THE INHERITANCE

by Joanna Goodman

This easily readable novel has an intriguing plot that takes you into the life of family dealing with grief and the aftermath of a husband and father’s death. But it is really a mother-daughter story, told from both their POVs, moving from the past to the present, involving an exciting court case. The thing I find most interesting is the subplot of elder abuse. Virginia, the protagonist’s flirtatious mother, tries online dating and becomes the victim of a hideous assault. Goodman handles this beautifully. The scenes showing Virginia’s shame, inner torment, and interactions with her support group, are sensitively written and full of insight. Some of Goodman’s overstated descriptions are a bit melodramatic, showing as well as telling, but the dialogue is natural, and it’s always good to see women grow and triumph.