Toni Halleen Books

This probing novel explores the complexities of a newly married couple, their surrogate, and the unforeseen consequences of their choices. Ruth, a determined fortysomething journalist from the Midwest, longs for a child with her husband, Hal, a divorced attorney eager to support her dreams of motherhood. Their hopes hinge on Cally, a financially struggling nineteen-year-old who sees surrogacy as a way to fund her college education. As the pregnancy progresses, Ruth and Hal eagerly anticipate the arrival of their baby, believing the arrangement benefits everyone involved. However, just after the baby’s birth, Cally has a sudden change of heart and orchestrates a dramatic escape from the hospital with the newborn. This shocking turn of events forces Ruth and Hal to confront a cascade of doubts and secrets, blurring the lines between right and wrong. Set against the stark, wintry backdrop of northern Minnesota, the narrative follows the characters as they navigate their intertwined fates through icy landscapes. The story raises profound questions about family, love, and the essence of motherhood, challenging readers to consider the sacrifices made for love and the true value of a pregnancy.

The story follows sociology professor Matthew Larkin, who grapples with profound loss after the death of his son, leading to a fractured family and career. While seeking shelter from a storm, he discovers a distressed boy hiding under a tarp. Faced with a moral dilemma, Matthew must choose between helping the boy and adhering to societal rules, as the child pleads to avoid the authorities. This encounter forces Matthew to confront his grief and seek redemption, exploring themes of loss, forgiveness, and the complexities of human connection.

The story centers on Matthew Larkin, a sociology professor grappling with profound loss after the death of his son and subsequent family breakdown. Struggling to rebuild his life, he encounters a child in distress during a storm and faces a moral dilemma when the boy pleads against seeking help. Driven by grief and a desire for redemption, Matthew's impulsive decision leads him into a dangerous situation that challenges his understanding of right and wrong, ultimately forcing him to confront his past and seek forgiveness.