Bodies of Water

September 1, 2013

Greenwood's sixth novel (after Breathing Water), a tale of love and loyalty, owes its success to the poetic prose, as well as the compelling chronology she employs. Readers meet 80-year-old Billie, a San Diego resident living a quiet, contented life until she is asked to return to her hometown back East by someone from her past. Although uneasy about this unexpected, unplanned venture, she agrees to go home. The novel then flashes back to years earlier in 1960. Billie is married with two adopted children; her life is far from happy, until a new family arrives in the neighborhood. Billie is drawn to the new neighbor, Eva. Their friendship blossoms, evolving into something deeper. The women attempt to carve out different lives for themselves, but what follows is intricate and tragic. VERDICT This compassionate, insightful look at hope and redemption is a richly textured portrait. This gem of a story is a good choice for those who enjoy family novels.--Andrea Tarr, Corona P.L., CA

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