Author Susan Meissner does an amazing job of building her fictional characters in this book. If I did not know this was fiction, I would of thought that these characters were real.

The intersection of their lives seemed possible/plausible.

I appreciated Ms.Meissner's historical research (which was used) to define each character from their time era. Actual historical events were woven in.

The two main characters are from different generations. Past and present. There is a common thread of love, hope and healing. I found myself turning the pages to see where each story was going next.

I became invested in both Clara and
Taryn from the start. I wanted to know their story.
I haven't been "pulled in" to a book in this way for a very long time.

Of special relevance is the connection to Ellis Island. Specifically, the dreams and hopes of all of the immigrants that have come to our great country in hopes of a better life.

We all came from "somewhere".

This book served as a wonderful reminder of the amazing journey of life.

We can be challenged in ways we think we can not rebound from. We find strength. We surprise ourselves.