Great book club book.

Was a very life changing book ! Great for book clubs lots to talk about.

This actually ended up being a touching story. However, I've read so many suspense stories lately and, because of that, I just couldn't bring myself to devote the time I should have to read this story in a day or two. Usually every spare minute I have I'm grabbing the book I'm engrossed in, but I always kept finding something else to do instead.

My first problem with the book was that I detested the main character -- a mom who had neglected her children for many years while she fed her narcotic addiction and allowed herself to continuously be manipulated by self-serving, bullying men at the expense of the needs of her children. As expected, she redeemed herself somewhat in the end, but it was a bit late in the picture for me.

The real story was found in the letters in the prayer box. Iola was a mixed race woman who lived alone and was scorned by most of the occupants of Hatteras Island. Upon her death, it is discovered that within her lonely house lived a woman of extraordinary kindness and compassion for others. The letters to her "father" were heartfelt and moving.

A bit predictable, this book does hold the story of forgiveness and new beginnings and is worthy of reading.

I found the main character ridiculous at the beginning. She made such poor decisions especially about men. But things improved as she got involved with the prayer boxes. Her character became deeper and more believable. Do you agree?

Do you have any more suggestions for discussion?