Colleen Gallagher has always wanted a closer relationship with her daughter. With a new grandchild on the way, she packs her bags and heads to Washington DC. But the instant she arrives, she learns that her son-in-law has a fatal illness. Fearing what the future holds, Colleen moves into “fix it” mode. As she juggles the multiple roles of grandma, cook, and caregiver, she discovers that even her superhuman efforts and a special “last” Christmas in Vermont can’t fix what’s wrong. Maybe nothing can.
“An affecting, deeply honest novel; at the same time, a lacerating indictment of our modern health care system.” — Kirkus Reviews
“Montpelier Tomorrow is a beautifully written, superbly constructed novel which will almost certainly be the best Family Life/Literary Fiction novel you will read this year.”— Books Butterfly Editorial Reviews
Her friends in Illinois think Colleen Gallagher has it all together: meaningful work, a loving family, and a knack for solving problems. The birth of a second grandchild gives her an excuse to pack her bags and relocate to Washington DC. But when her son-in-law falls ill, this kindergarten teacher and delighted grandma must change her focus from the little ones to the grownups.
As Colleen delves deeper into the details of her son-in-law’s disease, she catches a glimpse of what lies ahead. Colleen’s daughter, a young mom with a high-powered career and two small children, will soon become the caregiver of a dying man.
Colleen tries to warn her daughter, but her warnings fall on deaf ears. The young couple clings to the hope that they can make the most of their remaining time together — romantic getaways and date nights out. The more Colleen tries to penetrate the fog of denial, the more her daughter pushes away, an unfortunate pattern that began in high school — outbursts of anger followed by withering silence.
As Colleen juggles the multiple roles of grandma, cook, and caregiver, she discovers that even her superhuman efforts and a special “last” Christmas in Vermont can’t fix what’s wrong. Maybe nothing can.
If you enjoy flawed yet heroic characters and a powerful mix of tragedy and humor, then you won’t want to miss Montpelier Tomorrow. This beautifully written, literary novel is a testament to the power of a mother’s love and the resilience of the human spirit. Buy Montpelier Tomorrow today.
Winner of a Gold Medal for Drama from Readers’ Favorites International Book Awards.