Based on the true story of a man who, convinced his first wife and children had been murdered during a Maori uprising in New Zealand, immigrates to the United States and eventually remarries. When his first wife is set free, she and her surviving children find their way back to her husband, and he is promptly charged with bigamy. In the end, it will be Henry’s wives, with their keen understanding of what each must endure for the sake of their family, who bring this novel to its rewarding conclusion

Good but frustrating

This book really got our groups emotions going! We all had some strong opinions towards Henry. He is a character we will always remember! The issue of having one wife who you think has died and then re-marrying another; finding out after 7 years that your first wife didn't die but is now standing on your doorstep with your 3 children (who you also thought died)....well....it made for some great discussion and lots of opinions. Lots to discuss regarding, Henry and the two wives, Margaret and Nancy. This book highlights women who become each others support and how adversity can be handled in ways that are best for all.

Nearly all of our members enjoyed this story about Henry Oades, a man who ends up married to two women at the same time. Henry agonized over his first wife Maragaret's death in New Zealand, and set sail for America. After establishing himself in America, he marries another woman (Nancy), and tries to put the past behind him. The past ends up on his doorstep however, when his first wife Margaret(and children) show up expecting to put their family back together.
We had interesting things to dicuss about each of the characters, and also about the tribal culture in New Zealand.