The Gracie Chronicles by Irene Williams

A musician with a heart of gold makes for an unusual but compelling father figure in The Gracie Chronicles by Irene Williams. This years-spanning novel captures the tragedy and hard-fought triumphs of a non-traditional family, where the bonds of love and protection are often stronger than blood. With touching moments of paternal growth, thought-provoking decisions for parents young and old, and a remarkable young girl at the heart of this story, Williams delivers a powerful take on modern families. Though the dialogue can be awkward, and the plot does have a tendency to wander, this is a patient and compassionate story from an author who clearly understands the exceptional bond between fathers and daughters.