In a quest for reinvention, attorney Rachel Kahn adopts her middle name, Noa, and leaves her high-powered New York private practice. Now in her mid-thirties, she joins the Department of Justice in Washington, D.C., where she is determined to combat the illegal opioid trade. This transition not only marks a significant career shift but also reflects her desire for a more meaningful life dedicated to social justice.
The protagonist confronts a long-buried trauma when she unexpectedly encounters a man she believes is connected to the death of her first love, two decades earlier. Set in a retirement community, the narrative explores her journey of healing and justice as she navigates the challenges posed by his criminal history of money-laundering and murder. With the support of a new partner and loyal friends, she embarks on a quest for closure, showcasing themes of pain, resilience, and clever problem-solving.
Exploring the complexities of modern relationships, the novel follows Jennifer Jacobs as she navigates her connections with two men, Mark Anderson and Nathan Perlstein. Each relationship provides unique excitement and personal growth, prompting Jennifer to discover her own needs both independently and within a partnership. Her journey reveals the nuances of love and friendship, ultimately leading her to determine which partner best complements her life.
Miri Katz, a political newcomer, is driven by a personal mission to advocate for the homeless. Her campaign focuses on securing shelters and affordable housing, particularly for women and their families. As she navigates the challenges of entering politics, her commitment to social justice and community support becomes the cornerstone of her fight for office.
Set against the backdrop of the University of Hawaii, Hilo, the story follows Andy Perry, a dedicated female foreign student advisor. While she is passionate about supporting her students, she grapples with the challenges posed by the university's bureaucracy, highlighting the tension between her commitment to education and the institutional obstacles she faces.
Set against the backdrop of the refugee crisis on Lesbos, the narrative follows American journalist Sophie and local artist Nikos as they assist Farid, a young Syrian man fleeing Turkey. Their journey exposes them to the harsh realities of human trafficking and the struggles faced by refugees seeking safety in Europe. As they navigate this perilous landscape, the trio confronts both the physical dangers and the emotional toll of their involvement in the crisis.
The narrative follows Riana Pappas-Jones, who leads a nonprofit organization called Positive Women in Washington, D.C. Her mission is to support women affected by HIV/AIDS in Africa and other developing regions. The book highlights her dedication to empowering these women and addressing the challenges they face, showcasing the impact of her work on their lives and communities.
A female university professor finds herself drawn into people-smuggling, while a recent widow navigates an unexpected friendship with her late husband's mistress. Set against the backdrop of the Balkans, the narrative explores themes of resilience and the complexities of human relationships, featuring harrowing rescues of refugees in Istanbul and unconventional motherhood experiences. The intertwining lives reveal the strange and often unpredictable nature of personal connections in a turbulent region.
A car accident transforms Andrea Hirsch's vibrant life as a successful Silicon Valley lawyer and her relationship with fellow lawyer Christopher. Faced with new challenges and a reevaluation of her desires, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, questioning her priorities and the true meaning of happiness.