Friendship Bread: A Novel

Written in the present tense, Friendship Bread introduces the reader to Avalon, Illinois, and the epitome of small-town America. Most residents have lived in Avalon all their lives and know each other well, which proves to be both a blessing and a curse.

Long-time resident Julia Evarts finds it to be a curse. When her ten-year-old son, Josh, succumbs to a fatal wasp bite five years earlier, Julia blames her younger sister Livvy, who had cared for him that day.

Then Julia gives birth to daughter, Gracie, not long after Josh’s death, but has wrapped herself in misery and heartbreak since. She not only holds Livvy responsible for Josh’s death, but she has cut all ties with her sister, not forgiving what was obviously an accident. Becoming somewhat of a recluse, Julia also cuts herself off from her friends, family and even her husband.

One day, after getting Gracie from school, Julia discovers a package on her front steps. With no indication of its origin and only a note stating, “I hope you enjoy it,” Julia finds a Ziploc bag of Friendship Bread starter batter. Though she wants to pitch it, Gracie begs her not to, wanting to bake the bread instead.

Akin to a chain letter, Friendship Bread is a combination of ingredients used to make a tasty dessert. After adding a few other ingredients and “caring” for the starter for ten days, it is divided and given to others to share.

Julia visits a new tea salon to bring the owner a starter batter. Newcomer and widow, Madeline Davis bought an old Victorian house in the center of town for her new business and home. Though Madeline has had her own share of heartbreak, she is cheerful and optimistic, especially about the future of her new business, which fulfills her love of baking and tea.

While at the tea salon, Julia meets Hannah de Brissay, a talented cellist who played in the Philharmonic Symphony until becoming laid up with a back injury. Married to musician Philippe, they bought a home in Avalon to settle into small-town life. Unfortunately, Philippe stays in Chicago for work and has decided he wants a divorce, leaving Hannah devastated.

This amazing tale shows how Friendship Bread brings together three generations of women, each suffering different tragedies as they help deal with difficult situations. As we delve into these women’s lives, we also learn about other residents of Avalon, and how members of this tiny burg join together to show love, support and comfort to others.

Though the Friendship Bread has overwhelmed many--who aren’t too happy to keep receiving starters—it proves to be a tie to the town’s folk, as well as an offering to others in need. It is remarkable how this comfort food can spread good will, happiness, and change lives.

Reminiscent of Emilie Richard’s Happiness Key series and Debbie Macomber’s Cedar Cove series, Friendship Bread unites all ages and life situations in relationships that are both heartwarming and credible. Ms. Gee supplies the reader with some delicious recipes at the end of the book.