I like a book to take me where I have never been, and paint a picture so vivid that I can see it. I was completely satisfied by this story.
The first third of the book slides back and forth between time, place and character. It is a bit difficult to follow at first, but I found sticking with it to be worth it. The disparate characters' stories and the books themes intertwine in an absorbing and intricate way. Some question are left unanswered, but I did not feel this detracted from my enjoyment in reading this book.

A different approach to dealing with grief, and a slow evolving romance, I found the book entertaining and imaginative.

The challenges in Martha Jefferson's life are extremely difficult, from her first love being denied due to loyalty to her father, to women having few rights in ownership, finance, or in defense of domestic violence. She was incredibly smart and politically adept,
and became the matriarch of a large and challenging family. She is a heroine, and patriot for our modern world.

I felt like I knew Kate and Tully, their ambitions and goals, and I enjoyed the contrasts in their choices. It is a rare friendship that can ebb and flow as long time friends choose divergent paths into adulthood.