Cocktails and Books
Written on Mar 15, 2014
Rose is a troubled character and readers will be captured by her & her daughter Maddie from the start. As I was reading, I put myself in her shoes--to leave home with my small child and nothing but the clothes on my back? I am not sure I would have the courage to do what Rose does in this story. For much of the book, Rose also doubts herself and that is mostly due to her years spent with her abusive husband. Her dysfunctional childhood did nothing to boost her confidence either. Rose has pinned all of her hopes on one chance encounter with a stranger that leads her to small village far away from her abusive husband.
I hate to simplify this story, but I also don't want to give too much away. I will say that Rose learns a lot about herself--her self-worth, her strength, her true capabilities on this journey. Just as importantly (or maybe because of her self-discovery?) she improves her relationships with family members, men and new friends. Readers might find themselves examining some relationships in their own lives that require reconciliation or repair--I know I did. This book has a "happy ending", but it's also very realistic. There is a lot of heartache beofre Rose finds happiness and a sense of purpose.
Read it, it's definitely worth it!
Reviewed by Joelle for Cocktails and Books