While this book proves to be one of the slower of the Blackwater saga to start, it really gains traction in the last 20% or so. The War highlights shifts in the family dynamic, with the younger girls Miriam and Frances becoming adults and true assets to the Caskey family. Miriam sheds herself of her perpetual coldness towards her family and becomes an essential player at the mill, helping her father immensely while forming a stronger bond with him. On the other hand, Frances is faced with inexplicable challenges that she can only speak with her mother about, as she knows she is the only person who truly understands. Grace and Lucille’s storylines were presented beautifully as well, I loved that these women are truly coming into their own and flourishing as adults, regardless of the opinion of others. McDowell also gives a bit more insight into Elinor’s mysterious state of being that has been passed down to Frances. Overall, while this book was more focused on familial relationships and members of the family maturing and/or settling down, there were still spooky elements, especially towards the end, that kept me on my toes.