After the Happy End by Rita Kinsky tells the story of Victoria, a thirty-something Soviet emigre forced to immigrate to the United States and build a new life. She falls in love with this country where the American dream comes true for any hard-working person with strong values. When her marriage breaks and she is estranged from her son, Victoria must learn to live by herself-easier said than done. Eventually, she finds her way to another man, Alex. The relationship seems to hold all the promise she hoped for. After everything looks so promising, like so often in life, events she couldn't have predicted hijack her dream. Alex's daughter brings troubling challenges into Victoria's world. She realizes that when drugs are involved, even a strong marriage is in danger. Written with humorous and inviting prose, After the Happy End is a fictional work that reflects many women's experiences. This is a must read for parents or for anyone interested in learning more about the emigre experience."