“The Hopefuls” A novel by Jennifer Close

Jeff has a girlfriend and her name is Rachel Maddow. I’m not insane with jealousy yet because she only lives inside the television but still she is in our living room all the time. A devotion to watching political commentary is one thing that my first and second husbands share. Bill was obsessed with politics when we were first married and watched the Chicago City Council on television late until the night. Jeff stares as Rachel Maddow like she is a goddess giving the hands-down best sermon that was ever delivered. He smiles like a Cheshire cat when he is listening to her. I could be doing a poll dance and he would not notice. I have always felt like a fan on the outskirts of politics. I have always voted and hold strong opinions on the important issues, but I have never wanted to be a political insider or live in Washington D.C. “The Hopefuls” by Jennifer Close is a novel about just that: The people who run for public office and rule Washington D.C. This novel is smart, funny, insightful and real. It is the story of a young wife named Beth who follows her politically ambitious husband, Matt, to live in the capitol. While her intention is to sit on the sidelines as an observer, she gets drawn into the sexy political vortex when her husband befriends a rising star named Jimmy and his wife Ashleigh. When Matt decides to run Jimmy’s campaign, the four become inseparable, and even move in together. I have read far too many novels about Hollywood and New York, so a glimpse inside Washington D.C. felt refreshing. “The Hopefuls” offers a look inside another town with bells and whistles all its own. I found this book especially gratifying to read during an election year when the shenanigans of politics are ruling the airways.  To purchase this book on Amazon click here.