Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

I had read nothing by this author before, but the prologue pulled me right in as it offered more questions than answers. I love a prologue that teases and tantalizes, and this one did! The novel takes place in dual timelines, during World War II and in the present day. There are surprising connections between the past story and the present one. The author paints a verbal picture so well, particularly of the setting and struggles in the Blue Ridge Mountains in the past story. We can't help but feel for Sadie when we first meet her even though we don't know her full story. Libby in the present is sympathetic as well, having recently lost her father and still grappling with emotions caused by multiple miscarriages and a divorce. This is a cross-generational family saga with a lovely contemporary romance to lighten things up, which is needed as there are a few darker themes at play here as well. Secrets abound in this book and take a while to tease out. The author has an immersive writing style and has created nuanced, believable characters whom you can't help but root for as they work through setbacks and other difficult circumstances. I really enjoyed watching this story unfold, and the author did certainly hold back some surprises before ultimately revealing them. I can only say that I wish it were a bit longer because I wasn't quite ready for the story to end. Highly recommended. I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.