The New Normal

Neighbors find love the second time around in this spirited contemporary from Brogan (My Kind of Forever). Ever since Carli Lancaster’s divorce was finalized eight months ago, she’s been doing her best to make ends meet while raising her two teenage daughters. Adding Gus, an oversized and under-trained puppy, to the family only adds to her stress—especially when he pilfers her new neighbor’s T-bone steak right off his grill. Ben Chase is mid-divorce and just wants to be left alone, but he’s drawn to Carli’s personality and good looks. An easygoing friendship soon develops between them, but becomes harder to maintain as their feelings for each other grow. Brogan’s voice is distinct and irresistible, offering both laugh-out-loud scenarios and moments of poignancy as Carli and Ben wade through the murky waters of divorce and single parenthood. Supportive neighbors enhance the hilarity and add a sense of community sure to tug at the heartstrings. This sweet romance is a joy. Agent: Nalini Akolekar, Spencerhill Assoc. (June)