Autumn 1918. Rumors of peace are spreading across America, but spreading even faster are the first cases of Spanish influenza, whispering of the epidemic to come. Maureen Ross, well past a safe childbearing age, is experiencing a difficult pregnancy. Her husband, Troop -- cold and careless of her condition -- has battered her spirit throughout their marriage. Into this loveless m nage arrives Troop's niece, Mary Oliver, who has come to help Maureen in the last weeks of her confinement. Horrified by Troop's bullying, she realizes that her true duty is to protect her aunt.
As the influenza spreads and the death toll grows, Troop's spiteful behavior worsens. He terrorizes the household, but when Mary fights back he begins to go over the edge. Maureen rallies, releasing a stunning thunderstorm of confrontation and, ultimately, finding spiritual renewal.
This P.S. edition features an extra 16 pages of insights into the book, including author interviews, recommended reading, and more.
Binding Type: Paperback
Publisher: Harper Perennial
Published: 07/05/2005
ISBN: 9780060760281
Pages: 240
Weight: 0.40lbs
Size: 8.10h x 5.34w x 0.59d
Review Citations: Ingram Advance 08/01/2005 pg. 39