Whether it is the dish on a hot celebrity couple or the latest scandal in our home town, it seems that society is obsessed with gossip. Secrets, Lies, and Pies is a cautionary tale of how a rumor can take on a life of its own. The story takes place in the fictional Southwest Virginia town of Coleman, Virginia. Marlene Prescott is the beautiful and successful owner of Coleman's premier pie shop, "Cutie Pies." Unfortunately, Marlene is all too often the subject of gossip. The Coleman Canasta Club, or "The Hens," as Marlene and her two childhood friends refer to them, have made Marlene their latest target. Marlene and Dorothy, who is one of Marlene's best friends from kindergarten, join with their other best friend, Allison, to take on "The Hens." Together, these three girlfriends take the high road and watch "The Hens" trap themselves in their own lies. In the end, Marlene cooks up something really good Sweet victory is realized when she very publicly serves up a little humble pie. This hilarious tale of Southern Appalachian sisterhood, romance, and humorous antics will have readers wanting another slice Secrets, Lies, and Pies is full of Southern wit and charm, yet the themes are universal. The main characters are in their early forties, but are facing issues that affect women of all ages. Marlene manages to find romance while running her business. Allison has given up a career to be a stay-at-home mom. Dorothy deals with the heartbreak of infertility. Other characters weaved into the novel add depth and humor. This novel is the perfect leisure read.