I won this book from a Facebook contest on the Willig, White and Williams page. I had not read any books previously by Beatriz Williams and was looking forward to this one.  The story begins in 1964 when Vivian Schuyler receives a mysterious package in the mail which contains a suitcase belonging to Violet Grant, whom we later learn is an aunt to Vivian.  We learn Violet's story through alternating chapters beginning in 1914 when she leaves home to become a physicist.  It is interesting to learn more about both of these ladies and see the parallels in their lives lived over 50 years apart.  I loved the premises of this book and was surprised by the twists and turns.  

Quite simply, I loved this book!  I completely fell in love with all the characters but especially Ove.  He has recently lost his job and his wife, who was the love of his life, and at the start of the book, has decided to commit suicide and join his wife.  All his best laid plans go awry, and his meddlesome neighbors just won't leave him alone.  Parvaneh, who is pregnant with her third child, moves in across the street and doesn't cut Ove any slack.  This is a heartwarming story of life, heroism, grief and the power of the human connection.  I highly recommend this book and look forward to discussing at my next book club meeting.  

This novel was the first I had read by Jojo Moyes.  The book is described as "One single mom.  One chaotic family.  One quirky stranger.  One irresistible love story."  While the book was all those things, it was also much more.  The story is narrated in separate chapters by Jess (the single mom), Tanzie (the daughter and math genius), Nicky (the older somewhat troubled brother) and Ed (the quirky stranger).  The author did an excellent job of making each of the characters genuine and relatable.  You were immersed in each of their plights and were taking the journey with them.  While portions of the story are predictable, there are several plot turns and I don't think I would have wanted it any other way.  Overall, a fun enjoyable read.

This book has been on my to-read list for awhile.  The premise of the book was very intriguing to me:  "A Modern Day Slave, an International Art Dealer and the Unlikely Woman Who Bound Them Together."  It sounded like a very interesting combination of personalities and I was interested to see how their stories would develop.  The first half of the book basically gives you the background on Denver Moore (the modern-day slave) and Ron Hall (the International Art Dealer).  I found the details regarding sharecropping and life in Red River Parish, Louisiana fascinating.  Without giving away too much of the story, this book definitely is an emotional journey and not a light hearted read.   While portions of the story are heart wrenching, it is a touching story of friendship and how one person's life can touch so many others.  I enjoyed visiting the book's website to see photos of Denver, Deborah and Ron, as well as some members of their families.