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Better Than This

Sometimes the most enviable life is really a private hell.

On the surface, Sarah Jenkins appears to have it all: a handsome, wealthy and successful husband, a precocious five-year-old daughter, and a beautiful home in an affluent Seattle neighborhood. Her quirky best friend and fellow high school teacher, Maggie, marvels at her luck—and envies her happiness.

But Sarah is far from happy. She feels empty and on edge, harangued by a critical inner voice—and as the truth about her marriage and details of her past emerge, her “perfect” life begins to crumble. But just when it seems all is lost, a long forgotten, unopened letter changes everything, and with the support of friends, Sarah begins to rebuild her life. Can she quiet the critical voice in her head and learn to value herself instead?

AWARDS
  • IBPA Benjamin Franklin Awards Silver Winner, Popular Fiction category
  • Independent Publisher Book Awards Silver Winner, Popular Fiction category
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Praise for Better Than This

Zane, a therapist and former nurse, does an excellent job of capturing the raw emotions of her characters. The result is a satisfying and cathartic work of women’s fiction that offers an engaging and easy-to-get-into read, perfect for fans of authors Susan Wiggs and Holly Chamberlain. Although it can be painful to read the intimate depictions of emotional abuse, Zane allows the audience to feel like part of Sarah’s support network rather than a voyeur and to ultimately enjoy a difficult story. A well-executed tale of abuse, empowerment, and healing.

Kirkus Review, read full review

An honest portrayal of the power of friendship and the struggles many women face in love and life. Zane is a welcome addition to the world of women’s fiction.

Emily Liebert, bestselling author of Some Women and Those Secrets We Keep

A heartfelt journey of a woman truly coming into her own and discovering who she really is and what she’s worth.

Mia March, author of The Meryl Streep Movie Club and Finding Colin Firth

Cathy Zane has written a compelling tale of love, manipulation, self-doubt and the power of friendship in overcoming all odds. Better Than This is a page-turner with unexpected twists that will stay with you long after you put it down.

Phyllis J. Piano, award-winning author of Love Reconsidered and Hostile Takeover: A Love Story