THE INHERITANCE

by Joanna Goodman

This easily readable novel has an intriguing plot that immerses you into the life of family dealing with grief and the aftermath of a husband/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. I found the subplot about elder abuse most fascinating. 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 melodramatic, showing as well as telling, but the dialogue is natural, and it’s always good to see women grow and triumph.