Once Upon a River, By Bonnie Jo Campbell

Very unusual story.  It seemed like it could have taken place in the 1930’s but add 50 years and the way they lived seems off.  Margo’s mother deserts the family that lives very simply along the river.  Margo has always been a river rat gal, swimming in the river, hunting and fishing, a loner,  not liking to mix with folks or with students at school.  Her excellent shooting skills causes a tragedy she can’t live with so she is on her own in a small boat on the river.  Living with questionable men, never staying put, causing another tragedy, running further down the river.  Even finding her mother is a total loss for her.  Weird characters in this book, especially Margo!  She gets by for years with less that I can imagine, but chance catches up with her when, after a chance encounter,  she finds out she is going to be a mother.  Again she finds men who help her but again there are complications.  Then the book ends.  No it stops  6 out of 10.

A Girl's Guide to Moving On by Debbie Macomber

Two women face divorce and moving on.  One after 35 years, most of which she knew her husband was cheating and her daughter-in-law, who filed for divorce the first time she knew her husband was cheating.  Yes, like father like son.  Both help each other carve out new lives and meet new loves, but the path isn’t easy or the book wouldn’t be as good as it is!  8 out of 10.  One of Macomber’s better books.