A Borrowed Life

King’s electric latest (after Whisper Me This) details the newfound freedom of a pastor’s wife after the death of her husband. Liz Lightsey’s husband, Thomas, is so domineering and condescending that Liz goes out of her way to please him—if only so he’ll leave her alone. When Thomas dies of a heart attack, Liz sees a chance to restart her life at age 49. She lands a role in a community theater production and finds a new group of friends, among them her handsome costar. But Liz’s 20-something daughter, Abigail, is mortified by Liz’s changes and tries to take over her father’s role as the dominant figure in Liz’s life. As Liz comes to terms with her conflicted feelings toward her late husband and her damaged relationship with her daughter, she also wonders if it’s possible to change her lifelong patterns of self-criticism and doubt. Abigail’s difficult position as a young woman who is coming to terms with the harm her late father caused and the passages where Liz grapples with the memory of Thomas are highlights. While the surprise ending doesn’t quite fit, the character arcs are complex and satisfying. King’s fans will love this tale of rejuvenation. (Sept.)