Helen of Pasadena

The Los Angeles Times–bestselling “deliciously witty romp” about a wife and mother who loses it all only to find herself—and a whole lot more (Caroline Leavitt).

Helen Fairchild is living a privileged life in a Pasadena paradise. She’s married to a supposed pillar of the community. Her son is destined for the most prestigious high school. She volunteers on the most fashionable committees. She’s the good mom, the good volunteer, the good daughter-in-law, the good friend and, she’s pretty sure, the good wife. Helen doesn’t miss her old self that much—the PhD student in Ancient History with Oregon roots. Then along comes a Rose Parade float that kills her two-timing husband. In a flash, Helen is broke, booted out of her perfect home, and scrambling to salvage her enviable existence.

Enter Dr. Patrick O’Neill, noted archaeologist, excavator of Troy, and wearer of adorable nubby sweaters. A job as Dr. O’Neill’s research assistant is the lifeline Helen needs to re-invent herself professionally, personally, and romantically. Helen’s world widens to include a Hollywood star, a local gossip columnist, an old college nemesis, a high-powered Benefit Chair, an unforgiving admissions director, the best real estate agent in the biz, and, of course, the intriguing Patrick O’Neill. While uncovering secrets about Ancient Troy alongside her archaeologist, Helen discovers something much more: a new sense of self and a new love.

With its keen social observations, laugh-out-loud scenes and whip-smart dialogue, Helen of Pasadena spent more than a year on the Los Angeles Times bestseller list. It is a wise story from an author “known for her humorous take on day-to-day issues facing women everywhere” (Oprah.com).