Lillian grew up in a American Fundamentalist Mormon sect where polygamy is still practiced. When she turned 13 she is said to be a woman and is sent to be the child bride of a Bishop in Canada. The compound is located in the wilderness of British Columbia. There are no neighbors for miles. Lillian is scared of her new "husband" and his first wife. Her sister-wife and the wife recognized by law.
A land developer has decided to purchase the land next to the compound for a ritzy new subdivision. He knows absolutely nothing about the compound next to his idyllic property. When he needs to tell the Bishop about his proposed project he learns the sect's secret. Can he just stay out of their business or does he need to investigate further and protect the children he has seen at the compound? He has some difficult choices to make that could effect so many in Canada but the United States as well.
WOW! What a suspenseful story!! A fabulous read!!
Zeiner has taken her research and constructed a well written novel that will have you sitting straight up in your chair rapidly turning the pages.
One of my former employers is a Mormon, not of a sect the practices polygamy. The staff were members of several religions and unlike most places of work back then we discussed religion openly. Different views were shared and we all learned much of different theology. There were Catholics, Methodists, Seven Day Adventists, and Lutherans. When the company was purchased by a man of Mormon faith from Salt Lake City we were all anxious to learn about the religion. Some of us even were fortunate enough to travel to Salt Lake City and see the temple and learn about Joseph Smith and his teachings. I was familiar with several beliefs shared in this story. Most people today may have watched Big Love on HBO for their knowledge on this Mormon practice.
There have also been several non-fiction accounts by women who have escaped from this horrible practice. It is easier to read this story because we known that while based on fact it is still fiction. It may make you furious in parts, tug at your heartstrings in other places, it may even make you laugh here and there. You will be amazed by the strength of some of the characters. The things these children go through was horrific, but the author was not preachy in her telling of this story. The reader is able to reach their own conclusions.
I believe this is the first title by this author written in English. I hope she writes many more. This book receives my highest recommendation.
