The Prodigal Daughter : A Novel

Alma Leary is a young Irish girl who grows-up in a dysfunctional family near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in the 1950's. Alma's father is not only a devout racist, he engages in domestic violence and sexual deviance. One such domestic assault concludes in horrific fashion ending years of physical abuse. Following college, Alma moves to Philadelphia to become a police officer. Through her affairs with several men, Alma experiences life's harsh lessons which ultimately leave her a single mother. She is utilized by her boss to cajole subordinates, leading to their demise. After landing on the sofa of a psychiatrist, Alma returns home only to discover that she must play the cards which life has dealt.