This was such a joyful and life-affirming read!

Annie is abruptly dumped by her boyfriend of ten years. She is devastated and decides to relocate to a small town to teach. While she is adjusting to the picturesque little town and the friendly villagers, she meets a new friend Sophie. Sophie is supremely confident and flamboyant, with a lust for life. Annie embraces the new friendship, but notices that Sophie has a odd relationship with the villagers, who seem almost afraid of her. As Annie adjusts to village life and recovers from the breakup, she begins to realize the truth about her new friend.

I enjoyed reading this novel so much. Annie's gradual transformation from a downtrodden and self-deprecating wallflower to an independent woman who finds her sense of self-worth and joy in life is wonderful to witness. I also love the way the author honours female friendship that is generous and accepting, but is also based on equality and respect. This is a wonderful novel about overcoming disappointment, finding your true self and embracing the possibility in life.

Highly recommended to anyone.