Loved this book! ( )

This is my first book by T. Greenwood and it most definitely will not be my last! I look so forward to reading more from this author and reading her earlier books. (love the front cover image as pulls on you- to want to learn what is inside this door and family)

The writing quality, the setting, the emotion was spectacular! The character development was excellent and complex. Readers will be drawn from the front cover to the back cover. Appears as though the author is not afraid to tackle certain subjects which is commendable, even though it may be difficult to read at times, like Jodi Picoult, Charles Martin, Lisa Genova, and Amy Hatvany (a fan of all).

Compelling - there is so much to this novel as it goes back and forth from one generation to another. The dynamics of a family with no demonstration of love, or the holding back thereof, and non- expressive-parent who gave up their life early on and is reflective throughout their parenting as they resent being held responsible for their son, and they too are even acting out themselves in all sorts of ways to cope. (Wow, total family dysfunction and drama)!

There are so many aspects to this story which is very realistic to family struggles and obstacles out there today for families which sometimes are often kept quiet and behind the scenes.

Being ignored since birth, Trevor is growing up in a man's body, his mother does not relate with repeated bullying at school with no friends. Unfortunately, he receives no help at school or a home and nowhere to turn. What makes it even worse, he has little control over his emotions.Ah, Grace comes along; the ideal child and younger sister; with all the characters circle around her as she is in the background yet one of the most important. While his parents fight to survive,

Trevor finds solace in a camera as a new way to see the word thru different eyes.There is also a story of Crystal (loved this character;) a high school senior who has given birth to a baby she was forced to give up for adoption and struggling with decisions. Between Kurt, Elsbeth, Trevor and Crystal-- from their voices; their story intertwines, making this a powerful story. GRACE demonstrates how a family can be shattered to bits with sadness, and slowly come out in one piece with hope, sometimes using grief to bind them together.

You will not be able to put this book down, as readers will want to devour every page - Totally amazing, intense, and captivating! Keeps you surprised with every swish of a finger, turning the page to see what is ahead. ( )

I would go 3.5 stars on this. It was a fast read with a plot that carried you right along. The characters were likeable and seemingly well developed. I am not usually one for a nicely wrapped up ending but it suited this book. ( )

Won. Never received. ( )

A star knocked off for the horribly contrived happy ending. If you're going to write about reality, keep it real. The author is a good writer, though. ( )