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If We're Being Honest

By Cat Shook
Author: Cat Shook
ISBN: 9781250847546
ON SALE: 04/18/2023

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ISBN: 9781250847553
ISBN: 9781250882257

For fans of We Are the Brennans by Tracey Lange and All Adults Here by Emma Straub, Cat Shook’s debut novel If We’re Being Honest is the snappy, smart, heartwarming story of the Williams family, and the sweltering summer that rewrote their history.

When Gerry, the beloved Williams patriarch, dies suddenly, his grandchildren flock from across the country to the family home in Eulalia, Georgia. But when Gerry’s best friend steps up to the microphone to deliver his eulogy, the funeral turns out unlike anyone expected. The cousins, left reeling and confused, cope with their fresh grief and various private dramas. Delia, recently heartbroken, refuses to shut up about her ex. Her sister Alice, usually confident, flusters when she spots her high school sweetheart, hiding a secret that will change both of their lives. Outspoken, affable Grant is preening in the afterglow of his recent appearance on The Bachelorette and looking to reignite an old flame with the least available person in town. Meanwhile, his younger brother Red, unsure of himself and easily embarrassed, desperately searches for a place in the boisterous family.

The cousins’ eccentric parents are in tow, too, and equally lost—in love and in life. Watching over them all is Ellen, Gerry’s sweet and proper widow, who does her best to keep her composure in front of the leering small town.

Clever and completely original, If We’re Being Honest reminds you that while no one can break your heart like your family can, there’s really no one better to put you back together.

Catherine Shook Credit MurphyMade-min
Catherine Shook graduated from the University of Georgia in 2016 with degrees in Creative Writing and Mass Media Arts. Born and raised in Georgia, she now lives in Manhattan. This is her first novel.

Praise for Cat Shook

“Pack this one in your beach bag—it’s a delight.”

PureWow

“Cat Shook’s debut novel is a poignant and funny look at one family’s dynamics.” 

Country Living
“[A] heartwarming family saga.”
Good Housekeeping

“Shook’s delightful and perceptive debut follows a family through an eventful week that begins with a funeral and ends with a wedding. . . . Readers will find plenty to savor.”

Publishers Weekly
Starred Review
“[A] witty family drama.”
Booklist

“An appealing, astutely observed debut about familial love and the secrets we keep.”

Kirkus Reviews

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