This story unfolds in a unique fashion with many surprises along the way. There are two parallel stories, one set in 1983 and the other set in 1916.
In 1983, Joe meets Pearl when she rescues him from an in-patient treatment facility. While working for Pearl, Joe meets Kathleen a local shop owner. From the start the two have an instant, yet unexplainable sense of knowing the other. In 1916 we meet Alice, who as the oldest of seven girls, gracefully manages all the responsibilities of maintaining her household after her mother passes. When John comes to stay with her family one summer everything changes.
I recommend this wonderful novel. I enjoyed how Karen McQuestion carefully weaves these two stories together. The past and present are both filled with complex family dynamics and small town scrutiny. This story explores a variety of themes from jealousy to regret and, of course, love. Highly recommended!