"Every journey has a few bumps. But this will pass. I want you to feel nothing but excitement. Nothing but joy. But first we have to go through a little discomfort."
Well, I definitely agree with this quote. Nothing is ever easy. Life is a journey for all of us. It's how we chose to take that journey.
This story was a little different than what I expected but I liked it ok.
The setting was different too. I guess each culture has their own ideas of Eden.
Here's another quote;
"Sometimes love makes you do stuff you never dreamed of. Stuff that don't make sense. But you do it anyway. Because not doing it would be like sticking a knife in your own heart."
I know how Hazel feels on that one too. But then, I think we all do when it comes to our kids.
But I think too, fear has a big part in all of this story.
I've never liked Jude. Not even when he was first introduced in the beginning of this story. A cult if I ever saw.
All the more reason I loved Max. She was cool. She sensed things about people like I do.
I'm giving this novel 5 stars for a job well done. I recommend.
My thanks to Netgalley for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

author has a way with words, but I'm even more impressed at the overall concept. The details of Eden Island's cult made it feel like it was real. She really did her research and transported me to the island and immersed me in Jude's strange religion. The resilience of Max and how she overcomed everything and never lost who she was really uplifting. I loved the tender relationship between her and Cash. The ending was so fitting and I walked away feeling content. It's definitely earned a permanent spot on my bookshelf!