AFTER HELEN

Irving is an unassuming history teacher grieving the recent death of his larger-than-life wife, Helen, whom he first met during a chance encounter at her father's bookstore. Their teenage daughter, Severn - angry at Irving, angry at Helen - has disappeared after stealing a book that may reveal more about her mother than she ever wanted to know. On the road in search of Severn, Irving revisits his past with Helen as he follows a trail of clues that reveal why Severn has disappeared. Along the way, he comes face-to-face with some long-buried family secrets - secrets that he'll have to confront if he wants to save his relationship with his daughter.

Paul Cavanagh burst on to the international literary scene when he was crowned the world's first Lit Idol at the London International Book Fair in the UK. This novel, which won him the title, was published in Canada to glowing reviews. At long last, it is now available to readers across the world. His deft touch for creating engaging characters comes in no small part from working for some 30 years in health care as a clinician, educator, and independent consultant. He developed his literary talents at the Humber School for Writers and Western University. He currently lives in London, Ontario, Canada.