This is a beautiful novel about two women – one in her 80s, the other in her 30s – who gradually become friends and offer each other solace by being there for one another, listening quietly, lovingly and with infinite patience. I loved the Scandinavian setting. ( )

Two isolated and very private women begin a friendship and gradually uncover their innermost feelings and and heartbreaking experiences. ( )

Veronika, a young woman in her 30's, comes to stay at a remote farmhouse in Sweden following the death of her lover in New Zealand. Her only neighbor is an odd, reclusive older woman--Astrid. As the year unfolds, a friendship develops between these very dissimilar women and they come to depend on one another for emotional solace and even redemption.

The story is beautifully written and beautifully paced, unfolding with gentle slowness against the seasonal backdrop of Sweden and with a loving attention to detail that makes each page a pleasure to read. It touches on sensitive subjects--suicide, molestation, infanticide--but with a very light touch indeed. The controversial nature of some of the action discussed in the book, and Olsson's unique style would make it a good candidate for book club discussion. ( )

En vakker bok som gjør et sterkt inntrykk på sine lesere ( )

Our book club really enjoyed this book, and it gave us much to discuss. The two main characters are many faceted and very interesting. The writer makes you want to get to know them better. ( )