May the Best Man Win

Lori McLeod is a librarian with the Toronto Public Library.

In Family Rivalry, Roger King returns to Avonlea after a year-long
absence. While working as a mining consultant in Brazil, Roger had left
the care of his son, Andrew, to his brother, Alec, and sister-in-law,
Janet. The relationship between Alec and Roger has long been marked by
friction and competitiveness, and their rivalry resumes upon Roger’s
return. Andrew, who has eagerly anticipated the reunion, is bitterly
disappointed because his father is so preoccupied with his work. Roger
announces that he plans to return to Brazil for yet another year,
leaving Andrew behind in Avonlea. The hope of a joyful family reunion is
marred by tensions between members of the King clan. Family love and
loyalty prevail, however, when an accident threatens the family.

May the Best Man Win finds Edwin Clark, a former suitor of Olivia King,
returning to Avonlea. Ten years earlier, Hetty King had put a stop to
the relationship between her younger sister and Edwin. But Edwin’s
newly acquired wealth prompts the social-climbing Hetty to change her
tune, and even to encourage the match. Olivia, however, has grown
increasingly fond of the shy, gentle, awkward photographer Jasper Dale.
Who will win the affections of Olivia? is the central question in this
charming old-fashioned romance.

Both titles (adapted from episodes of the CBC TV series “Road to
Avonlea”) are well written and provide solid entertainment for readers
8 to 12.