Scarlet Gardenias - Paperback

Scarlet Gardenias is an inspirational family narrative featuring sisters who journey from pain and suffering to faith, fortitude and forgiveness. Samantha, known as Sonny, strives to fulfill her dying mother's wish to "watch over, protect and advise" her younger sister, Jackie. Feuding between the young Martinnis escalates in earnest with a raucous battle about the color red, intensifies into bitter battles about education and ultimately leads to estrangement. Sonny, a well-liked teacher together with her husband and adopted daughter do all they can to inspire others while Jackie, a defiant and self-absorbed opportunist does as much as she can to con others. Tragedy strikes both sisters. While Sonny is aided by friends including Virginia Vincenza, an Italian restaurateur who tells everyone she meets, "You looka kinda skinny;" Jackie, an unwed mother, has only her ailing son for support. At different times and in different places, the sisters' spirits are awakened by the scent of gardenias. Each sister gets what she craves but not what is expected.