This was a really good book to kick off February with. Fiona is an American girl who goes to Belfast to meet the father and brothers she never knew. While there, she meets Danny and quickly befriends him. Little does she know that Danny is from the other side of the wall. Fiona soon discovers the real reason why her mom fled to Madison, her dad’s secret and why Danny may not be the best person for her to be friends with. This was a quick read that I really enjoyed and look forward to learning more about The Troubles. ( )

*I WAS PROVIDED A PHYSICAL COPY IN RETURN FOR AN HONEST REVIEW. THIS DOESN'T AFFECT MY OPINION*

When Sarah pitched me her book to review, I immediately agreed to take it on. I don't think you know how difficult it is to find books centered in countries other than the USA, UK, or some other made up place. Ireland is a part of my family's history, and getting to read a book centered there is like a dream come true.

Fiona is a character I think we'd all be able to relate to if we were forced into the same situation as her. A teenage girl, suddenly finding out that her Irish dad isn't as deadbeat as she thought? Oh, and to add to it, she's got two, older half-brothers with a nephew? I'd be pretty irritated to have had that hidden from me too.

We're thrown into her story as she arrives in Ireland, finally meeting the family she'd only dreamed of having with her. However, this picture perfect dream came to a halting stop after she unveiled some horrifying information about her father.

Danny is a character we can all sympathize for. He lives in an abusive household with people who turn a blind eye. He has big wishes to run off to the army and become a nurse, and that perspective doesn't shift when he meets Fiona.

Their stories merge quickly and smoothly, bringing about love, drama, and forgiveness. Other than one familial misunderstanding feeling a bit forced, the entire novel was great and I loved it. For that, I rate this book 4 stars. I do suggest it, and I can't wait to see what Carlson writes next. ( )

It took me longer than I would have liked to get into it and there were some moments that were a bit overdone, but I read the last 150 pages in one sitting - could not put it down! In the end, it was a very enjoyable and satisfying read. ( )