Although much of today’s literature offers snappy, fantastical plots, Torn Threads stands out as an expansive and descriptive historical journey. It follows an unforgettable character through 35 years of emotional, sweeping changes brought about by war and by circumstance. Beginning in pre-war England in 1931, the story chronicles the life of Doreen Bailey, first as she comes to terms with leaving a monastic life. Then, her new pursuits are interrupted by the events of World War II. Her husband enlists in The Royal Navy, and soon their daughter is evacuated to the countryside. Their lives take divergent paths, changing forever. This is an historical narrative that includes real and significant war events, yet the story doesn’t end in 1945. It deftly crosses the ocean and picks up in America, where perhaps the characters face their truest tests of courage and persistence. Their stories will grip you from the beginning and stay in your memory long after finishing the book.