House of Fragile Dreams

Book excerpt: Still recovering from a divorce and the death of her parents, Rachel is living in the large house she grew up in. Upon meeting an African American veteran and his five-year-old son, she begins to hope for a new life. But when her estranged brother shows up demanding to move in to her back cottage, he threatens to ruin everything. He is disturbed, gun-obsessed, and, as Rachel discovers, involved with people who threaten much more than her dream of a happy home. Addressing themes of love, hate, social fracturing, and violent white supremacy, House of Fragile Dreams is not just a suspenseful love story; it's a poignant reflection of a country in troubled times. "For readers drawn to our contemporary social issues, House of Fragile Dreams is a must read. In crafting this compelling tale of the relationship between a privileged white woman and a struggling black veteran with a child, Moose unapologetically highlights today's hot-button issues of family conflict, race, domestic terrorism, poor choices, and more." - Nancy Klann-Moren, award-winning author of The Clock of Life and Like The Flies On The Patio "On its surface, House of Fragile Dreams is a tale of two estranged siblings: one driven by filial duty and compassion, the other tormented by obsession, and maybe something far darker and more deadly. But, guided by the sure hand of this gifted author, the narrative evolves into an exploration of the machinations of the heart, and the tragic repercussions from a single regrettable decision. The prose itself is confident and conversational, the dialogue both passionate and keenly observed. In all, this lovely book reverberates with realism, insight, and empathy, ultimately revealing an uncommon understanding of the myriad strengths and frailties of the human spirit." - Baron R. Birtcher, award-winning author of Fistful of Rain