Beautiful, moving book about friendship & family

I absolutely loved When the Apricots Bloom and found it to be a beautiful, moving book about love, loss, friendship and family. The vivid descriptions place the reader in Iraq and give glimpses of the beautiful land that it once was for visitors as well as citizens. The story drifts back into the past and present seamlessly and adds to the history of the characters as well as the historical times in which the story takes place. Once I began reading, I couldn't put it down until I finished! The author presents the characters stories in a way that allows the reader to question what they would do if in such a situation, how would they try to protect those they love while maintaining their humanity and morality when faced with choices that are unthinkable. I love how the three women worked together to have a positive outcome for the futures of the children at the end.