That kind of childhood makes Alma protectively closed off and wary of relationships. Yet, it is precisely relationships that she will need to begin to heal from that childhood. She doesn’t get off to a good start on that.But Alma’s intelligence helps her she achieve her goal of becoming financially independent. In fact, a wealthy business woman. That’s nice, but Alma is dimly aware that something is missing.Can she overcome her fears and develop into a whole person? She must proceed very very carefully, and it is not a smooth path.A psychological drama written in an unusual style.•Literary•Domestic violence•Childhood neglect•Romance•History•Surprise endingA Review:I loved the story. It truly captured Alma, her so revealing interactions and thoughts, and all the while with sly humor. I enjoy reading complex characters, and this story builds to an inspired ending.I got hooked on this character, empathized with her and even got mad at her. Her evolving spirit and the twists and turn of her unusual life were a delight to read.The dialogue is so good, many times I heard the conversations in my head.Glad I could read this.Denise Dion PhD, Psychologist