This is such a well written book. It tells the story of loyalty, family, and the loss of personhood when you give too much of yourself away. It is in this way that Elise dies, having shed so much of herself for a husband who never truly loved her, and for sons that took her for granted. She ceased to be a person, and left her own dreams and aspirations behind. Elise begrudges Wayland for doing the same to Marley. Forcing her into a marriage, forcing her into motherhood. This book examine the way in which women can lose themselves to the people they have to care for; their husband, their children. I love the way this book explores the concept of the self and what it means and does to a person who has to bury parts of themselves, but also the struggle to regain those parts of themselves. This is seen in Marley finding a purpose outside of her marriage and motherhood, as she takes over the bookkeeping and management of the business. In Shay who learns to accept himself toward the end of the book, and realizes the only way he will feel truly free is by leaving. This is so well written and definitely worth the read