I thoroughly enjoyed this page-turner of a novel that combines literary fiction deftly with women's fiction and magical realism that feels quite believable. There is much here about the power of art for healing, as well as relationships, marriage, the grief that attends childlessness, and the excitement of new love and creating new life to bring into the world.

I especially loved the journey of transition that Gemma was on, and how her journey brought her to a new place of self-attunement and new people who lent her their wisdom as she let go of life's restraints and turned toward who she really wanted to be.

The writing is deft and comprehensive, with attention to sensual detail that brings the reader right into the story. I admire how this author wove the stories of these two women together, and also how the power of women (past, present, and future) became not just a sub-theme but contained the meaning of the book itself.

Highly recommend for book clubs and those who enjoy good art, womens' stories, and brilliant writing.

Thanks to Netgalley, the author, and publisher, for an advanced reading copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. - Anne Marie B.

Both characters Gemma and Simona made my heart soar and made me weep.

What an emotional read this and it is such well told tale I was completely lost in my reading. Nothing else mattered.

Motherhood and trying to become a mother will unite most readers but I also think that those who have never thought about it or never wanted it will find this book enjoyable.

I really do think the author has captured every nuance of the subject, and has told her story a the most beautiful and delicate style

fabulous

-Tracy S. librarian