"With deft fingers she threaded the needle and quickly sewed her jewellery into the hem of her skirt. Insignificant as it was, it reminded her of the way she once lived, her old life, now hidden in the helm of a plain dress. It was her insurance, her little baubles, her ticket out of darkness, if darkness fell. It was her independence. It was her past."
Catherine Land was a woman of the world so when lonely and wealthy Ralph Truitt in Wisconsin advertises for a reliable wife, she goes after it lock stock and barrel.
Catherine knows what she wants out of life and this will be an ideal opportunity to become wealthy if her plans are fulfilled.
She travels to Wisconsin by train on a wintry day disappointing Mr. Truitt who expected a different looking woman, and is not at all pleased. He shows and voices his discontentment while Catherine remains calm as they travel home.
It is on this journey to his home that an usual event takes place which will change their entire lives totally.
I write very simply in fear of giving too much of the plot away.
You will be amazed and you will be taken aback as passions stir and deep feelings are held in check. Consider this a very adult book.
Reviewed by Heather Marshall Negahdar (SUGAR-CANE 07/03/10)