Novel Set in Charlotte is PW's Pick of the Week

I'm not the least bit surprised that the latest novel by Charlotte's Kim Wright (aka Kim Wiley), "The Unexpected Waltz" (Gallery Books, $24), got a starred review in the most recent issue of Publisher's Weekly. Not only that. The magazine selected "Waltz" as its Pick of the Week.

Kim Wright

The book's not out until early June, but I plunged into the advance review copy while my 5-year-old grandson was at choir practice. Now I'm thoroughly engrossed. The novel has everything I look for in a good read: intrigue, interesting characters at a crossroads and a comfortable authority that allows me to surrender to whatever happens next. What's more, the novel is set in Charlotte.

Wright, who grew up in Indian Trail, is also the author of a 2010 novel, "Love in Mid Air," which People magazine called an "astute and engrossing" debut.

PW describes this latest a "dance drama," starring the new widow Kelly, with more money and time on her hands than she knows what to do with. And, the magazine continues, Wright "guides us expertly through a moving, layered, and lyrical exploration of transformation."  

Head's up: Her book launch on June 8, 2-4 p.m., will be at the Piper Glen Ballroom, 6420 Rea Rd, beside Trader Joe's. You're invited for "signature drinks, readings, a free waltz lesson, and a few surprises."