A tale of loss, learning, and new hope. The Direction of the Wind explores cultural differences across continents and how they impact the life of two women. It is a moving story. So much packed into the journeys of these women. A moving look into the human natures our parents possess that we sometimes forget is there.

Lost and alone after the death of her father, Sophie feels even more adrift than she did as the only child in India with a French name. And then she finds out that there are secrets her father couldn’t take to his grave. Her mother didn’t die, she left. Sophie embarks on a journey to find out about herself and her past before her life is set on a path not completely of her own choosing.

I like the format of this book, moving back and forth across timelines allowing the voices of major characters can all be heard. I also appreciated how the author outlined the impact of cultural differences throughout the book and the different timelines as well. It allows you to see the growth and development of the characters in different aspects of their lives.
As someone who has traveled alone to a different country, I felt a kinship with Sophie and Nita as they stepped off the plane into the great unknown full of excitement and a bit of trepidation. The learning curve might have been steep but they rose to meet the challenge.

Trigger warnings for addiction and emotional abuse/manipulation.