When her mom dies, Jo Jones finds herself the new owner of an estate in England. Everything in her life is changing--newly single, jobless, orphaned, and an immigrant. Further complications arise when there is a murder on her property . . . is she in danger herself? Or is she a suspect? As a neurodivergent person, she doesn't always give the signals people expect. Twists and turns make this an interesting read, and Jo herself is very likeable.
Born in 1776 in Iceland, Thuridur Einarsdottir bucked traditional mores, expectations, and even clothing to pursue her dreams and follow her moral code, unfazed by enemies she might make along the way. She lived out a real-life adventure story, becoming a respected fishing boat captain, trekking across the Icelandic snowdrifts as a guide, and advocating for those less fortunate than most. She was a character, a hero and an inspiration. I was fascinated!
Wayne, the third boy of four, grew up in "the Goulds", a Newfoundland neighborhood many aspired to leave. With parents who were intelligent but flawed and perpetually short on funds, the family was always struggling to stay afloat. Factor in Wayne's mysterious ailment(s)--coughing uncontrollably, unable to keep food down, stunted growth, weakness--and life was even more challenging, especially for him. His quirky grandma, Lucy, was his primary companion, guide and all-around resource for much of his childhood. Funny at times but often frustrating, you keep having to remind yourself that he does, in fact, survive his parents' questionable choices and the childhood that gave him.
