As in other books by Jodi Picoult, there is a central theme involving human emotions of both hope and despair. In this case postnatal depression and the loneliness and anguish that result, drive Paige, a young mother, to leave her 3 month old baby and run.
This is wonderfully woven into the story of how she met her husband on the rebound from an intense childhood romance and the need to track down her mother who abandoned her at the age of 5.
Nicholas is training to be a surgeon, eventually reaching the pinnacle in his field, and is totally thrown by suddenly having to care for his young son alone.
The relationship struggle between himself and Paige is beautifully drawn, a heart-wrenching tale of misunderstandings. Nicholas used to total respect and awe from his colleagues, Paige somewhat childish but fresh and vibrant in her behaviour, with mesmerising artistic talent.
Excellently drawn, I really enjoyed this book. 9 out of 10 because the ending was a touch contrived, I'd have preferred it to finish on page 388 before she revealed her secret. Enough said.
Highly recommended.