The First Time

After sixteen years of marriage, Mattie Hart discovers yet another affair by her husband Jake, a successful Chicago attorney. Soon after, Mattie receives a devastating ALS diagnosis. As Jake leaves, she fights to protect herself, their teenage daughter Kim, and their fragile bond. A poignant and emotional tale of love, betrayal, tragedy, and healing 

Romantic Times praised it as “a human drama that celebrates life and love… a marvelous story that will leave you cheering.” Kirkus adds it “focuses on the greatest noncriminal peril of all: an early death sentence”