Review of Best Behavior by Wendy Francis

 I received a copy of this title via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 

A modern-day family gathers for a weekend to remember in a novel rich in both humor and heart…

Meredith Parker has made the journey to Bolton, her twins’ college, dozens of times. This weekend, though, is different. Dawn and Cody are about to graduate and move away to separate corners of the country. Meredith is proud of her kids, and she’s proud of herself for helping them get this far. She just never expected the tidal wave of emotions sweeping over her—or the tangled family dynamics complicating everything.

Meredith doesn’t miss her cheating ex, Roger, one bit, but sitting across from his very young, very gorgeous second wife threatens to unravel the graceful façade she’s trying so hard to maintain. Joel, Meredith’s husband, can see she’s feeling the first pangs of empty-nest syndrome and wants to soften the blow—but he’s distracted by a familiar face. Meanwhile, Cody and Dawn are sitting on their own secrets, and Roger’s new wife, Lily, wonders if she really wants to be a part of this wild, mixed-up family.

As tensions simmer with each passing appetizer tray, Meredith’s vision of the perfect weekend goes up in flames. But before the party’s over, as best behavior gives way to brutal honesty, there’ll be a chance for this new blended family to truly come together—in all its messy and glorious imperfection.

My Review:

4 Stars

A family splitting up is never easy. It's hard on everyone involved, but especially when there are children to take into consideration. Couple that with you now adult children getting ready to start their lives and it can turn even the most sane woman into a maniac for a little bit. 

Meredith tries very hard to make sure the weekend is perfect. It's the last hoorah for her twins. The last event before they are off and starting their own lives. But when ex's and new partners are involved even the best laid plans will somehow go awry. 

The author captures perfectly the family dynamic and its struggles. Having a blended family myself I know how hard it can be in certain situations. The important thing is to be there for the children no matter what and to try and put your personal differences aside. Like with Meredith it's easier said than done. 

A great family story about coming together and letting go.