“Annela grew up feeling alone and unwanted. Even worse, she never understood why. Now she has decided to begin a new life based on baptism and obedience to gospel priciples. In her heart, Annela knows that this new path will lead her to the happiness and peace she desires. But shadows from her past keep reappearing, stalling her progress and making her progress and making her ultimate goal seem unreachable. First her boyfriend, Tommi, pledges his love, all the while acting in ways that destroy her faith in him. Then her mother, Helena, keeps a dark secret from her that could change Annela's life forever.”
Annela has decided to join the church. She realizes that she cannot continue living with her boyfriend Tommi and tells her parents that she is getting baptized, hoping that she can move in with them. But her father kicks her out of the house and disowns her. Annela struggles to overcome the problems with her parents, her boyfriend and to take care of herself all the while; refusing to deny what she now knows is true.
This is a good book. I enjoyed the story, and the information I learned about Finland. I was reminded how important it is to look for opportunities to serve others, and how one choice can affect the rest of our lives. Annette Lyon did a great job focusing on elements of forgiveness, service, missionary work, love and choices.
