Best-selling author Patricia Gaffney weaves a story of three generations coming to terms with each other in 'Circle of Three'. Newly widowed Carrie is coming to terms with her grief ? or lack thereof ? and trying to find the next phase of her life. 15-year-old daughter Ruth finds fault with almost everything her mother does, as she deals with her father's death, her first job, and her budding sexuality. Carrie's mother Dana does her part by trying to set Carrie up with a potential Mr. Wright.

Throwing a monkey wrench into each woman's life is Jess Deeping, Carrie's first love and her new love interest. Ruth adores Jess, until she realizes he's replacing her father in her mother's bed. Dana despises him, for more than the superficial reasons she lets on. Bringing Jess and Carrie together ? to Dana and Ruth's complete dismay ? is a high-profile project helping an aging church leader recreates Noah's Ark at a public dock.

Gaffney writes each chapter in first person, alternating between the three female protagonists. She captures each voice perfectly ? Carrie's uncertainty, Ruth's rebellion, and Dana's meddling ? to the point Ruth takes drastic action to teach mom a lesson. In the end, all three women learn something about themselves and each other.

'Circle of Three' is an enjoyable read and emotional read, a slice-of-life story peopled with well-developed characters dealing with believable situations. It is especially recommended for mothers and daughters struggling to bridge the generation gap.