They find hope where they least expect it

Diagnosed with ALS, fiercely independent Mattie can't navigate her beloved home, she can't go for a boat ride, and she can barely feed herself. Her husband, Don, doesn't want to imagine life without his wife of nearly 50 years, but Mattie isn't likely to make it past their anniversary.

When Rose, Mattie's new caretaker, and her young daughter enter the couple's life, they form a family, and Mattie is finally able to pass on her memories from the hope chest she received from her mother.

Each item-a favorite doll, family dishes, an embroidered apron, an antique Christmas ornament-connects Mattie, Don and Rose, helping them find hope in the face of overwhelming challenges in this story about the unconditional love and support of family.

Review Quotes

"Shipman compellingly depicts the bonds of family, revealing that the moments of trials and tribulations are part of lives filled with hope and faith."-Publishers Weekly

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