The AJS 7R

Twelve steps to freedom: a break-out debut novel of biker and other chicks, medicine wheels and a roundabout journey of the self. Maggie Hoffer has just been picked up for murder one in the shooting death of Mongrel, her drug-dealing, biker husband. Only Maggie says Mongrel actually shot himself, despondent over the fact that he could no longer ride his Harley. Now Maggie's in prison, awaiting trial, and the verdict that will likely keep her behind bars for a very long time. Desperate for her freedom and still on the run from the truth and the hurts that have driven her life, Maggie hooks up with Big Dee, a black woman as big as a stand-up freezer and Maggie's cell – and soon to be – soul-mate. Joined by Sam and Darlene, the lesbians next door, Stella, an Indian woman whose tough exterior belies her own mystical wisdom, and Chan, a young Chinese girl whose English skills aren't nearly as good as her talent for manufacturing fake i.d., the women form “Freedom Anonymous,” a hilarious twist on a twelve-step recovery program. “F.A.” is just a cover so they can plan their escape, but the program becomes a break-out to an important journey of self-discovery as the convicts make their escape and head out across the country. A strikingly original first novel that is entertaining, funny and poignant, resonant with difficult truths that we all must confront, Freedom's Just Another Word possesses a terrific blend of commercial and literary appeal. Complete with unique recipes – “Lou's Fire Eater Funeral Chili Pot” – the prophecies of the Tarot cards and the teachings of ancient native wisdom, this is a wonderfully rich reading