this book is about Theresa, an older woman who ends up moving to France when she is forced into retirement. presented as someone who has spent much of her life tending to others' needs, Theresa is finally doing something for her own happiness and enjoyment.

this series was recommended as a mystery, which I think is only nominally applicable. it was quite fun to read. it's written in a very casual, chatty way. the characters are fairly shallow and have a lot of drama. at times, they treat one another terribly. for some reason, they continue to spend time together. many of the characters have very badly behaved children, but they all go through their own redemption arcs by the end. I wanted Theresa to be happy. it was satisfying every time that things worked out just so. this was perfect light reading to keep my mood up and distract me (briefly) from everything that's going on in the world these days.