I was excited to receive this book in the mail. The subject matter held infinite possibilities and I love when a real-life event sparks an author's imagination. However, after reading 100 pages, I finally gave it up. The characters held no excitement for me and I felt the prose was over-explanatory in the way it made connections between the novel, the historical character, and the present day character. I found the back and forth between the book, the present day character's interpretation of the book, and the historical figure messy and difficult to follow. I just couldn't make it to the end. My apologies... I'm sure another reader will love it.

I was thrown off initially by the alternating point-of-view of the two main characters but, once in the swing of the narrative, I found myself hooked on this charming romantic tale of three women courageously forging a new life for themselves despite the odds against them. Ms. Harms' narrative is inventive and witty and the women characters come to life on the page. The male characters remain flat throughout and sometimes the story is unsurprising in its plot twists but overall this novel makes a perfect "Beach Read". The food references throughout the book made my mouth water and I found myself reaching for my Joy of Cooking to complete the experience.

Jael McHenry creates an unlikely heroine in a socially awkward younger sister who, after the death of her parents, needs to adapt to the new terms of life laid before her. As she and her sister sift through their parents possessions, she comes to understand them and herself in new ways. The conflicts that emerge forge new relationships with her sister and those around her. This is a magical and heartwarming coming-of-age story not without its sad moments. You will want to have a full pantry when you read this. McHenry's descriptions of cooking, the recipes, the scents, and preparation will lead you straight to your own kitchen.