Caroline Leavitt Book order

Set against the backdrop of 1956 Boston, the story follows Ava Lark, a divorced Jewish mother navigating the challenges of single parenthood while facing hostility from her neighbors. Her son, Lewis, struggles with the absence of his father and forms a bond with other fatherless children, Jimmy and Rose. When Jimmy mysteriously disappears, the community's Cold War fears intensify, leading to increased isolation for Ava and Lewis, highlighting themes of prejudice, belonging, and the impact of societal tensions on family dynamics.

A woman flees her past while another seeks to evade her future. A young boy harbors a dark secret, and a father strives to keep him safe.

The story explores the deep connection between Gary and Molly, who quickly become soulmates after overcoming their pasts. As they look forward to starting a family together, their joy is palpable when Molly discovers she's pregnant. However, the narrative hints at the fragility of their happiness, suggesting that while building a life takes time, it can be shattered in an instant. The themes of love, hope, and the challenges of family life are central to their journey.

The narrative explores the complexities of maternal love and the impact of open adoption through the experiences of sixteen-year-old Sara, who faces an unplanned pregnancy and chooses to place her child with George and Eva, a couple yearning for a family. As Sara grapples with her feelings post-birth, the emotional ties she forms with her baby clash with Eva's intentions, leading to a drastic decision that alters their lives forever. This poignant tale examines the profound connections of family and the heartache that can arise when those bonds are tested.