Ernt, a former POW, returns from the Vietnam War a changed man. He struggles to fit back into his old life with his wife Cora and teenage daughter Leni, and also his previous employment. Ernt is quick to lash out, and hurts the family and friends he is close to. He is given a lifeline when his late POW friend bequests him land and a house in Alaska. The family move to this formidable place with great hope of mending their broken husband and father, and reconnecting back to the relationships they once had.
Ernt and his family now face new challenges as a result of living off the grid in a small shack in the middle of nowhere, with little in the way of resources. The need to prepare for the coming winter is an important reality of living in Alaska. As winter descends, the family fight to survive the harsh darkness, and Ernt’s mental health declines as his temper and violence escalate. The community rallies around to help the family. Ernt rejects all offers of help and isolates his family from the community. When the most brutal violent attack occurs Cora and Leni reach out to friends as they flee Alaska.
As mother and daughter rebuild their broken lives, they realize if they are to have any hope of regaining happiness they must finally face the past. With love, strength and forgiveness they return to the realities of their past and make amends in order to face a brighter future.
Kristen Hannah’s writing is gritty and honest with strong characterisation. The realities of living in the wilderness of Alaska makes for an interesting setting. Her next novel will be highly anticipated.
Posted by Lynette
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