Being the daughter of the town whore in the Bible thumping Midwest makes hope for a respectable marriage difficult, even in the enlightened 1930's. So, when Josie sees an advertisement from a man who is seeking a wife, and a mother for his two young children, she believes she has found the answer to her prayers. Carl doesn't really want another wife, but what is a widowed school teacher with two children to do? Should Josie tell Carl about Mama? Will wicked Sly tell all? Will innocence overcome evil?
This book is first and foremost a wonderful story. But more than that it brings to life rural Missouri. The characters are fun and I really look forward to further books in this series.