From her "auspicious debut as a talented writer" (The New York Times Book Review) to her comedic voice "reminiscent of Fannie Flagg" (Chicago Tribune), Linda Phillips Ashour continues to capture the attention of reviewers and readers alike. Now in A Comforting Lie -- set in the sumptuous world of interior design -- Ashour masterfully explores the delicate terrain of women who struggle to free themselves from deceptive lovers. A lonely single mother, Helen Patterson, can't help but be drawn to charismatic Ray Richards as his hands run over the lavish furniture in the design shop she manages. Helen is compelled to pursue Ray the only way she knows how -- by decorating his new home. Professional and personal boundaries quickly erode as Helen jeopardizes her job by beginning an illicit, after-hours relationship with Ray. So preoccupied with her passion, Helen fails to see the potential for danger. Only fifteen-year-old Lang senses that Ray's a predator, a man to be feared in spite of the apparent happiness he's brought Helen. When Helen's ex-husband finally intercedes -- revealing strength he never exhibited as a husband or father -- it may be too late to stop the impending explosion of violence. Lyrical and spellbinding, A Comforting Lie is an addictively captivating exploration of the thin line between one woman's passion -- and her terror. Read Less