Vikki P. (vikki322) reviewed on 2/4/2007 + 145 more book reviews

Helpful Score: 7

The story is set in the harsh farmlands of Minnesota in the early 20th century. Mary became the wife of Jonathan Gray and took up her life in the Minnesota wheat fields. They lived a quiet, placid, hard-working life working on the farm that Jonathan inherited from his parents. Jonathan's brother Aaron shares farming duties and lives in the house with them, since the house was his inheritance. They seem to have a satisfying life, but after 7 years of marriage, Jonathan and Mary still haven't had a child. Their childlessness starts to cause a strain on the marriage, and Jonathan finally realizes that the mumps he had as a child probably made him sterile. However, he is aware that his brother Aaron was not similarly affected by the disease. He suddenly announces to Mary and Aaron that he would like them to procreate to give him a child. Mary and Aaron are stunned by this news, and a previously happy household becomes strained and filled with unspoken fears and concerns. The relationships between all 3 of them becomes strained.Jonathan leaves for a weekend to purchase a prize bull to start a new herd, and the uneasy relationship between Mary and Aaron ignites into passion. The outcome is predictable, as Mary becomes pregnant immediately, and when she announces it to her husband, no one discusses the fact that the child is Aaron's. Mary is wracked with guilt, and her relationship with Aaron seems beyond repair.Without spoiling the ending, Mary finally learns the true meaning of love and is able to put back together the pieces of her life.
The author does a wonderful job of describing the rhythms of farm life, and the never-ending chores of being a farm wife. Although the role of women in the early 20th century was essentially subservient, Mary is truly a tower of strength and the one who makes the farm work with her never-ending toil. Reading this book will make you thankful for automatic laundry machines, microwaves, supermarkets, convenience foods and all the time-saving features of our lives that we take for granted.

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