Inspired by true events in World War II Latvia, this emotionally charged novel delves into themes of sacrifice, trauma, resilience, and survival through the experiences of three generations of women. In 1940, Miriam Talan's life is upended as she gives birth to her son, Monya, while the Soviets invade Latvia and occupy Riga. As a Jewish family, the Talans face immediate peril when the Soviets confiscate their possessions, leaving them destitute. Tragedy strikes when the Nazis arrive, killing Miriam's husband, Max, and targeting Jews. To protect her children, Miriam enlists her loyal housekeeper to hide them and conceal their Jewish identity. Decades later in Chicago, Sarah Byrne mourns her mother Ilana's sudden death. At the funeral, Sarah meets her estranged grandmother, Miriam, who reveals shocking family secrets. Desperate for answers, Sarah questions Miriam, but it is only during a hospital stay that Miriam urges her to find the son she left behind in Latvia. With the help of Roger, a charismatic Russian-speaking professor, Sarah embarks on a journey to uncover the past. As she gets closer to the truth, she realizes her quest could have dire consequences. This powerful story explores the lasting impact of war on families and the strength that can be passed through generations.
