The Ex-Debutante
by Linda Francis Lee
Published by St. Martin's Press
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Reviewed by Yuka Mizushima
Carlisle Wainright Cushing has successfully reinvented herself. She’s living in Boston, is engaged to Phillip and enjoys her career as a divorce lawyer. Nobody would guess that Carlisle is a member of THE Wainrights of Willow Creek, Texas. What made her flee? The reasons include a botched attempt at the Texas Dip during her Debutante Ball and falling in love with Jack Blair. However, when Carlisle receives the phone call, she knows it time to go home.
For Carlisle, going home is like having a supporting role on a soap opera: Her mother, Ridgely, is getting a divorce (for the fourth time). Her older brother Henry and his family have relocated back to Willow Creek after their oldest daughter was expelled from numerous schools. Her older sister, Savannah, is desperate to become pregnant. When Carlisle becomes her mother’s attorney, she must face Jack Blair, who is representing her stepfather.
Carlisle’s stay coincides with the Hundredth Annual Willow Creek Symphony Association Debutante Ball where eight young ladies from the best families are presented to society. A Wainright has always chaired the ball, and Carlisle is asked to do her part for the family. Unfortunately last year’s ball was a disaster and no one wants to be a part of this year’s ball. Rejected by respected families, Carlisle finds herself with a motley group of candidates: party girls, rebels and misfits.
Even though it seems like a complete fiasco, could returning to Willow Creek be the best thing for Carlisle?
Humorous and heartwarming, this tale of family and love is hard to put down! It provided a juicy look into the world of Junior Leagues and Debutante Balls. Carlisle is a wonderful main character: she’s smart, sassy and has a big heart (which she tries to hide). Her family is also wonderfully kooky: pedigreed, at times neurotic, but also loving. This family dynamic works–like Carlisle, I found myself caring about these people and wanting to help them. I highly recommend the Ex-Debutante!
Armchair Interviews says: A wonderful, juicy story with lots of heart. Two thumbs up!
Author’s Web site: http://www.LindaFrancisLee.com