It started a little slow, but there is a story within the story, and soon I was totally engrossed in both stories and sorry when it ended.

and how healing is possible through honesty and owning one’s narrative. I had a hard time getting into this book at first as the 3 characters were all so very unlikeable. I think the author went overboard there. Then through owning her narrative the mother is able to heal and everyone is transformed in a little too tidy a package for realism. I’d actually give it 3.5 stars. I save 5 for truly exceptional reads, and 4 stars for really really good works. Both those ratings are hard earned from me.

This book had me at the first chapter and it was hard to put done.

It starts slow and meandering. But stick with it. One of the most riveting and powerful stories I’ve read. I don’t give many 5 star ratings, but this book deserves it. The backdrop of World War II history told through the eyes of one woman is riveting.

As always, another story hard to put the book down.

Not my favorite.

A poignant story of love, loss, rediscovery and the strength of family.

A little boring at the times, maybe too many words to describe sentiments or to fill up the book.

I’m not going to lie, it was difficult to get through this book before getting to the good part—but the good part is so, so very good. It’s a book of sadness and loss and hard to read as a mother but so well written.

Loved it! So much pain and unfathomable grief that turns into a beautiful story.