The title of this book promised so much—something magical, about a woman grappling with an oppressive life in an era where the patriarchy reigned, despite the gains of second-wave feminism. Sadly, the story didn't live up to the expectations. I couldn't even finish it because it felt so dull and uninspiring. The glimpses of her recurring dreams seemed to go nowhere, leaving me frustrated and disconnected. It felt like a missed opportunity—like it had so much potential to go somewhere bold, but ultimately, it didn’t.

Yes, the story touches on the harsh reality of survival in a deeply unjust world, particularly for women, but it didn’t offer much more than that. It was well-written in parts, but the overall tone felt lifeless, and I struggled to care about the character's journey. The magic of surviving just wasn’t enough to keep me engaged, despite the beautiful cover.

although I have asked for this novel several times, it has not ever been delivered to my Kindle. This is not the first I have had trouble with through Netgalley lately, since Kindle changed its ways, but my info with them is all correct and up to date. Perhaps some publishers are not copasetic with the new layout? I've had no difficulty with other sources for my reading materials.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Dromnavarna Press.. Ann Medlock's book is the best I've read this year. If you're a woman, like me, of a certain age, much of what Ann shares with us through her Roman á clef, the compelling character of Lee is going to be familiar. From a time in the not so distant past when women were expected to be a husband's helpmeet, and should be thankful for the role, never striving for more. I cheered for Lee, and I am so thankful for Ann Medlock for writing this book which i wanted to inhale for the beauty of the writing, but wanted to last forever for so many reasons, not least of which was the beauty of the writing. An incredibly smart woman married to a successful man not nearly as smart as his wife - an age old tale too many of us have lived. An extraordinary work, and one I will be gifting to good friends. Bravo, Ms. Medlock, Thank You.