An Unexpected Grace

Book excerpt: In this uplifting novel, a woman recovering from trauma finds compassion and connection with a rescue dog as they help each other overcome fear. Lila Elliot knows she's lucky to be alive. A shooting rampage at her office left several colleagues dead and others seriously wounded. Though Lila's injuries will heal in time, she's having trouble moving past her fear and anger. Being drafted into caring for Grace—a shaggy, formerly abused golden retriever—only adds to her stress. Lila has been terrified of dogs since childhood. But Grace, like Lila, needs time and space to recover. Grace keeps her distance, sensing Lila's wariness, and only perks up for Adam, the neighbor who rescued her. But as an accomplished artist, Lila begins to see the beauty in Grace's wisps of fur and haunted eyes. Each of them has suffered through no fault of her own. And in helping Grace to trust, Lila begins to develop the courage she needs to do the same. Includes reading group guide