for a wild ride on the post-Roe roller coaster." Judy Rothman Rofé, Emmy-Award winning writer and author of The Neurotic Parent's Guide to College Admissions
"Solomon's action-packed novel explores women's rights and bodily autonomy through one woman's decision to join an "underground railroad" enabling access to lifesaving medical care. Strait-laced public relations executive Laura Aviva Bergman starts making "good trouble" in her retirement when a young woman named Mo shows up on the doorstep of her California home under the guise of needing help seeking an abortion. Mo soon confesses that her pregnancy is a lie-but many other girls in her home state of Texas are in desperate need. That's when Mo reveals her true motives: she wants to create a network helping women reclaim the rights Texas laws have taken from them. "We're getting them the abortions they need, but also ... support for, you know, carrying on with their lives." Mo says. Politicians, cops, duplicitous pastors, and a precocious pup round out the cast, with their influence making the ending seem both surprising and inevitable. Fans of stories that focus on contemporary subject matter and feature strong female characters will be deeply engaged in this woman-driven narrative. Solomon crafts a story full of suspense that explores women's struggles and solidarity from multiple angles while encompassing timely themes that will spark deep thought and relevant conversation." - Booklife Review