The thing about Tracie Banister is that she has seasoned to perfection the recipe for writing an enticing book: engaging, informative but not preachy, marvelously well developed and accessible characters, descriptive elegance and humorous dialogue. Mix these ingredients well and the reader is fortunate to experience a memorable and emotionally  satisfying meal!

I first discovered Banister’s writing genius last year with her wonderful book Twin Piques. As a twin, I was eager to devour this book. I had never read Chick Lit before. But I have never been a book reviewer “snob” and as such, was always leery of the charge by some readers that Chick Lit didn’t constitute “intelligent writing.” With Twin Piques, I quickly saw a book that both entertained and challenged the reader. In addition, Banister has a signature writing style where a reader can easily find herself “talking” to the characters. Lest you question your sanity, I would add that the voice you hear is your own becoming fully invested in the story.

Having earned my reader interest, I excitedly moved on to the next book in the Banister repertoire: In Need of Therapy. For the sports minded, Banister hit a home run with this book.

In Need of Therapy is the story of Pilar Alvarez, a Miami based psychologist (building her practice) who must balance a full caseload of patients, a colorful family and potential romance.

Miami is almost like that important supporting character framing this narrative. We see and feel the vibrancy of the Miami. The way Banister describes Miami and weaves it within the story is breathtaking.

I was further impressed with how skilled Banister was in creating client case history and writing these clients so well. While Pilar listened with a compassionate ear throughout the sessions, so does the reader. Of course, compassion doesn’t fall hostage to humor. It is okay to laugh at the scenarios presented and retain your compassion; thankfully, Banister lets us laugh without guilt.

In addition, I enjoyed how Banister wrote Pilar’s family. The peacemaker Pilar was caught between a rock in a hard place, or in this case, her mother Luisa who is prone to histrionics and her irresponsible younger sister Izzy. Izzy is beautifully flawed and beautifully enjoyable as a character. The reader will want to cover her eyes at some of the stunts that Izzy pulls, yet peek through her fingers determined not to miss a moment of the whirlwind that is Izzy Alvarez.

There is so much to love about this book. I won’t spoil it for readers by revealing spoilers. I enthusiastically recommend In Need of Therapy.