At first I thought this book was set in an alternate universe, like a dystopian novel. But, it’s actually about the life of a teenage girl who is a part of a cult. Not that she knows enough to call it that, it’s the only life she’s ever known. I love the themes of feminism and independence in this book. Miriam is a strong female lead who thinks for herself and forms her own opinions despite what she’s been taught all her life. I think the overall theme of feminism is especially relevant in today’s political climate. Within the cult women are not to speak unless spoken to, and have no control over their bodies once they are married, since their husbands “own” them basically. Given the controversy over women’s rights and women’s health in the US, I think this book is a really important and worthwhile read.