Can a woman ever really know herself if she doesn’t know her mother? From the author of the smash-hit bestseller Firefly Lane and True Colors comes a powerful, heartbreaking novel that illuminates the intricate mother-daughter bond and explores the enduring links between the present and the past Meredith and Nina Whitson are as different as sisters can be. One stayed at home to raise her children …
Meredith and Nina Whitson are as different as sisters can be. One stayed at home to raise her children and manage the family apple orchard; the other followed a dream and traveled the world to become a famous photojournalist. But when their beloved father falls ill, Meredith and Nina find themselves together again, standing alongside their cold, disapproving mother, Anya, who even now, offers no comfort to her daughters. As children, the only connection between them was the Russian fairy tale Anya sometimes told the girls at night. On his deathbed, their father extracts a promise from the women in his life: the fairy tale will be told one last time and all the way to the end. Thus begins an unexpected journey into the truth of Anya’s life in war-torn Leningrad, more than five decades ago. Alternating between the past and present, Meredith and Nina will finally hear the singular, harrowing story of their mother’s life, and what they learn is a secret so terrible and terrifying that it will shake the very foundation of their family and change who they believe they are.
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This is a wonderful book that teaches not only history of that time period, however, teaches about the spirit of mankind in times of extreme duress. The stories of these people, and what they endured, needs to be told and understood so it never happens again.
A beautifully written and captivating story within a story. I couldn’t put it down. Intriguing characters and storyline. Highly recommended.
Loved this book! Beautifully written and very inspirational
Love this author! Very realistic storylines and descriptive characters!
I’ve read several Kristin Hannah books and they are all different but have as a central tenet the complexities of family relationships. Winter Garden is that on multiple levels with a mystery to be solved. Great as historical fiction as well. I learned a lot about the siege of Leningrad.
Somewhat deep, but satisfying look at family.
I love this author’s works. So real and the historical truths add to the story. I feel I have gained knowledge as well as enjoying a good read. This book will not disappoint. I can’t get it out of my mind…..so much to think on.
One never knows a person or can judge how they treat you until you know their story.
Excellent book!!
A sad but interesting depiction of life in Russia during the battle of Leningrad and how living through those experiences can haunt a person the rest of their lives. Another wonderful book by Kristen Hannah!
Although this book had some interesting historical facts on the Siege of Leningrad, I found the characters not particularly likable and the present-day plot highly unlikable. The book dragged on through the first half. However, I read it in its entirety. Kristin Hannah’s “The Nightingale” was a much better book.
One of my favorites by Kristin Hannah!
love this book. I have extra copies to give away to some of my friends who are readers. Couldn’t put this book down, was hooked in the first few sentences. Written so well I felt like I was part of the book.
Simply put one of the best books I have read in many years. It captured my interest, tore at my heart and inspired me to examine relationships. First time I ever attempted to write a review
Wonderful tragic story that ends happily. Amazing!
The first part of this book is way, way too long. There are basically two parts of this novel: the part where tension is building in the family, and the part where the tension starts to unravel. The first half is tension filled, without resolve, and without much action. The story that finally unravels at the end is really interesting, but it takes …
Loved the book!
As is typical of this author, it’s an I can’t put this book down book.
A subject I didn’t know anything about–good story
It took me some time to get into the book, but I’m glad I stuck with it. Completely shocked at the very unexpected ending!