JDCMustReadBooks

By T. Greenwood

ISBN-13: 9780758250933

Publisher: Kensington Publishing Corporation

Publication date: 9/24/2013

Pages: 384

My Rating:  5 Stars  

A complex, compelling, and intense story of two women, living across the street from one another in a small town -- both in an unhealthy marriage relationship with alcoholic, abusive and controlling husbands. Both are wives and mothers who want the best for their families and find comfort and escape in the friendship and love of one another. 

Growing up as a child in the 60’s, can relate to the time-- with no internet, cell phones, third-party land lines, and women who chose to stay home and raise their families were trapped; stuck without a car, and under the thumb of their husbands without a way to escape. No money or job skills to break free and nowhere to turn for help. (Was in the sixth grade when they came into the school classroom to tell the sad news of President Kennedy – seems like yesterday). 

A compassionate, powerful, and heart-breaking novel of true love, friendship, betrayal, and loss. I have recently discovered T. Greenwood and want to devour every novel she has written. (I tend to do this when I discover a new author –reading their new releases-get hooked and work my way back to the oldest). 

This is only my second book, and the others are making their way to the top of my reading list quickly. If you are a lover of Jodi Picoult, Diane Chamberlain, and Charles Martin, you will love T. Greenwood! She has a way of taking raw, heart-wrenching painful stories of the past and so eloquently combining with sensitivity, and delicate emotions of love and bonding from the heart.

I found myself staying up late in the night turning the pages to find what comes next for Billie and Eva as your heart beats faster, waiting on the next chapter in their lives to unfold – making you feel connected to these beautiful women and unforgettable characters. (will not give away any details, as you will not want to miss a word of this page-turner). A complicated story of love and abuse and realistic complex family dynamics. The suspense is maintained throughout the book from the present day story while the past unfolds with perfect timing. 

As always, the author pulls from inspiration of a real story and takes off on a remarkable and beautiful journey, you will long remember. She is highly creative, and not afraid to tackle taboo and highly charged subjects – highly recommend! (a movie based on this book would be outstanding with an exceptional lineup of stars). 

Love the quote: “The secret to happiness is counting your blessings while others are adding up their troubles.” ― T. Greenwood, Bodies of Water