A well crafted story of friendship, secrets, and finding yourself. A self- exiled writer and a young, people-pleasing woman form bonds of unity that both, at first, don’t seek or think they need. An underlying mystery leads to the writing of the author’s first novel in many, many years. It steers both characters on a path to redemption, discovery, and a unique friendship.

A feel good book about female relationships and love. Highly recommended!

Translated from Swedish, this relationship focused book is set on the Swedish coast giving the book a great sense of place for those who enjoy reading books from around the world. Seventy-year old author Inez is at a retrospective point in her life and decides it’s about time to go through the piles she’s accumulated over the years in her cluttered house. She also wants to write her last book about her friend, the oyster diver, who mysteriously disappeared years ago and which continues to haunt her years later. But she needs help with decluttering as she recently hurt her hip attempting to reach shelves beyond her reach. Enter 37-year old Meja, who is sent by the company Inez reaches out to for a cleaner. Meja is rudderless, going through life blandly, not quite sure who she is or what she wants. This is a lovely and quiet moving book about relationships - between Inez and Meja, Inez and her daughter Amelia, Meja and her boyfriend Johan, Meja and her mother Susanne. It’s about introspection and choices, it’s about taking that tiny step despite trepidation that can make a world of difference, and it’s about how sometimes accepting a kind gesture can bring so much pleasure to the person extending the gesture and the reluctant recipient. Be warned that this is not a fast-paced book, and I’m glad it wasn’t. The story unfolds gently through Inez and Meja’s perspectives, which provides the opportunity for the reader to be in their shoes and be privy to their thoughts and struggles that drive their actions. I enjoyed this book for its storyline, character development, and evolving relationships and definitely recommend it. Many thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.