<DIV><I>Leaves</I> is the first novel in a series that Michael Baron will write on an annual basis. You can think of it as the Northeastern version of Jan Karon's Mitford novels. Like the Mitford novels, the town itself plays a major role in the story and the cast of characters is large and varied. However, the sensibility here is much more akin to the region in which these novels are set.<BR><BR><I>Leaves</I> is the story of a once close-knit family of siblings losing connection with one another after their parents die. The backdrop of this story is the fictional Connecticut River Valley town of Oldham in the month of October – a time when “leaf-peepers” travel long distances and even cross oceans to witness the spectacular foliage. The ticking clock in this novel is the upcoming Halloween party at the Sugar Maple Inn. It has been a local highlight for decades, but now the Golds have sold the Inn and the party will be the last event they hold there. And, as we come to realize, it is also very possibly the last thing the family will do as a unit. This party – and the sale of the inn – means something a little different to each member of the family, but every one of them knows that it profoundly signifies the end of an era.<BR><BR>With <I>Leaves</I> Baron takes another step toward breaking to a wide audience. The range of the cast and the unique qualities of the town will make readers want to come back for every installment.</DIV>