A story of family love and honesty. A story of the town's men standing around a potbelly wood heater at the general store. A story of friends made and friends kept. A story of town gossip. A story of a self-centered prankster and things going to far. A story of "you get what you deserve in the end". There is a lot of love between Worthy and his wife, Willa, in a chauvenistic kind of way....And I mean that in a sweet way. They raise their grandson, Cappy, not really knowing who Cappy's father is because W & W's unmarried, 14 year old daughter died shortly after childbirth from complications. Cappy grows up to be quite a fellow. He's ambitious, likeable, confident, and has tenacity. I strongly suggest reading this novel, it's one of the best I've read this year.
The writing in this book is easy to follow and quick to read but real hard to put down. I am going to look up other books by this author and pray that she writes again real soon. She's done a greaT Job!
I'm not sure why there are some reviewers who feel ashamed or offended, but this is a terrific book. This is not non-fiction and I've never been to Illinios, but I liked this little town very much and the characters in the story seem so real. I'm glad I read this book eventhough I almost didn't. I'm so sure that almost anyone would enjoy this novel.

This book is a wonderful account of days gone by in central Illinois. Life as depicted in this novel seems to be a "simpler" life; as so much of what we hear on the news or read in the papers today, would have been taboo in Cappy's time. I loved the authentic dialogue and all the characters portrayed in the book. This would make a great movie! I hope Ms. Rolens is planning a second book in the near future! Thank you for a thoroughly enjoyable novel.

This is definitrly one of my new favorite novels. I bought this ... months ago. When I got home, looked up the title and read the reviews, I put off reading this book but I sure wish I didn't now that I read it. This story is excellent. Please Ms. Rolens, write some more. You're a terrific author!!
The story is about family love.....unconditional love. The earl and mid 20th century is rich with history and this author ties history into this novel with expertise rolled up with suspense.
There's the primitive childbirth practices which caused the death of 14 year old Chastity. Her baby boy, Cappy, being raised by his grandparents and the loved shared between them is heartwarming. And Worthy's love for Willa is so very obvious as well as Willa's love for him in return.
There is everything in this book that is in real life. Some hate, some love, some patriotism, some strange personal endeavors, bullies and meaness.
I belive almost anyone would like this book, I don't understand why anyone would be embarassed about a book of fiction. THIS IS A GREAT BOOK. Pick it up, read it, enjoy it, life isn't always picture perfect.
This story was easy to follow and easy to get to know the characters. I highly recommend this one.