Although the divorce rate is skyrocketing, with one out of every two marriages ending in divorce and remarriages abounding, no one has explored the dynamics that take place between mothers, daughters and stepmothers. They must navigate these uncharted waters as they strive to forge new, meaningful relationships. In the past, the stepmother was considered "wicked" or "intrusive" -- a threat to both the mother and daughter, whose former lives have been displaced by divorce. Today, however, more and more stepmothers, daughters and mothers seek answers to their unresolved issues and expectations so that the daughter will reap the benefit of having two mother figures.Barash's extensive, breakthrough research, with hundreds of interviews of mothers, step-mothers and daughters, combined with expert insights from psychologists, sociologists and divorce attorneys, explores the feelings and behaviors of all these women. This book examines how they can end the dark myths that surround their relationshipsand recognize and break free of unrewarding patterns. With these guidelines, the past can be left behind and healthy rules can be defined for new family structures.Women of Divorce is a frank, supportive and valuable resource on female teamwork to resolve and prevent discord. It clearly shows mothers, daughters and stepmothers how to work together to obtain a new lease on family life.