Carson Springs

Beneath the tranquil surface of Carson Springs, disputes flare, feuds simmer, and secrets are guarded. In Stranger in Paradise, a woman's love for a much younger man ignites a blaze of disapproval. Goudge's legion of fans will be drawn irresistibly into the life of this beautiful, lush, unique valley where family histories have dangerously deep and tangled roots.

Everyone knows that feisty, sensual Gerry Fitzgerald wasn't always so outspoken. As a young novitiate, Gerry became pregnant, fleeing the altar just as she was about to take her vows and never breathing a word about why. Twenty-eight years later the child she gave up for adoption has returned, a grown woman looking for answers. Now Gerry must learn how to defuse the years of guilt, shame, and bitterness that divide her from her daughter.

After years spent in the shadow of her movie-star sister, Monica, Anna Vincenzi finally remakes herself. But with Monica is murdered, Anna is arrested as the prime suspect. Fortunately, Anna is not alone as she fights to exonerate herself. When a Carson Springs dweller as beloved as Anna needs help, all the valley's residents rally together, each working in his or her own special way to help one of their own.