I liked the beginning story as it brought out conflicts between characters.

The story follows several couples it seems through their lives in 1944. You find them in somewhat sure straits like Anna and her husband. Or making ends meet like Dolly and her husband. The bed and breakfast inn was ingenious because it focuses attention on the small group of people in town. The remainder allows you to really get to know them.
By the end of the excerpt, I felt sad for Anna's husband, but hopeful that Anna and Dolly will be friends. It made me want to read to find out.