Grace’s eye met Hannah’s, and they smiled at each other. Life was an endless up-and-down, one thing after another to handle, to fix, to solve, to enjoy, to relish. Grace closed her eyes and silently prayed. Thank you, God, for this lovely day and night, for the comfort you provide when we most need it, and for all your blessings.

Discussion Questions

1. Do you find Amelia changed—kinder, perhaps—since the arrival of Miriam and Sadie? Are you pleased with her metamorphosis? How do you feel about Hannah’s attitude toward Amelia?
2. Are you comfortable with the relationship of Max and Hannah—her going back and forth between the two homes? Could you see yourself living like that?
3. How did you feel about Randy Banks and post-traumatic stress syndrome? Were you pleased with his decision to go to Kentucky when he left the hospital?
4. What was your reaction to May’s behavior regarding Pastor Denny?
5. If you were in Ida’s position, would you have spoken up about your victimization by the scammer? Why or why not?
6. Do you think Max and Zachary could have reached some kind of agreement? Do you think that Zachary would have settled down in Covington if he had ten rental houses? Would you want him to stay, or would you prefer to see Sarina make a life with someone else?
7. Have you ever thought you might enjoy sharing a home with other women? What would you need from them to have that happen?