My collection of Catherine Ritch Guess books began when my husband met the author and brought home a signed copy to me. One book led to another, and before long, I had a small collection of her stories featuring Miz Eudora Rumph and her adventures in the mountains of North Carolina.
Miz Eudora is a widow from Smackass Gap, North Carolina, who has a mind of her own and a way of looking at life that makes for some entertaining reading. Her highfalutin' sister-in-law, Mabel Toast Jarvis, is often at the center of her troubles, and the two women have a knack for turning ordinary situations into extraordinary adventures.
In the Sweet By and By
Miz Eudora's adventures begin after her husband, Horace, dies. When a mix-up involving a busload of Red Hatters sends her life in an unexpected direction. Dressed in her purple “fopher” coat, red hat, and red orthopedic shoes, she certainly doesn't blend into the crowd. What follows is a humorous journey filled with unexpected encounters, family complications, and Miz Eudora's plainspoken take on life. It's an entertaining introduction to a character who doesn't need anyone's permission to do things her way.
Precious Memories
Miz Eudora takes her first official road trip after winning an international quilt contest in Paducah, Kentucky. Her quilt inspires a fashion venture called “Smack from the Gap.” With Mabel along to add her own brand of mischief, the journey becomes much more than a trip to collect a prize. Miz Eudora proves where a little talent and a lot of determination might lead.
Beautiful Star of Bethlehem
Christmas brings another opportunity for Miz Eudora to put her ideas into practice. When she decides to do something nice for Mabel, the gift doesn't quite have the effect she intended. Yet what seems like a terrible present to Mabel is a blessing for the people of Smackass Gap. Beneath the humor is a gentle reminder of the true meaning of Christmas. Miz Eudora has her own way of helping people see what matters most.
When the Saints Go Marching In
Mabel announces that she intends to take over as music director at First Church in Smackass, and Miz Eudora is determined to put a stop to it. Her efforts lead to a series of adventures that take the women from Savannah, Georgia, to Minnesota, with plenty of mischief along the way. Whether she's trying to outmaneuver Mabel or offering one of her unmistakable opinions, Miz Eudora keeps things lively.
I'm glad my husband brought home that first signed book. It introduced me to Miz Eudora Rumph. These books remind us that reading doesn't always have to be serious to be worthwhile. Sometimes a memorable character, a dose of humor, and a few unexpected adventures are just what a reader needs.
