Overall I enjoyed this book. Some books set a reading pace and I found that it took me longer to read this book than others. That can be a good thing as it makes you slow down and contemplate. Life has a way of simply going along on automatic until something dramatic or tragic happens. A person's true character is often revealed in difficult times and I think these characters were all very inspiring during their darkest times. Not only did they grow as individuals, they also chose to grow as a family unit. This story is a reminder to let down your guard and let people in to see the real you. Flaws, fears, hopes, dreams, etc. All of us are a product of what we've been through.