Based on a true institution, the Berachah Industrial Home for Erring Girls in Arlington, Texas, the couple who founded the “home” were dedicated individuals. They not only cared about the girls and women but their babies as well. The sense of redemption shared with these individuals who had suffered such horrible situations … being sexually abused, raped, drug abuse, incest, neglect … was touching. The unique focus that encouraged the women to keep their children rather than forcing them to give them up for adoption was refreshing. This is a dual timeline book, but the interesting part is during the time when the home was functioning. It is sad to discover how many young women had to be turned away because there was no room, due to a lack of funds, or the fact that some of them were not “abused” enough to warrant a safe haven. What an emotional read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Crown Publishing Group for my advanced review copy. All opinions and thoughts are my own.