Contract for Chaos

by Judy Alter

When four young men sign the rental contract on a Fairmount House, realtor Kelly O’Connell has no idea she has just signed a contract for chaos. But the racial tensions sweeping the country erupt in Fort Worth, and her tenants fan the flames. A young black policeman shoots an unarmed white teenage thief who charged him, the chief of police is shot by a sniper, and Kelly’s husband, Mike, is appointed interim chief of police. Life changes dramatically for Kelly and her family. Protests, threats, beatings, and graffiti mark daily life in Kelly’s beloved city. She must protect her infant, reassure her older daughters, and support Mike as he deals with the racism and dissension creeping through the police force and the city. How can she keep her family safe and stop the hate? Will the mayor’s city-wide Celebration of Neighbors calm a city on the edge?

Unknown Binding

About the author

Judy Alter was an American novelist and nonfiction writer whose work explored the history and literature of Texas and the American West, with a particular focus on women’s experiences in the nineteenth century. She authored numerous books for adults and young readers, including over fifty young adult nonfiction titles and a series of cozy mysteries, many set in Texas. Before turning to full-time writing, she worked as editor and later director of TCU Press. Alter earned degrees from the University of Chicago, Truman State University, and Texas Christian University. She received multiple literary honors, including the Owen Wister Award for Lifetime Achievement, and remained an influential voice in Western literature.

Reviews

[Carolyn Powers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyed the entire book series.

[Mary Jo Doig · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked the way these characters' actions work through an ugly situation.